Chronicles of a Writer

Glee 1×13 ‘Sectionals’

It's clear when show creator Ryan Murphy began Glee, 13 episodes was as far as he could wish for given the risky premise.  Luckily, as the show draws to a temporary end with 'Sectionals', it proves not only to be commercially viable but satisfactory in terms of storytelling as well. The Obstacles The episode proves very cathartic due to the Glee club's obstacles this week.  For one, Quinn's pregnancy secret is finally revealed, although not too graciously by Rachel.  It doesn't paint a goo...

Glee 1×12 ‘Mattress’

In a way, 'Mattress' marks the first episode that we've all been waiting for.  While Glee has been coasting along with its few primary stories thus far, this one really lets the steam out with major revelations. Flipping the Coin When done properly, the redemption moments of a television series can be incredibly rewarding.  For Rachel and Quinn, this episode has given them some much needed reprieve and redeeming, even courageous moments.  While Rachel borders on shrill at every turn, the e...

Glee 1×11 ‘Hairography’

What happens when great moments come at a price?  That seems to be the struggle with Glee as of late.  With great messages and even greater song numbers, sometimes the story just doesn't have the room to make it believable.  Take 'Hairography' as an example... The Sound of Music If the number with the deaf students was standalone (as a music video or something), it would be fantastic and moving.  Sticking it in the middle of an episode of Glee mainly about distractions, however, is a bit o...

Glee 1×10 ‘Ballad’

'Ballad' relates to something all high school kids go through: the crush.  Glee really cements the episode with theme-related ballads and an episode truly dedicated to the characters. Gleefully Delusional While the episode is initiated by a Glee club project, the episode is not about competition, but about the hormonal feelings that teenagers feel when they start to develop feelings beyond their experience.  I know what you're thinking, Quinn, Finn, Puck, Rachel...blah blah blah.  Surprisi...

Glee 1×09 ‘Wheels’

I rarely sweat bullets for a show, but 'Wheel', the latest episode of Glee really had me worried.  Basically an episode dedicated to Artie and the handicap, it could have easily crossed a line that would have viewers in a rage.  Luckily, Glee is still about celebration at heart and successfully conveys its welcome to the underdog in all of us. The Struggle I definitely have an emotional connection to the episode as a whole.  And why not?  Glee is well aware of the insecure outcast inside e...