Author: Clara Bush

Clara Bush is a grammar nerd, social media specialist, and couch potato. She'll curl up with Netflix and a homemade dessert any day.

Winter TV 2016: Try NBC’s ‘Superstore,’ skip Fox’s ‘Bordertown’

This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on Jan. 27, 2016.

It’s winter, also known as hibernation time, especially in the Midwest.

But this winter, it might be better to catch up on old series than watching the latest crop of TV shows.

Here is my roundup on some of TV’s winter 2016 shows:

 

‘COOPER BARRETT’S GUIDE TO SURVIVING LIFE’

8:30 p.m. Sundays on Fox

Cooper Barrett is 26. And doesn’t have a clue what he’s doing. But that’s normal, right?

As someone in their 20s, I’d say yes. But that doesn’t mean I found this comedy relatable.

I use comedy loosely, as I laughed out loud only once. At a pig.

The pilot seems far-fetched and boring, but maybe there’s hope for this comedy. Maybe.

Grade: B

‘TELENOVELA’

8:30 p.m. Mondays on NBC

I think my expectations are too high for this show.

It’s a mostly Latino cast, which broadcast networks haven’t seen in awhile. And it’s Eva Longoria’s return to acting on TV (she’s a producer on Lifetime’s “Devious Maids”).

But the premise, a group of people surviving life while working on a telenovela, seems cliche.

It’s funny and over-the-top, but it’s not the best comedy I’ve watched.

Grade: B+

 

‘SUPERSTORE’

Mondays at 8 p.m. on NBC

This comedy focuses on employees of a superstore. You know, the one-stop shop.

The actors, led by America Ferrera (“Ugly Betty”) and Ben Feldman (“A to Z”) carry the show. For now.

But the writing isn’t strong. Episode 2 has a storyline that some might find offensive. It’s quirky but not in an exciting way.

I think this show has promise, but the plots may not keep viewers interested.

Grade: B

 

‘BORDERTOWN’

9:30 p.m. Sundays on Fox

How can a hot topic become a farce? Put it in the hands of Seth MacFarlane.

The “Family Guy” creator is an executive producer on this Fox comedy, and its humor is in the same vein as his other shows.

Which is too bad. The show focuses on issues such as immigration and racism, but for many people, the stupidity of the jokes won’t allow this show to give an enlightening look to these issues.

Grade: C

 

‘ANGEL FROM HELL’

9:30 p.m. on Thursdays on CBS 

Jane Lynch (“Glee,” “Hollywood Game Night”) is back acting on TV. And she makes the show worth a tune-in.

Lynch plays Allison’s (Maggie Lawson) guardian angel. As silly as it may sound, it doesn’t come off cheesy.

I’m not sure there’s enough plot to carry this show past season 1, but the actors make the comedy endearing.

Grade: B+

 

‘SHADES OF BLUE’

10 p.m. Thursdays on NBC

Who can you trust? It seems like no one on this drama.

The show stars Jennifer Lopez and Ray Liotta as cops, but it’s a step above regular police/crime procedurals.

It’s a bit more complicated as characters attempt to do what’s right for them, the city, their families …

It could be hard to follow over time, but Lopez is compelling enough to keep watching.

Grade: A- 

 

‘SECOND CHANCE’

9 p.m. Wednesdays on Fox

What if you had a second chance? Jeff Pritchard gets one, but it comes with strings.

The disgraced sheriff is brought back to life by scientists to help save a life, and to test something.

The plot of this Fox drama plays out in a heavy-handed matter, over stressing the ideas of life vs. death and what you would do for your family.

Grade: C+ 

 

‘DC’s LEGENDS OF TOMORROW’

8 p.m. Thursdays on The CW

Another superhero show! Yeah?!?

Building off of “Arrow” and “The Flash,” this sci-fi/comic book show follows such a similar plot structure to “The Flash” that it’s boring.

Yes, there’s plenty of action, and I didn’t feel lost watching it without having seen all of the previously mentioned shows, but it seems rather predictable. And frankly, it’s a pain to keep up with that many TV shows to get the full effect.

Grade: B-

3 reasons why Fox’s ‘Empire’ works

This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on March 18, 2015. Season 3 of “Empire” premieres at  9 tonight.

If you haven’t heard about Fox’s new show “Empire,” you probably haven’t been paying any attention to pop culture, because it’s by far the most talked-about show of the winter TV season.

I’ll admit I haven’t seen every episode, but here are three reasons why the show is successful.

STAR POWER

I’ve never thought star power was required for TV shows. And in some cases, due to the power of celebrity, it’s hindered a show’s success.

But with “Empire,” it’s the opposite; it fuels the drama’s success.

Let’s start with the leads: Taraji P. Henson, who plays Cookie, the ex-wife of Lucious, played by Terrence Howard.

Talk about credibility: The two starred in “Hustle & Flow,” the 2005 movie that garnered an Oscar nomination for Howard. Henson was nominated for an Oscar for “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”

It’s not just that these actors are high-profile, they also have chemistry.

But it doesn’t stop there: Many other well-known actors have appeared on the show. Raven-Symone. Courtney Love. Gabourey Sidibe. Naomi Campbell. And the list goes on.

It might seem like that many celebrities would overpower the show, but the guest stars are in only snippets, so it’s not overdone.

Who knows who will show up next? “Empire” was greenlit for season 2 early in its run, and with Lee Daniels and Danny Strong at the show’s helm (both were involved in “The Butler”), anything can happen.

THE MUSIC

Fox has done musical shows before (ahem … “Glee”), but “Empire” is different.

Because it’s a drama, not a musical, the music fills in naturally.

Of course it’s easy to incorporate music since the show is about a family’s record label, but it truly never feels forced.

Keeping with the show’s star power, Timbaland is the executive music producer, so the music will continue to be powerful.

IT’S NOT A FAMILY COMEDY … IT’S A FAMILY DRAMA

If a family is the center of a TV show, it’s usually a comedy (“Modern Family,” “Full House,” “The Middle,” etc.).

And while “Empire” is a lot of things, it’s not a comedy.

There’s violence. There’s conflict. There’s crime. There’s music. There’s romance.

It’s a lot to take in, but since family is at the core of this drama, the show has broader appeal.

The two-hour season finale of “Empire” airs at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, on Fox.

Emmys 2015: 3 takeaways from this year’s TV awards show

In preparation for Sunday’s 2016 Emmys, here is a blog about the 2015 Emmys, originally published on elkharttruth.com on Sept. 21, 2015.

If only I could hide in a cave and watch all these good TV shows.

The Emmys were last night, so in case you didn’t watch, here’s my take on the awards show.

WERE THERE ONLY THREE SHOWS ON TV THIS YEAR?

This year, the show was in three parts: one hour for comedy, one hour for reality/variety/etc. and one hour for drama.

I thought it was odd to be so focused on one category instead of mixing it up. It also made it seem like only three shows won Emmys: “Veep,” “Olive Kitteridge” and “Game of Thrones.”

In reality, this wasn’t the case. But let’s put it this way:

It’s not that these shows are bad. It’s just many other shows deserve praise, too. I haven’t watched everything, but I think the voters could’ve shared the love.

PEOPLE SEEMED GENUINELY HAPPY TO WIN

If you haven’t heard, history was made during this year’s Emmys.

But some, including Davis, made passionate speeches, and it was endearing to watch.

Uzo Aduba, who won for “Orange is the New Black,” cried during her speech, and she was thankful, especially for her sister.

HOST ANDY SAMBERG HAD FUNNY MOMENTS, BUT HOW ABOUT A DUO FOR 2016?

Samberg wasn’t the funniest host, in my opinion. The show overall had lower ratings. He could’ve brought Justin Timberlake, but Samberg said very early on in his monologue that the singer wouldn’t appear.

But hey, I’ll take an HBO Go password, which reportedly worked for a bit.

My favorite joke was when he said, “The red carpet: significantly less glamorous after you leave it.”

Some duos that presented during this year’s awards show would be excellent candidates for the 2016 host spot.

Amy Poehler and Tina Fey proved comedic gold at the Golden Globes, so it’s time for the Emmys to try it (hint hint, Poehler and Amy Schumer!)

What did you think of the 2015 Emmys? 

2015 Emmys: Surprises, more from Emmy nominations

In preparation for Sunday’s 2016 Emmys, here is a blog about the 2015 Emmys, originally published on elkharttruth.com on July 16, 2015.

Is it September yet?

Cat Deeley (“So You Think You Can Dance”) and Uzo Aduba (“Orange is the New Black”) announced the 2015 Emmy nominations Thursday, July 16, and as usual, it’ll be an interesting race.

While numerous expected nominations filled out the list, there were some surprises, as there are every year.

SURPRISES

It’s not a miniseries anymore, it’s a limited series. Not sure why the name change happened, but my best guess is it has to do with the plethora of shows that run for only a few episodes.

Jeff Daniels received a nomination for “The Newsroom.” It’s not that the HBO show isn’t good, but it was short-lived, and other actors such as Terrence Howard of “Empire” or James Spader of NBC’s “The Blacklist” could’ve been in Daniels’ spot.

Tatiana Maslany finally got an Emmy nomination. “Orphan Black” has been on the air for three seasons, and considering she plays multiple characters, it’s about time she got nominated.

SNUBS

“Empire” was practically shut out. Taraji P. Henson was nominated, but considering the show’s popularity and crazy amount of guest stars, it’s strange not see the drama more represented.

Also surprised “black-ish” didn’t receive more nominations. I didn’t enjoy the ABC show but many others did. I thought Tracee Ellis Ross would’ve gotten an actress nomination.

“Jane the Virgin” is out. An Emmy nod would have been huge for the CW, and many adore Gina Rodriguez. She did win the Golden Globe but failed to receive an Emmy nomination.

EARLY PREDICTIONS

“Mad Men” will finally win an acting Emmy. It’s the show’s swan song, and it’s not like the AMC drama isn’t deserving.

“Modern Family” will finally fall. The ABC show has won a record-tying five consecutive Emmys, but it’s far time for another show to win.

David Letterman will be recognized in some capacity. His show is nominated, and again, it’s a swan song, which seems to go over well with voters, but maybe he’ll even get a tribute during the show.

Andy Samberg (“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”) will host the 67th Emmy Awards at 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, on Fox.

Event series now part of TV culture

This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on April 15, 2015.

Blink and you’ll miss them.

“Gracepoint.” “The Slap.” And, to an extent, “Marvel’s Agent Carter” (the ABC show might return for a second season, though it’s up in the air).

What is with all these “event series”? Which, by the way, is basically a fancy term for “miniseries.”

TV networks are airing seven- to 10-episode series, with events concluding by the last episode.

Why now? I can think of two reasons: “American Horror Story” and “True Detective.”

These shows have captivated audiences, and even though they air for multiple seasons, they are a different show each time, with new cast members and premises.

Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk (of “Glee” fame) have churned out four seasons of “American Horror Story,” each in a different location but always with lots of thrills. Season 5, surrounding a hotel, has nabbed Lady Gaga as a star.

“True Detective” brought Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey to the small screen, alongside Woody Harrelson. Audiences were drawn to the mystery, and both actors received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for their work. Season 2 will star Vince Vaughn and Rachel McAdams.

With these shows drawing in viewers and big-name stars, it’s no wonder other networks are following suit.

Most movie actors have little desire to commit to a TV show since it could last many years. But an event series is a short-term commitment, leaving actors free to pursue other projects.

Uma Thurman was on NBC’s “The Slap.” Anna Gunn was on “Gracepoint.” But now they can dive in to other roles.

A 10-episode show is a short-term commitment for a viewer, too. I watched all eight episodes of “The Slap” over the course of a few days.

With Netflix and Hulu feeding the binge-watching phenomenon, networks have to adapt, hence the event series.

Not every show will work as an event series, but the concept is here to stay.

Emmys 2014: Will choices be predictable or unpredictable?

In preparation for Sunday’s 2016 Emmys, here is a blog about the 2014 Emmys, originally published on elkharttruth.com on Aug. 23, 2014.

Another year, another Emmys show.

The Emmys recognize talent in the TV world.

The nominations came out in July, and some winners have already been announced. Congratulations, by the way, to Jane Lynch, who won for hosting “Hollywood Game Night,” one of my favorite shows.

Now some award shows are predictable. “Modern Family” has won the Emmy for best comedy series every year it’s been on the air.

But there’s also a chance for a wild card.

The winners could be predictable or unpredictable choices. Here are my ideas:

Lead actor, comedy

Predictable choice: Jim Parsons (“The Big Bang Theory”)

I’m not going to lie; I just really want Parsons to win. I’m a big fan of Sheldon.

Unpredictable choice: Louis C.K. (“Louie”)

It’s an off-the-wall show on an often-not-talked-about TV network (FX), but C.K. might be recognized for only his writing instead of his acting.

Lead actor, drama

Predictable choice: Bryan Cranston (“Breaking Bad”)

It was the last season, he has a lot of other nominations for the character (including a Golden Globe win this year), so he’ll probably go out with a bang.

Unpredictable choice: Jon Hamm (“Mad Men”)

Although Hamm has been nominated numerous times for playing Don Draper, he’s never won an Emmy for the role. With the show coming to the close, this could be the year he gets recognized. But don’t count on it.

Lead actress, comedy

Predictable choice: Julia Louis-Dreyfus (“Veep”)

She’s won the last two years, and third time’s the charm, right?

Unpredictable choice: Amy Poehler (“Parks and Recreation”)

She finally won the Golden Globe this year, so it might be for the talented comedienne time to win an Emmy … but, again, don’t count on it.

Lead actress, drama

Predictable choice: Claire Danes (“Homeland”) or Kerry Washington (“Scandal”)

I can’t choose here; both play powerhouse characters. Danes won last year, but some are rooting for Washington.

Unpredictable choice: Lizzy Caplan (“Masters of Sex”)

She’s a first-time nominee, so she might have beginner’s luck. Plus, her co-star Michael Sheen isn’t nominated, so she might get some love for being the show’s only lead nomination. (Allison Janney won outstanding guest actress for her work on the Showtime drama.)

Outstanding comedy series

Predictable choice: “Modern Family”

It’s won every year it’s been nominated. Will it take the cake again? Considering it tackled the wedding of Mitchell and Cameron and trips to Australia and Las Vegas, it probably will.

Unpredictable choice: “Silicon Valley”

I don’t even think many people have heard of this HBO show, and to be honest, I haven’t watched even a snippet of it. But it did beat out shows such as “New Girl,” “The Mindy Project,” “Girls” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” so it has a distant shot of winning.

Outstanding drama series

Predictable choice: “Breaking Bad”

It’s won before, and because the show ended its run last fall, it’ll most likely be recognized.

Unpredictable choice: “Game of Thrones”

The number of fans for this HBO show continues to become more excited and eager, and the show has the most Emmy nominations this year.

But the drama, based on the books by George R.R. Martin, has a niche appeal, which dwindles its chance of winning.

The 66th Emmy Awards will air at 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, on NBC.

Emmy nominations 2014: ‘Modern Family’ up for fifth win, ‘Orphan Black’ snubbed

In preparation for Sunday’s 2016 Emmys, here is a blog about the 2014 Emmys, originally published on elkharttruth.com on July 10, 2014.

It’s summer TV time, but it’s also Emmys time.

The Emmy nominations for 2014 were announced Thursday, July 10, and as usual, there were obvious choices and total snubs.

Here’s my breakdown of this year’s nominations:

Surprise nominations

While “Mad Men,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “Breaking Bad” and this year’s season of “American Horror Story” are obvious returning nominations, there were a few unexpected twists.

“Bonnie and Clyde” was nominated for best miniseries. Considering many critics didn’t love the A&E, History and Lifetime show, which was plagued with historical inaccuracies, it was a shock to see it receive a nomination. It won’t win, though. The race will be between “American Horror Story: Coven,” and Billy Bob Thornton’s “Fargo.”

Melissa McCarthy is nominated for her work on “Mike & Molly.” Out of all the comedic actresses, I think there were other choices from shows more people are watching.

Biggest snubs

Andy Samberg, who (surprisingly) won the Golden Globe for his role on “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” was left out of the Emmy race. The Fox comedy wasn’t nominated either.

“The Good Wife” received many deserved acting nominations, including Julianna Margulies 10th overall Emmy nomination — she had won once for “ER” in 1995 and once for “The Good Wife” in 2011, but the CBS show was left off the best drama category. Considering its rise to Sunday TV gold this season, I figured it would be a shoo-in for a nomination.

But perhaps the biggest snub of all was the omission of “Orphan Black.” It’s a show that may not appeal to everyone, but Tatiana Maslany plays multiple clones. Multiple! How does that not deserve a lead actress nomination?

“Modern Family” again?

The ABC comedy is up for outstanding comedy series for the fifth year in a row.

It’s been nominated every year it’s been eligible, and it’s won every year so far.

Will the show take the win again? It could happen. “Modern Family” showcased touching moments that still turn out a laugh, including Cam and Mitchell’s (played by Eric Stonestreet and Jesse Tyler Ferguson) wedding in the season 5 finale.

But I think a new show could take over, and with “Orange is the New Black” and “Silicon Valley” being first-time nominees, I expect the reign of “Modern Family” to end.

The conundrum of “Orange is the New Black” nominations

In its first year of eligibility, “Orange is the New Black,” the hit Netflix prison dramedy, snagged a decent amount of nominations. That’s no surprise, considering how popular and acclaimed the show is.

But what is surprising is what categories in which the actresses were nominated. Taylor Schilling (Piper) is in the lead actress category, with Kate Mulgrew (Red) is the supporting actress category.

Three actresses, however, are nominated in the guest actress category. Natasha Lyonne, Uzo Aduba and Laverne Cox have been lumped together with Tina Fey (“Saturday Night Live”), Melissa McCarthy (“SNL”) and Joan Cusack (“Shameless”).

The last three are guest actresses for those shows. But the OITNB stars, while not the leading actresses, are certainly more than guest actresses. Aduba is credited with being in 37 of the show’s 39 episodes, and Lyonne is credited with being in every episode on IMDb. They had standout and background moments. The characters are key to the story, so to only put them in the guest actress seems a bit strange.

The Emmys will air at 8 p.m. Aug. 25 on NBC. The show will be hosted by Seth Meyers.

What do you think? What were your surprises and snubs?

‘Hollywood Game Night’: The show you should be watching

This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on May 9, 2014.

I was bored one night, so I went to Hulu and found “Hollywood Game Night.”

I had heard about the show on Facebook, but I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into.

After one episode, I was hooked.

It’s a kooky show. It’s a game show. It’s a celebrity-filled show. But most of all, it’s super fun to watch.

The premise of the show is this: Jane Lynch (“Glee“) plays host and emcee. There are two teams made up of three celebrities and one civilian on each side. Each segment focuses on a game.

The civilian on the winning team then picks a celebrity to play in the bonus round, “celebrity name game.” If the civilian gets 10 names correct, they win $25,000. If they get less than 10 correct, they win $1,000 for each correct answer. And, to top it off, the celebrity whom the civilian picks wins $10,000 or $1,000 for each correct answer, which then is donated to the charity of his or her choice.

Some games are simple, some are challenging, some are … odd.

In the game Timeline, for example, one celebrity, with the help of his or her team, has to arrange six pictures in chronological order. This game usually involves lots of yelling as the group shouts out suggestions for what pictures to swap.

An odd game is Celebrity Fusion in which two players from each team is shown a picture of two celebrities with their features fused together. The two celebrities in the picture share a common name. For example, Steven Tyler Perry could be a correct answer. Because traits of both celebrities are fused together, the picture looks … well, odd.

Each episode is titled based on the theme or a celebrity on the episode. For example, the season 2 episode “How I Met Your Buzzer” featured Cobie Smulders, who played Robin on “How I Met Your Mother.”

The fun is not only in the games but in the celebrities’ antics. Many episodes feature at least two people who are co-stars, dating, married or friends, so trash talking or crying foul happens almost every episode.

I think it’s worth a watch, but let me know what you think.

“Hollywood Game Night“ airs Thursdays on NBC, and you can watch full episodes online.

‘Dancing with the Stars’: the good, the bad and the in between

This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on April 28, 2014.

“Dancing with the Stars” is in its 18th season. It premiered in 2005.

Over time, the show has adapted to keep current. There have been host switch-ups, instant dances, partner switch-ups and more.

But are all of these changes good? Here’s my take on the good, the bad and the in between.

The Good: Theme nights

Almost every week on DWTS has a theme. Latin night, Disney night … some are simple, while others are more elaborate.

But the themes give the show focus, and they are fun.

Disney night was new this season. I loved seeing the cast dress up as Cinderella, Ariel and more. Plus, I love listening to Disney music.

But the best theme night, which has been around the past few years, is the most memorable year night.

Celebrities choose a year that meant the most to them and pick the song. Viewers get to see an honest, vulnerable side to the celebrities, or at least more insight into moments we remember.

Who didn’t love Candace Cameron Bure (who played D.J. on “Full House“) dancing to “Jailhouse Rock” as an homage to her years on the ’90s sitcom. Not only that, but Lori Loughlin (Rebecca) and Andrea Barber (Kimmy) were shown during the rehearsal footage. As someone who owns the entire series on DVD, seeing a reunion brought a huge smile to my face.

The Bad: Host switch-ups

When the news hit that Brooke Burke-Charvet was out of her DWTS hosting duties, I was happy. I thought she was stiff and uninviting.

But then it was announced that Erin Andrews was her replacement. And she’s just as stiff. Plus, she says things to the dancers that are way inappropriate. As funny as it may be to have a “DWTS baby,” Andrews asking James Maslow of Big Time Rush about his relationship with Peta Murgatroyd really crossed a line.

In truth, though, no one can compare to Tom Bergeron. He has the talent and the experience to make a great host. But can we please bring Samantha Harris back? She at least knew what she was doing.

The In Between: Guest judges

I’m all for more opinions. Another opinion can be really helpful.

Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli are great judges. They have great chemistry and a good balance on feedback.

In recent seasons, the ABC reality competition has brought in a fourth judge from time to time. It can be fun, if it’s the right person.

Former DWTS pros make great guest judges, because they understand the show and the process. Plus, they know the other contestants, which makes for great TV. Hey, Julianne Hough, did you ever “phone in” a routine?

But bringing in guest judges just for the sake of ratings is annoying. People like Robin Roberts and Redfoo of LMFAO are fun, but they can’t offer true critiques.

The Good: Graphics makeover

This season, new graphics were implemented for when the scores are given.

It’s a small detail, but the look is cleaner and up-to-date.

The Bad: Partner switch-up

This was just implemented this season. Viewers got to choose the new pairings using Twitter hashtags.

It was an odd week. Some people performed well with new partners; others crashed and burned.

It was only the fourth week of competition, so the celebrities were just getting into a good rhythm with their pros. Maybe if the switch-up happened at the halfway point, it would’ve worked out better.

Overall, it was gimmicky. There was so much hype around it, for just one week. To me, it wasn’t worthwhile.

The In Between: The music

I liked the Harold Wheeler Band. They had personality. I was sad to see them go this season.

But, the new band, led by Ray Chew, is good as well. But, there have been a few technical malfunctions this season, and that can really throw off dancers.

Also, while it’s nice to use pre-recorded music to get the true vibe of the song, the increased use of it is frustrating.

Live dancing should yield live music. Plus, as a musician, I appreciate that the band gives people jobs in the entertainment industry.

What do you think? What changes have you appreciated? Did you like the partner switch-up? Let me know in the comments.

‘How I Met Your Mother:’ Top 10 episodes of the CBS show

This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on July 14, 2014.

Just because “How I Met Your Mother” didn’t have the best finale doesn’t mean there weren’t great episodes of the show, which ran for nine seasons.

Here are my top 10 episodes of the CBS comedy, or the ones I watch over and over.

10. Glitter (first aired Nov. 15, 2010)

I loved when HIMYM revealed more information about Robin Sparkles, Robin’s Canadian teen pop star past.

This episode features appearances from Alan Thicke and Nicole Scherzinger, who played the titular friend of Robin’s.

Oh, and there was that robot from their kids math show, “Space Teens.”

9. Oh Honey (first aired Feb. 15, 2011)

HIMYM had some great guest stars. This season six episode featured Katy Perry as Zoey’s (Jennifer Morrison) cousin, whose name wasn’t really Honey, but she was so naive everyone called her that.

The show uses phone calls and flashbacks to carry the plot to the moment when Ted and Zoey finally get together, but it never felt forced or static.

8. The Best Man (first aired Sept. 19, 2011)

This season 7 opener was a moment of clarity for Barney and Robin. It forshadowed their eventual reuniting as a couple, but first Barney had to actually care about a woman and not use bad pickup scenarios, like pretending to be a prison escapee and wearing overgrown fingernails. Nora (Nazanin Boniadi), who called him back in this episode, helped him mature.

The episode also shows the day of Barney’s wedding, and we see Marshall ruin Ted’s friend Punchy’s wedding. But most importantly, Barney and Robin perform an epic dance to “Groove is in the Heart,” schooling everyone at the Cleveland wedding.

Lastly, this episode that has one of my favorite conversations from the show:

Robin Scherbatsky: “…You got chemistry, you only need one other thing.”

Ted Mosby: “What’s that?”

Robin Scherbatsky: “Timing. But timing’s a bitch.”

7. Brunch (first aired Oct. 1, 2006)

Brunch is supposed to a pleasant affair, but it’s not in this season 2 episode.

Ted thinks his dad cheated on his mom, Barney is mad at Ted’s dad for being a bad wingman, Lily and Marshall can’t handle not being together and Robin wants Ted’s mom to be honest about the fact that she and Ted’s father have separated.

It’s a mess of fighting told in different segments all leading up to a blowout after taking a nice group photo.

6. The Slutty Pumpkin (first aired Oct. 24, 2005)

A lost phone number on Halloween leads to years of wearing the same “hanging chad” costume (referencing the 2000 election) and attending the same boring rooftop party.

This season 1 episode sounds like it could be a drag, but it’s an early episode that sets up a lot of character development.

Viewers see how Lilly and Marshall interact as a couple as they wearing matching costumes and share food. In contrast, viewers see Ted’s hopeful longing for “the one” and Robin’s inability to truly let someone into her life.

It’s too bad the season 7 episode The Slutty Pumpkin Returns (first aired Oct. 31, 2011) didn’t live up to its hype. Sorry, Katie Holmes, not even you could save that snoozefest of an episode.

5. The Perfect Cocktail (first aired May 2, 2011)

I like this episode for the pure hilarity how of all of the different drinks affect the characters.

4. Something Borrowed (first aired May 7, 2007)

Lilly and Marshall are an adorable couple, plain and simple. But, like many weddings, many things go wrong when the couple ties the knot.

But in the end, they have the wedding they originally wanted. And Barney almost cries as he, the master of playing woman, performs the ceremony, despite claiming he doesn’t believe in marriage.

3. Slap Bet (first aired Nov. 20, 2006)

When Robin and Ted began dating in season 2, they had secrets. And Robin had a big one: She was a Canadian pop star who did a mall tour in the ’90s.

This episode not only introduced that side of Robin and the infamous “Let’s Go to the Mall” video, it introduced the slap bet between Barney and Marshall, which lasted until the penultimate episode.

2. How Your Mother Met Me (first aired Jan. 27, 2014)

By far the best episode of season 9, this episode gave viewers what they had wanted for years: the mother’s backstory.

Cristin Milioti did a fabulous job, and it was fun to see many of the clues viewers had seen throughout the show’s run from her character’s point of view.

1. Girls Vs. Suits (first aired Jan. 11, 2010)

The show’s 100th episode featured one hilarious song-and-dance number.

When Barney has to choose between his signature attire of suits and a girl, he dreams up his “Nothing Suits Me Like a Suit” fantasy, complete with a suit in the sky with angel wings and lyrics such as “Wingman I can wear/They’re oh so debonair/The perfect way to snare/A girl with daddy issues.”

Oh yeah, and Tim Gunn makes a cameo. According to IMDb trivia, he was the most welcomed star on set out of all the guest stars.

 

Obviously there are numerous good episodes of HIMYM. Let me know what your favorites are in the comments.