COMMUNITY “Political Developments & Uncivil Disobedience” Season 2 Episode 17 – “Folksy yet progressive” Vice President Joe Biden is coming to Greendale, leading to a throw-down between Jeff and Annie in the race for student president in the “Political Developments & Uncivil Disobedience” episode of COMMUNITY.
It was only a matter of time before Community did a full-on political satire episode, and wow, did they do it right. There’s thoughtful debate between Leonard and Magnitude: “Pop pop”/”Thbbt” and insightful commentary from Troy “Buttsoup” Barnes: “Yellow shirt. Hat. Girl.” There is dignity given the proceedings by Dean Pelton in his patriotic ladies’ Uncle Sam costume (too bad Adrianne Palicki was already cast as Wonder Woman because Jim Rash and his pretty legs could have been a contender for the role). We have oh-so serious candidates: “It’s on, Ponce de Leon”/”I’m gonna, Greg Muldunna” Best of all, there is scandal and mudslinging. I could watch Jeff’s 1997 Real World Seattle audition tape a thousand times and not be sick of it. Of course he was a George Michael wannabe. Of freaking course. Say what you will about this or that, I don’t just like the guy, I love him.
Troy and Abed’s Decision Gate is awesome. The candidate profiles are hilarious (Annie-Boobs: yes; Pierce’s mentions both Caligula and BNL; “Hot Wings” Jeff’s “kryptonite” is women’s tears), and their patter is such a perfect parody of election night coverage. In case you missed the fabulous ticker as it scrolled on the bottom, here it is, chock full of previous episode shout-outs:
“Don’t forget to study for classes; Remember to add or drop classes; Band practice cancelled due to-; Star Burns: “My name is Alex;” Human Being mascot offensive to animals: more at 8; Chess club moves meeting unexpectedly. Refuses to reveal why; Basketball team loses ball; Chicken finger shortage continues; Professor Slater still missing; No paintball this spring, claims Dean: full story at 8; School dance rate down 200%; Reports continue of mysterious” air vent monster;” Dean suggests end of year picnic; implies “western theme;” Dr. Ian Duncan quits drinking again; Tickers: Do we watch them? Story at 12″
Is it just me, or does Jeff and Annie’s chemistry seem even more potent than usual? Resolved? I don’t think so. I know Dan Harmon is going to play with the pairings forever, but I’m now fully on the Jeff/Annie ship. They aren’t just adorable together; there is a genuine sweetness and respect between them that is lovely to watch.
Pierce is back from rehab and still essentially evil, but at least Vicky loaned him her pencil. The notches cold open has me rolling, and I love that Troy acknowledges Abed’s secret life. “Do you just constantly have your own side adventures?” Speaking of which, I hope Agent Vohlers comes back because I so want to see her second “date” with Abed.
Favorite lines:
“Eat that, City College, and wash it down with a great big glass of suck it.”
“Oh, Abed, will your reality ever come out on Blu-ray so we can enjoy it?”
“That guy’s a mess. It’s like God spilled a person.”
“I guess I’m used to being the only observer.”
“Well, it’s good to know there’s a floor somewhere.”
“My platform will be one high enough to push Vicki off to her death.”
“I’m sorry you weren’t a more obvious threat to the country.”
“I just had a dream I was a regular president.”
Political satire is tough to pull off, but Community does it hilariously while layering in some terrific character development. I miss Shirley and Britta and I wish there were more follow-up on the Pierce front, but it’s hard to complain when there’s so much goodness packed into the episode.
What did you think of “Political Developments and Uncivil Disobedience?” There is so much going on here that I probably missed at least half of your favorite moments, so please post them in the comments.
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