CHUCK vs. The Broken Heart
March 31, 2009 by SB
SHUT UP! This was such a good episode!
I think I like Chuck best when it’s really funny and punctuated by moments of angst. Lately, it feels like it’s been total angst punctuated by moments of humor, so this ep was a nice return to form for me. There was so much funny stuff, I hardly even know where to start.
The opening scene was incredible—I really thought Chuck was being kidnapped and that hood was scary! And then out of nowhere, badass Casey shows up with a gun and stops them. I loved how he noticed Morgan’s green shoes and made them take their masks off, and THEN realized he still had his gun on him. Obviously, Casey doesn’t need a gun to scare those guys, but his irritation was so funny and I was amused when he turned the hose on them. It was a gun of sorts, at least!
The Buy More guys trying to get into a bachelor party was so perfect that it had to have almost written itself. And Jeff thinking a bachelor party was Xanadu … could anyone else only picture glitter and roller skates? And then of course they wouldn’t know how to act at a bachelor party, with Lester taking pictures (for his SCRAPBOOK! Hee!) and Jeff hiring ugly strippers, including his sister. GOOD LORD. I’d have to say, though, my favorite Jeffster moment was when Lester told Chuck that the world did not revolve around him, it revolved around the sun, and Jeff said, “Astrology snap!” It was so dumb but so funny and I laughed REALLY hard.
I’m glad that Ellie and Awesome’s engagement is progressing at a normal rate and that they’re not just in engagement limbo the way some TV couples are. I love Awesome and I thought he was so sweet when he was trying to not get violated by the CIA stripper. I always like when Awesome gets brought into stories. I find myself not so much liking Ellie, though, and that was probably my one real beef with this episode. Of course, she’s like mothering almost to the point of nagging, and all she does is dispense motherly advice and motherly concern, which gets old and boring, but I think the real reason she doesn’t do anything for me is because she does absolutely nothing for this show on her own. Everything they show of her is her worrying about Chuck or her being annoyed at Awesome. It’s like she has no life and no personality outside of those characters, and they could get rid of her and I probably wouldn’t even notice. And I don’t think that’s the actress’ fault—she’s good and does what she can, but I truly think it’s a writing issue. I’m hoping Ellie gets some better material with the appearance of the dad, and I don’t think she’s too far gone to make interesting. I mean, look at the miracle they performed with Morgan! I just want more from her.
Tricia Helfer was great—she was every bit as magical as I knew she could be, and part of me wishes she could be around longer, but I don’t feel like anything is getting cut short by her one episode arc. I did love how she’s a 49B, which reminded me of her being Six on BSG (because it’s numbers, in case you weren’t following on my train of thought). It’s just amazing to me how superhumanly gorgeous one person can actually be, and I felt like they were really trying to make her more plain with the light brown hair and ponytail. But there’s just not much you can do to disguise the magic of her hotness.
Obviously, this fact was not lost on Casey. Chuck nailed it by saying that they’re a match made in a very scary part of heaven. When she was all irritated and said she was going to clean her weapons, Casey made a face that can only be described as, “I’ll be in my bunk.” (That’s a shout out for you, Firefly fans!) And that weapon cleaning scene was so funny and gross, with the completely unsubtle innuendo. And when she walked in as a naughty cop … Casey was every bit as much of a geek as Jeffster.
I also thought it was a good week for the Chuck and Sarah relationship. I liked that little surveillance montage where Chuck confesses his feelings to Sarah, because I felt like it was a nod to the fans that yes, this conversation has been had OFTEN. I do have to say, though, I feel kind of weird about the total lack of privacy. If I think about it too much, it makes me really uncomfortable, actually.
I loved how Chuck couldn’t talk about his feelings with Sarah so he tried it on Casey, which was both funny and managed to shed some light on how much he DOES talk to her, since I think it can be kind of easy to forget that with all that happens on the show. She was great when she was trying to be professional for her evaluation, and I loved how Casey said she’s the best partner he’s ever had. I think that, beyond the yucky love stuff with Chuck, the show did a good job this week of demonstrating what a good team Chuck, Casey, and Sarah really are.
On a sidenote, but it must be mentioned—I LOVED Chuck and the bad guy getting high on nitrous together and giggling about how ladybugs can’t all be ladies. That whole scene was so funny and perfect.
Back to Sarah (since I laugh in your FACE, chronological order!), how hot was she in her little Porsche convertible? Billy says that this is why our government is in so much debt, but I think the real crime would be NOT having her driving such a hot little car.
Chuck’s dad’s trailer looked just like the perfect little hideout for someone not really wanting to be found, and I liked how he was so nervous to knock on the door and the way Sarah said, “It’ll be good to see him,” was just so sweet and girlfriendy. I just thought that was a nice scene all around, with the acting and with the look and feel of it. And, as always, more great music in this episode. Seriously, if you’re not doing it, I recommend going to the NBC website and looking up the music. They have little links right under the songs that will take you directly to the song on iTunes. You guys know how lazy I am about looking anything up on my own, and this makes it painless enough that even I can manage.
So, I can’t wait to hear what everyone thought! Did you love this episode as much as I did? Would you possibly even say it was Xanadu? Discuss!
SB has many interests, including photography, her pets, entertainment, traveling and writing. She does have a day job, but that mostly amounts to her being a sarcastic young woman with a lot of time on her hands, which is why she appreciates the opportunity to recap.
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I disagree with the comment “Billy says that this is why our government is in so much debt…”.
People like her, the ones that bust their buts for the country SHOULD have these nice things. It’s the moron congress-critters that aren’t worth the time or money we put into them Those are the ones that shouldn’t be driving around like that.
Just MHO. 🙂
Wow! I LOVE your recaps. The are AWESOME!! This episode was great. The whole thing with Casey and the 49B girl was amazing. I loved how they said the same things and you could tell he thought she was super hot. But then when it came down to it, even though she was probably his perfect fantasy woman, he didn’t mind standing up for Sarah and saying what a great partner she was and that he thought she did a good job. I love Casey. The girl’s whole stripper scene – the faces Jeff and Lester made. Not to mention Casey. it was perfect. Loved the laughing gas, too. I see what you’re saying about Ellie but I felt bad for her in a lot of ways. If i saw an obviously drunk soon to be husband of mine all over that hot CIA chic, I would be in some kind of a depressed state.
Also, at the very end at the trailer when it was like he wasn’t going to open the door, I thought they were going to kiss. I mean I could’ve sworn the door was not going to be answered and they were going to kiss way off here in the middle of nowhere where no cameras or watching. But then the daddy opened the door.
And in relation to the dad – on the previews for next week, I could totally see how Chuck and Scott Bakula could be father and son. Absolutely perfect.
Thank you so much for the recap. I repeat AWESOME job. i find myself looking forward to your recaps all day on Tuesday.
Thanks, Becky! You are super sweet. I totally agree about Scott Bakula and Chuck. And don’t get me wrong, I think Ellie was justified in being pissed, I’m just saying I wish they’d do something else with her character. But, who knows? This could be a good jumping off point for an interesting story or some character growth for her.
SB – shut up i loved it too!!!! (and you do write an awesome recap) The best for me was Casey sticking up for Sarah even though his libido would no doubt prefer further exploration of Tricia 🙂 My only complaint is that the trailer for next week gave it away. I like to be unspoiled and that hurt – why did I watch that I ask myself. The best Ellie moment was when she was behind Morgan and he sniffs the air and talks about sugar cookies but realizes it’s Ellie before he turns around, so cute. Other random funness, the general appearing on Chuck’s monitor everytime awesome says Carmichael. Last random thought, Chuck was so going in for a kiss when the trailer door opened.
Question – do we still think the dad is Orion?
Love Love LOVED this episode. It was Chuck at it’s finest. And I promise you, SB, based on what was shown at ComicCon, Ellie does get more character once she sees her father again. The scene where she first sees him again is just heartbreaking (as I remember it from all those months ago :D)
And yes, I’m still of the frame of mind that Daddy Bartowski is Orion. I mean, how much more under-the-radar could you get than that tin box?
Also, the foreshadowing of Awesome discovering Chuck’s secret was started REALLY nicely in this episode. It has not yet been leaked which close person to Chuck will discover his secret but I’m thinking it will be Awesome. Especially given what he witnessed before he lots complete consciousness. Thoughts?
Overall, Chuck perfection this week. I never wanted it to end. EVER. Can’t next Monday come any faster??????
SHUT UP – I loved your review. SB, it’s so funny how often I’m thinking of you while watching CHUCK..especially during Casey scenes. I’m often jealous that you are writing the reviews but you’re so great that I wouldn’t change it for anything.
I was a sucker for the Chuck and Sarah moment at the end when they were doing the lean in. Damn you Scott Bakula!
Another great episode of CHUCK. NBC please just pick up the show already.
Love the romantic tension and humor on Chuck? Check out more lust and quick wit in Josh Schwartz’s new online series:
Will Hunter finally get somewhere with Callie? Watch new episodes of “Rockville CA” and find out – http://www.rockvilleca.com
I almost forgot:
*falls to the ground and worships SB for not only making a Firefly reference, but a completely relevant and amazing Firefly reference that P D though of herself while watching*
…ok, glad that’s over with now ^^
This was the first episode I’ve watched of Chuck, even though I’ve heard nothing but praise for it….I’ve got no good excuses for not watching before now, but I can tell you I will be squeezing it into my already overburdened schedule, now that Battlestar Galactica is gone (sob!) Even knowing the premise the episode had me in tears from laughing, and I agree that when Chuck’s moments of seriousness, near anger, and nervousness matched up well with the funny moments like the ugly strippers and the nitrous fueled ending. And I cannot get enough of Buy More and the Nerd Herd! Hilarious!
Wally – YES!! What made you decide to watch tonight? So glad you are on board. Please spread the word.
Ha ha … great episode, so no shutting up required! This episode made me giggle a whole bunch too, especially at Casey – and his “connection” with 49B. I love Casey and the faces he pulls.
I also enjoy when Ellie and Awesome are pulled in, but it makes my tummy sick when they’re fighting, or rather, when Ellie is overreacting and being annoyed with Awesome. It’s okay, though, I know things will work out for the best.
The ending with Chuck/Sarah and the leaning in … MMM! Stupid long-lost father, ruining that moment.
I wonder if Casey standing up for Sarah and Chuck at the end came from him realizing how emotions/attraction on the job can be a real thing to contend with. He and Alex basically missed Chuck being kidnapped because they were making eyes at each other (can we guess even more?) while cleaning their guns.
I think that was a critical moment for Casey in understanding how skilled Sarah is to balance her job and her feelings well and that led to him siding with her and Chuck at the end.
Also a couple thoughts on pop culture references since I know the writers like to sneak stuff in. Alexandra Forrest’s first certificate (in Chuck’s flash on her) was issued on the sixth day of 2006, authorized on 16th of January in 1969. Her Canadian passport has six zeros after the first two numbers add up to six. The Weapon’s Certification File ID adds up to 46 – ending in six. The target that is shot has holes between 5 and 7. (albeit eight of them, in the seven ring). After Beckman tells Chuck about the 49-B, she signs off at 2:22, or a total of six.
I’m sure lots of number tricks could come up with other sixes, which doesn’t necessarily prove the writers intentions. But, I like to think they were giving a nod to Tricia Helfer’s Number Six with at least one of those. That’s just a lot of sixes.
I’m loving the rotating programming book on the shelf behind Chuck’s bed. Last week was Perl, and this week is XSLT. I didn’t notice them in past episodes, but I’m watching for them now.
HA! I love you guys so much–I swear, the discussions in the comment thread are probably my favorite part of the recaps. 🙂
Lisa–I still definitely think it’s possible for Chuck’s dad to be Orion. At any rate, I’m sure he’s not “just Chuck’s dad”, being that it’s Chuck, you know. 🙂
Oh, Kath! Thanks for letting me hog one of your favorites! Billy and I were talking in the car last night about how we really want it to get a pick up because it’s become one of our favorite shows. We watch a good amount of TV and a lot of it is AWESOME TV, so that’s a big deal. (Also, sidenote, I posted a pic of Billy on my latest blog post if anyone wants to go sneak a peek.)
PD, I’m glad there will be some Ellie goodness to look forward to and also totally jealous you went to Comic Con. I’ll make it out one of these days! And I’m so glad you brought up the beginnings of Awesome finding out about the secret–that was such a *gasp* moment. I want it to happen. AND I’m glad that you loved the Firefly reference! I hoped someone would, and I should’ve known it would be you with your sweet gravatar!
Wally! If you come back next week for the Chevy Chase episode, I’ll try to work in a Wally World reference, but you have to agree to it in advance. 🙂 Also, it probably won’t be very smooth, because smooth is NOT how I roll. I am, however, excited that we’ve got a new viewer/friend!
Kimber–I also love the Casey faces, and it’s funny because I still find myself calling him Cop Face a lot. That one really stuck with me. 🙂
JW, GREAT CATCH. That many sixes can’t be a coincidence, or if it is, I’m just impressed with you “Beautiful Mind” skills. But seriously, way to watch the background! There’s always so much going on in the forefront that I’m sure I miss tons of stuff going on in the background. You’re a champ! And great thoughts about Casey becoming more sympathetic to on-the-job attraction. Of course, since he hates discussing feelings, chances are we’ll never know. 🙂
I don’t know if it’s okay to mention another blog, but on http://www.deadlinehollywooddaily.com, there is a posting called “Will ‘My Name Is Earl’ Jump To Fox” that has a comment thread that seems to focus mostly on NBC renewing Chuck. There are like a billion different scenarios about how to change the schedule to save Chuck in order to best showcase it. It’s very uplifting if you want to check it out and renew your hopes until we get news from NBC. :O)
Courtesy of TV By the Numbers, here is a quick snapshot of Chuck’s ratings performance vs. Heroes, which seems to have a promotional budget that is 10 times higher than the Buy More crew. (Repeats were excluded from comparison)
March 23-29, 2009 Total Viewers HH Rating HH Share
Heroes 6,472 MM 4.0 6
Chuck 6,156 MM 3.7 6
March 9-15, 2009 Total Viewers HH Rating HH Share
Heroes 6,699 MM 4.2 6
Chuck 5,796 MM 3.5 5
March 2-8, 2009 Total Viewers HH Rating HH Share
Heroes 7,154 MM 4.5 6
Chuck 6,657 MM 4.0 6
Considering the exceptionally high budget for Heroes, shouldn’t that be the show on the bubble for renewal? Just a thought…
Erik–Chuck has a promotional budget? I wasn’t aware! Seriously, though, that’s good for comparison and so true. I don’t know how NBC manages to get such good shows and eff them over so thoroughly over and over and over.
Kath–I checked out that thread and I agree. I’ve always thought Chuck would go great on Thursday nights. It fights right in, and now that we’ve got the buzzkill of ER off our backs …