Guy on the left was NOT in the pilot.. awkward
Attention: Spoiler Alert
To start, I am fairly certain that Damon Wayans Jr. is not the only similarity that this show has to Happy Endings on ABC. It appears throughout the episode that they may actually share a set, some editors and possibly even a few writers.
Let’s just say that I spent 97% of this episode experiencing extreme Second Hand Embarrassment, but I’m pretty sure that is the intent of this completely bizarre television show.. so mission accomplished?
Zooey Deschanel literally brings a new meaning to the definition of awkward, one that surpasses normal expectations. Her character is supposed to be a quirky loser who just got dumped, but she didn’t need to be so over the top that the audience is in physical agony as she sings her thoughts, attempts to pole dance on a tree, showers in a one-piece, and tries to pick up guys in visible granny panties by calling them “sailor,” repeatedly.
Then there’s the issue of the confusing NOT gay roommate. Yeah… I’m not really sure… He could potentially be coming out in later episodes, but as of now, his awkwardly douchey being is just confusing. I had a hard time focusing on anything but his wardrobe while other things were going on starting with the TIGHT light blue v-neck sweater, followed by what I’m pretty sure were a pair of WOMEN’S running shorts (I actually think I own those), then that bright pink tie with the light pink shirt (at least the writer’s had the good nature of making fun of it during one scene) and ending with that awful “western” costume, although no one else besides the girl dressed as an Indian with the boobs was in such an obvious costume for the questionably themed party. Also, did the director of this episode happen to see the actors before shooting? I ask this because it seems that they could have sent this character to the tanning salon a few times before having him remove his shirt over and over again.
I liked Coach, too bad he’s leaving due to first commitment on another show (FYI he will be replaced (in an awkward fashion I’m sure) with a different black actor). I question his name being Coach…that seems like a lazy decision on the behalf the writers who seemed to stop thinking through numerous ideas throughout the show.
Third roommate, another recently dumped oddball seems to mature a bit throughout the episode and I don’t hate him, however I wonder if his stylist knew that there were other options besides that maroon zip up hoodie for the first half of the episode.
Still don’t really know any of their names, except Jess (Zooey) because of her awkward theme song that is forever branded in my brain (interestingly enough it’s also the theme song.. somebody must have wanted to save some money there).
Bonus points for the “Douche Jar,” that might be an addition to my apartment soon.
Also in closing, beware of the flashback to Jess’s teen years, I’m still trying to forget it.
Stay tuned for updates on this show as I am anxiously waiting to see how many more ways they can make me cringe.
Wait, seriously. Who OK'd this? 