This week’s episode of Community educated us on the serious reality of what it’s like to live with changnesia—you know, that made up/totally legitimate neurological issue that Kevin/Chang has going on? I know, my head’s spinning too.
The gears start turning when Abed decides to film a documentary in Greendale’s effort to plea to the MacGuffin Neurological Institute for a grant to fight changnesia. Does this mean viewers finally got some answers regarding the Kevin/Chang plot line? Five things from this week:
1) “What are you having?” “None of this!”
This week threw a lot of Chang/Kevin and Jeff stand-offs our way and each one succeeded in delivered in terms of providing hilarious confrontations. From witty word play (“Welcome to Shirley’s Sandwiches where the sandwiches are Kevin-ly!”) down to Chang pulling a Rain Man and reciting a conversation Jeff and Shirley had within earshot verbatim to prove a point. The writing this week in general was pretty fantastic and everyone from the writers to the cast brought their comedic A-game.
Honourable mentions:
“We got ‘em; hook, line and Winger!”
“This needs to be the Hoop Dreams of things people care about!”
2) DAMN IT, BRITTA!
She really does manage to ruin everything. Actually though. The camera stops rolling and fades to black. The scene we see is Shirley in tears, admitting she had “never told that story to anyone before”, asks if the “song was too much” and then walks away, announcing she was dead for three minutes. I’m sorry… WHAT?! Back up!
Britta was supposed to be filming the scene the whole time, but she Britta’ed it up and forced us to miss what could have been one of the best Shirley moments in Community history. To be fair, choosing not to show the scene could really be what makes it so funny; it’s just something about Britta that makes me blame her for everything anyway. That and I’d kill to see literally everything Yvette Nicole Brown said occurred when the camera wasn’t rolling.
3) Partner and Hoolihan.
On this week’s episode, the gang got weird.
It was a milestone for the series as the study group spent Thanksgiving with the family. Jeff finally meets with his father (with Britta tagging along, of course) while the rest of the group spent the holiday at Shirley’s. It was an episode that would have made more sense if it had aired on the scheduled October date and which felt like the darker timeline Abed predicted back in season three.
This week’s guest stars alone may just be what it took to turn the season’s record of disappointing episodes, but even the writing was remarkably better. The slight nod to the Shawshank Redemption was subtle enough to bring us back to seasons one and two style writing and served as a reminder of just how great the show is at doing this kind of thing. Well boys, it looks like we’re finally getting back in the Community groove!
Here are five things from this week, Shawshank style:
1. James Brolin.
Finally, FINALLY the show utilizes the talent that comes to them in a celebrity guest star as Brolin joins the cast as Jeff’s father. Though he has some entertaining lines, his character had a more serious tone. Having a character/actor keep an appropriate tone for the story line isn’t something we’re used to seeing from the show (even with more serious plot lines) and it was refreshing and extremely well done. Brolin’s ability to keep a straight face while informing Jeff that he had nothing to worry about in the bedroom when he got older made him the perfect Papa Winger. It’s safe to say that this week’s guest appearance was a home run for the series.
2. “He’ a Schwarzenegger; I’m a DeVito! I get it!” Read more…
I want to be able to say that Community is getting better—but it isn’t. The only thing keeping me tuning in is the hope that, hey, we’re only four episodes in. There’s plenty of time to turn the season around. That and the fact that show is clearly fighting with everything they have to survive. While the actors and writers are still trying their best, it’s just not working. Usually Danny Pudi or Donald Glover will have lines or a scene that will stand out and save the show for me, but even this week their efforts (and there were a few hilarious moments! – “It’s like a Darren Aronofsky film…”) couldn’t revive this episode.
If you didn’t catch it, here are the five things that happened this week:
1. They’re baaaaack. The Germans, that is.
Remember way back to season two when Jeff and Shirley battle royal-ed for the rights to the foosball table? Yeah. Those guys. The lackluster antagonists return this week to attempt to steal the study room. The best part about this? All the German puns at the writers’ disposal. The bad? They didn’t even bring back Nick Kroll! He was the best one! Although well done to his replacement for the manic evil laughter during history class.
2. Oktoberfest.
In a Hogan’s Hero-style ruse attempt, the group foils the German’s by planning a fake Oktoberfest on campus. It was entertaining for multiple reasons as it referenced a number of German stereotypes. The best part of the scene, though, is when one of the Germans blatantly motorboats a couple of the 99 red balloons in the background. Oh yeah, that happened. It’s right after Jeff says “Ruse? No Ruse!” at 13:08 minutes in. Check it.
3. “It turns out, we’re the Germans.” Read more…
By Meg O’Connell
I had really hoped going into this season of Community that Dan Harmon’s absence would go unnoticed, as if the whole ordeal never happened. I’ve found so far that I’ve been wrong. It just feels different. So far this season (and yes, we’re only three episodes in) it feels like the show has either tried too hard or has fallen a little short.
Here are a few things that did and didn’t work this week.
1. Troy and Britta
Nope. Having none of it. It may be just that Britta has rubbed me the wrong way since the first season; it could be my undying and eternal love for Childish Gambino—er, Donald Glover…Troy. I just don’t feel the chemistry there at all. The episode opening with them in bed together killed me (as I’m sure it did many a woman across their viewership). Long story short, the only upside to this entire situation was Troy’s (however brief) shirtless o’clock moment. Thaaaank youuuu!
2. Getting a bit closer to a Community/Inspector Spacetime/Dr. Who crossover episode: YES
This episode may have been the biggest tease yet. I figured surely, at an Inspector Space Time convention we’d have at least a walk-on moment circa Abed in Cougar Town, but no such luck. I continue to believe that one day it will happen and that this episode was a giant step forward in that direction. Maybe. Please?
3. Famous faces that did make an appearance this week: yes-ish Read more…
If Community’s blooper reels are any indication, Alison Brie loves to freestyle every now and then. The set seems to be musical hot bed as Brie’s co-stars, Donald Glover (or as you may know him by his alter ego, Childish Gambino) and Danny Pudi, made up the Spanish rap from season one.
Brie showed off her amateur skills last night on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon where she rapped about Community. She also dished that the first time she dropped a rhyme in public, she got a little assistance from The Roots’ Questlove. Not bad, Brie. Not bad.
Ladies and gentlemen, may I proudly remind you that asides from being February 7th, it is also October 19th, a.k.a. the return of Community.
Contrary to my own beliefs, Community is not the most popular sitcom on television ratings-wise but neither was Tina Fey’s brain child 30 Rock and 30 Rock went on to win multiple awards before it ended its run in January.
While Community did not get the accolades it deserves, it does have a small and loyal fan base that revels in the show’s absurdity, meta-ness and sharp writing. I’d even like to argue that the balance between the weird, intelligence and heart is what makes the show so great. Case in point: using a campus-wide pillow war to illustrate a low point between two friends.
The show’s creator, Dan Harmon, might’ve been ousted unceremoniously last summer but us hardcore Community fans hope that the show’s longtime writers can stay true to the show’s roots. Just judging from the teasers they’ve thrown out so far, it seems like it has.
But just in case you’re still not convinced to tune in, here are just some exceptional reasons as to start watching Community:
1. The cast
Everyone in this cast is funny in their own right but they’re also very good at playing off at each other. The chemistry that exists between all the characters has resulted in the show’s family-like dynamic. I should also mention that Dean Pelton, a.k.a. Jim Rash, is an Oscar winner and the first to jump on the Angelina Jolie leg-bomb phenomena, and Troy Barnes is indeed Donald Glover a.k.a. Childish Gambino.
2. Pop culture references
While it’s definitely possible to watch the show without having to understand all the references, it does help to enhance the experience. In fact, some of the best episodes have stemmed from these pop cultural references. I mean, what other TV show would use Dungeons and Dragons to drive the whole plot? Or have a Quentin Tarantino-esque paint ball episode in the first season? The answer: no one.
And if that doesn’t compel you, tonight’s episode is called “The Hunger Dean.” Interested now? Go watch.
3. Classes we wished were real Read more…
Yes, there is such a show called Hip Hop Squares and it premiered last night on MTV2. It’s like Hollywood Squares but instead of minor TV stars it features rap legends.
Last night’s panel included Fat Joe, DJ Khaled, Kat Graham, Donnell Rawlings, Tech N9ne, Ghostface Killah, Childish Gambino, Mac Miller, and MGK. Ummm, yea, that’s all. Just everyone.
Childish Gambino was the standout of the night, correctly answering a dirty question about the Olympics. He quickly identified the “snatch” and the “clean and jerk” as weight-lifting moves (get your mind out of the gutter).
If I was a contestant on the show I’d definitely pick Donald Glover, considering he’s a comedian, actor and pop culture nerd on top of being Childish Gambino. Who’d you choose?
Childish Gambino:
Mac Miller: Read more…
In the world of celebrity news, there’s no shortage of hits and misses. This week, The Hunger Games’ Jennifer Lawrence makes our “hit list” for a cute photo of her with her beau. Lindsay Lohan sadly fell short, as her alleged hit and run is anything but a hit.
HITS
Sofia Vergara lands SNL hosting gig
Modern Family‘s male fans are probably too distracted by her hot bod to try to decipher her accent (“chesh?!”). I, on the other hand, love her for her comedic chops as the naggy, but strong, Gloria. Expect skits that lovingly poke fun at her accent and breasts.
The Hunger Games’ Jennifer Lawrence and Nicholas Hoult caught kissing
In my head, I saw Skins star Kaya Scodelario as the perfect Katniss. Eventually though, Jennifer Lawrence’s charm won my heart, not to mention the heart of Scodelario’s former co-star, Nicholas Hoult. While they’ve kept their relationship under wraps, I wouldn’t mind seeing Hoult escort Lawrence down the Hunger Games red carpet. She looks hot in gold, TAKE SOME PRIDE IN THAT.
One Direction will get their own show on Nickelodeon
To my sister and every One Directioner’s delight, Nickelodeon confirmed via Twitter that the members of this boy band are getting their own show. They may be cute and British, but their pop tunes make me want to punch something cute. I’m sure they’ll be great for some wholesome family entertainment but just remember ladies, keep your stalking friendly.
MISSES
Childish Gambino aka Donald Glover postpones rap tour
Glover fractured his foot while performing in Florida and moved his Camp tour back. If anyone can’t make the Toronto show, please forward your tickets to me. I’d be happy to take them off your hands.
The younger Franco did a strange photoshoot for Complex Magazine
Dave Franco, aka younger brother of James, thought an 80s-themed photoshoot for the hip hop magazine was a good idea. I can’t decide what’s stranger: this or the Funny or Die video where he has sex with himself. I think you should fire your agent because the Internet never forgets.
Lindsay Lohan accused of hit and run
While on LiLo patrol, TMZ reports the star hit a hookah lounge manager with her Porsche early Wednesday morning in L.A. While the manager wasn’t hurt, he apparently plans to press charges. At least give her a chance at a comeback! She didn’t go back to red hair for nothing!
Actor-turned-rapper Childish Gambino has dropped the heavily anticipated clip for “Heartbeat” from his debut LP Camp.
“I thought the best way to convey the feeling that’s in the song was to be confused ourselves,” Glover told MTV about the Kyle Newacheck directed video. The two had previously worked together on an episode of Community back in 2009. ”I wouldn’t say it’s so much a video as much as it is just a mood.”
Whatever the case, it’s bringing back those Drive-like urges to buy a Scorpion jacket and driving gloves.
When “Community” was pulled off the air by NBC last month, couch potatoes everywhere where left in ruins.
Donald Glover, who plays Troy Barnes on the show can identify with these aforementioned couch potatoes. No “Community” means no job, which means no money, which means back on his mom’s couch.
The actor/comedian/rapper filmed a witty public service announcement, asking viewers to help bring back his beloved show.
“People have stopped laughing, bees have stopped making honey. NO one’s died in 48 hours. Everyone’s at a stand-still,” he said, asking people to contact their governors in order to get the show back on the air.
It seems like we report about a celebrity going ballistic on the popular social media website at least once a day. Here at andPOP, we consider it a slow news day if 50 cent hasn’t yelled at someone or Kanye West hasn’t tweeted in all capital letters.
It’s a somewhat slow week for Twitter fights because most stars are busy Christmas shopping or planning their holiday getaway. The good ol’ folks at BuzzFeed have compiled a list of the best celebrity tweets this year, to keep us entertained until Ashton Kutcher comes back online.
We’ve picked our favourite ones. If you have any ones you thought were funny, please let us know!
While I’m happy for the single Bradley Cooper who can now use this title to pick up chicks, I’m a bit disappointed People Magazine shunned a few of my favourite male celebrities from the number one spot.
Here is a countdown of the top 5 dapper dudes who should have worn the crown instead.
5. James Franco
He’s not only an actor but a producer, director, performance artist, University student, author, painter and my future husband. James is the jack of all trades and that’s what makes him sexy.
4. Bruno Mars
The R&B singer has an exotic look about him. He’s won a bunch of Grammys and the hearts of just about every girl on the planet. After all, this is the guy who would catch grenades for you.
3. Ryan Gosling
Gosling is our generation’s George Clooney. He’s in every movie (in every woman’s bedroom too!) and gets nominated for everything. I think next year, the Academy is giving him an award for breathing.
2. Donald Glover
The most attractive thing about him is his sense of humor. Donald started out writing for The Daily Show with John Stewart and Tina Fey’s show 30 Rock.Just as we were starting to fall for his cute nerd shtick on Community, he goes and creates a rapping alter ego, Childish Gambino. Donald proves you can be both a major nerd and a total badass at the same time.
1. Matthew Gray Gubler
Easily the best thing to look at when you watch Criminal Minds. Matthew plays a complete genius on the show and I’d like to think he is one in real life too. He can whisper sweet excerpts from the encyclopedia to me any day!
Donald Glover has done it again, but this time on the music scene!
This man is truly the definition of “Jack of all Trades”. You may recognize this talented powerhouse as Troy from NBC’s Community. If not, you’ve probably seen his hilarious comedic genius in Derrick Comedy sketches on YouTube. If none of those ring a bell, then you most definitely know him as Childish Gambino, the rap artist extraordinaire.
Childish Gambino first made his mark with the instant sensation “Freaks and Geeks” 2 years ago, which showcased his oh-so-clever lyrics and contagious beats. If you thought that was a catchy song, just wait until you hear his rhythmic genius in his new video “Bonfire”.
As is the story for all great names, Childish Gambino first adopted the persona when the “Wu Tang Clan name generator” first suggested it. Ever since, the name stuck. Since his musical debut in 2008 with the album “Sick Boi”, Childish Gambino’s most notable quality is the relentless ability to make relevant and rhythmic lyrics. If you can catch it, in Bonfire he raps about the Human Centipede! Now that’s talent.
Childish Gambino’s debut album ‘Camp’ will be released on November 15, but in the mean time, enjoy “Bonfire”!
