Community: Season 6, Episode 4: Queer Studies and Advanced Waxing
I love how this show so happily plays with stereotypes and social taboos. You know that every time the school board guys show up, something equal parts ridiculous and offensive is about to happen. This time it was the Dean’s sexuality that was FINALLY put into question. Everyone has pretty much assumed he’s gay, but its never been clear as to what he wants from Jeff.
Does he want a romantic relationship or friendship? What’s the obsession about? The closest thing we’ve gotten to an explanation is Vice Dean Laybourne referring to him as a “Pansexual Imp.” In this episode he says that gay doesn’t even begin to cover it and it’s only about two sevenths of his attractions.
It’s just amazing how much the writers of this show can cram into a single twenty two minute episode. There were three plots that all converged as one in the end. The second biggest one was Chang’s foray into theatre. Every time I see Jason Mantzoukas in anything I find myself holding my sides soon after. He was awesome as Chang’s acting teacher/director.
He was as harsh as he saw fit and surprised Annie with a ton of truth. His harsh treatment did bring out the best in Chang, which was his intention. His cutdown was among the best in history. “You waste of a soul-shaped hole, forgotten by God,” ended what is now second only to the quiz bowl cutdown from “Billy Madison.” It was very interesting to see the group show so much support for Chang who really made them proud for once.
Then came the side story with Abed and Elroy who became the new “IT lady.” Their quest to save the baby birds was admirable if a bit depressing. Two out of three of the birds died, but at least they managed to hatch and raise the third one.
Newcomers Elroy and Franky are fitting in very well with the rest of the cast. The group dynamic is as strong as ever. As long as this show continues to present unique and interesting stories and world views I’m in for the long haul. Six seasons, a movie and beyond!
Jonathan Thomas Jones is a speculative fiction author and founder of geekhavenreviews.com. He has been passionate about all things geek for his entire life. See more about him at jonathanthomasjones.com and follow him on twitter @jtgloryjones.
