Thursday, October 30, 2008

Mad Men Season 2 Finale Thoughts and Opinion

I've watched Mad Men on AMC and it is wonderful. Each episode deserves critique and scrutiny unlike any series out there in TV land. The writing is compelling and entirely unique and creative. Love it.

Now, regarding the finale of Season Two: Meditations on an Emergency

SITUATION: Pete and the rifle - I don't believe he'll kill himself. Why off a great character? Besides, when Pete lists the pros and cons in his head, he'll discover he's better off living. He still has options. (versus death which gives one no options...okay only the one... and only once.)

BTW I like what they've done with Pete. Giving him a scene or two to show that he is a person under the plastic falseness of his business persona.

SITUATION: Duck and the Big Deal - I loved that Duck's plans had the one major flaw which certainly jeopardizes a major asset (Don) that is part and parcel of Sterling Cooper Agency. W/O Don, S&C is devalued which puts the deal with the British ad agency in jeopardy since it didn't seem like it was completely finalized (despite what the switchboard lady said). Also puts Don (surprisingly) in possibly a bargaining position. Maybe even Bert and Roger Sterling. Even 'post' deal.

SITUATION: Don and Betty Draper - Betty had her revenge-fling emotionally leveling the playing field between her and Don. With Don's 'baptism' and presumed new commitment to their relationship, plus her own growth, they should have a healthier, more truthful relationship going forward. At least a possibly more pleasant home in which to bring a new baby.

Did you like it, when Betty repeated 'It's not the right time.' at the doctor's, it was kind of a code for 'how can I terminate this pregnancy, options please'. Of course, speaking in vagaries leaves her blameless for openly asking about abortion - still controversial to this day, let alone 45+ years ago.

SITUATION: Joan and the Jerk - My hope is that Joan will NOT marry that idiot. Hopefully she will realize her value and grow a pair and find a more personally satisfying path. Of course, continuing with the marriage and feeling unhappy and trapped is the stuff of drama (see what it did for Don and Betty) so if she gets married, I won't be surprised. Maybe it's just 'cause I like Joan's wry smile and want to see it more.

SITUATION: Harry's Character - Was it just me or did Harry move from likable to very unlikeable in a matter of three or so episodes? What happened? His insecurities show a negativity which is very unattractive. I didn't like when he manhandled the TV. Really - treat your electronics with respect, dude.

SITUATION: Peggy and Father Gill - I did not like Father Gill threatening Peggy with eternal damnation in order to get her to open up. Not a good strategy. When people are pushed, they most likely will push back... not open up. Really showed a lack of maturity on the part of Fr. Gill.

I DID think Peggy was brutally frank and even abrupt with Pete, possibly revealing how much suffering she's left unexpressed. She was like 'I had your kid but gave it away'... peace out cub scout.

SITUATION: Sally and Bobby, the Draper Children - Lastly, maybe Sally and Bobby won't have to spend as many years in therapy as adults, now that Don's home.

By the way, it would be funny if, in the series' last episode, they introduce an Italian neighbor kid who turns out to be the future Tony Soprano, thus linking the two series. I'm just sayin'.

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