Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life - Summer
In Spite of its Flaws, Summer Shines
By Felix Quinonez Jr.
December 22, 2016
Unfortunately, this is also the point where the grating “30 something gang” is introduced. They are a group of guys and girls in their 30s who, like, Rory found themselves living back at home. They spend their days drinking milk shakes, and as Babette (Sally Struthers) explains, “they're very sensitive.” In theory, the idea wasn't half bad. It was an interesting way to show a glimpse of what Rory feels she might become as she's struggling to find her way. But unfortunately, it fails in execution and comes off as a tired, unfunny dig at millennials.
After seeing Rory flailing in the last two episodes it's nice to see her gain a sense of purpose in Stars Hollow, even if it's temporary. Saving the paper has given her something to grab on to as she searches for a semblance of control. And it was also a great opportunity to showcase the reporting talents Rory supposedly has. Unfortunately, the show is more interested in showing how delightfully kooky the staff of two is.
When the show first introduces Charlie (Charles C. Stevenson Jr.) and Esther (Jackie Hoffman), they are in the office of the Stars Hollow Gazette even though the newspaper had already shut down. They are very old and most of the time can barely hear what is being said. Charlie is constantly falling asleep and Esther is always filing one cabinet. It's not necessary to show the entire production of the newspaper. But because they focus on how bare bones and generally helpless the staff is, it raises questions the viewer might have otherwise overlooked. Basically, how on earth is this paper going to get finished? But unfortunately the show doesn't answer that. In one scene Rory is meeting the “staff;” in the next scene, the issue is completely done. This is just one example of the terrible pacing in this episode.
It is, however, very nice to see how committed the show has been about seeing its story lines through. In the previous episode Michel's (Yanic Truesdale) dilemma was great in adding to the emotional stakes. But it was also a device to set up conflict between Luke and Lorelai. So it's a pleasant surprise to see that Michel's storyline wasn't brushed aside after serving its purpose.
From the beginning of the episode, it's evident that there is some trouble brewing between Michel and Lorelai. And it's clear that Lorelai is not only aware of the problem but dreading the inevitable discussion. Things start off innocently enough when Michel asks Lorelai out for drinks. Unfortunately, as soon as Michel comments that it will also give them a chance to talk, it becomes clear that it isn't going to be a lighthearted evening.
Because Michel has so often been relegated to the role of comic relief and is so often grumpy, it's possible to overlook how big of a role he's played in Lorelai's life. But he's known her since she was 17 and has been part of the Dragonfly Inn since day one. And although he is very temperamental, it's clear that they mean a lot to each other. Because of this, their scene, at the secret bar is very moving. It is understated and feels more like a couple ending a long-term relationship. Michel isn't his usual sarcastic self but is instead sad, dreading what he has to do. He even asks Lorelai if they can expand the Dragonfly Inn so he won't have to quit. It's similar to a couple trying a last ditch effort to save the relationship. But in the end they realize that it's over and Michel is leaving.
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