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Post by Leanne on May 15, 2009 15:16:19 GMT -5
Ok I feel human again Ive caught up with you guys I really enjoyed it the finale (2 episodes together) I would never have know that that was George very cleaver and two lovely cliffhanges but I feel we will loose both those characters they seem to want out. Pity. Bailey had me in tears. Izzie was quite amusing with the whole memory thing. Of course I just love the O/C ending and yeah its looks like its all set for a whole bunch of awesome next season. The Owen Mom thing could have been a bit longer...but Im not complaining so bring on season 6...... ;D
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Post by singer201 on May 15, 2009 15:17:43 GMT -5
Cristina and Owen made huge strides in their relationship and personal lives, but it's too bad only snippets were shown on this episode. I felt cheated that the scene with his mom only consisted of "Hi, mom, I'm home" and a hug. Even though I was thrilled he took Cris along, I was disappointed that we didn't get to see him introduce them or have any conversation.
I did love the vent scene where Cristina finally is able to squeeze out the words--I love you. And again the run across the room to grab and kiss Owen and say "Yes".
I guess I was looking too hard for the really BIG curveball thrown at Cris/Owen. I'm honestly still trying to figure out what it was--George's decision to enlist and/or the catastrophic outcome of his accident, Owen's contemplation of reenlisting, Owen's decision to finally see his mother, Cristina in serious risk of losing TWO members of her hospital family.
Thinking a bit more just now, I'm wondering if the curveball IS Cris fearful of losing her close friends. Even though she experienced the death of her father as a child, this time it will be adopted family/colleagues, which is closer to what happened to Owen in Iraq. I can see this affecting the "new" Cristina quite a bit (the bad), and it's something that will definitely carry over into the next season, plus both C and O were spurred by what they witnessed caring for John Doe (George) and Izzie to meet each other halfway in mending their relationship (the good).
I was pleased with the commitments and vows Meredith and Derek agreed upon because they address some long-standing issues between them, but I was quite disappointed that they chose not to take that trip to city hall and make it legal.
When Arizona first responded to George's enlistment with "Awesome", I figured that she had some military ties. I liked that she stood up for George's decision and called him brave and a patriot, since all his friends were considering him an idiot. I guess they didn't watch the Season 2 Thanksgiving episode where George was out in the woods, hunting with his dad and brothers, handling a firearm safely, shooting the turkey, and taking care of his dad's buckshot injuries from the careless gun-handling of his brother. He also was a competent camper and fisherman on the doctor's fishing trip in Season 3, Where the Boys Are. He's not the total softie everyone thinks he is. I'm sorry that Shonda didn't just let George enlist and go, because I think that would have been more respectful of the character.
In my opinion, too many cats were let out of the bag for this episode for it to be a total surprise. Shonda thinks that she can still misdirect us with her carefully-worded hints, but by now, there are enough of us who can read the double meanings, pair them with casting calls, sides, and media leaks, and figure out a lot of the story way ahead of time. It makes me laugh that she was still touting "Mer and Der's wedding DAY" long after we all KNEW it was Izzie and Alex who tied the knot. Even though I was avoiding forums and sneaks this past week, I was not surprised to find both Izzie and George at death's door as dual cliffhangers.
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Post by MarryMeOwen on May 15, 2009 19:57:38 GMT -5
Kazzy-poo where are you dear?
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Post by kaz on May 15, 2009 23:12:06 GMT -5
Kazzy-poo where are you dear? Ummm, that's me I think. I'm here. I couldn't watch until this morning as I had a work function. I have some thoughts, partly formed and written out but I about to rewatch. I will post my review later today. PS. For some strange reason, I can't open anything under spoiler tags so I can't read anyone's review, other than singer's as it isn't tagged.
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Post by MarryMeOwen on May 15, 2009 23:33:39 GMT -5
LOL it is you that happened to me last week with the spoiler tags very wierd.
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Post by kaz on May 16, 2009 2:31:40 GMT -5
I'm here at last and here are my final thoughts for the season (well maybe not, but at least my final review). With a few minor exceptions, the first episode felt like one long hour of nothing. I know it wasn't supposed to be the season finale, only a precursor to it but it just didn't work for me. In the end though, I don't think it mattered too much as it was overshadowed or perhaps even entirely eclipsed by the second hour, which absolutely and unequivocally DID work for me. What I liked the most about episode 23 were the Owen and Cristina moments, culminating in the visit to his mother at the end. But right there is where I felt a little cheated. I'm a big believer in letting some things happen offscreen and not having to see everything but I was hoping for a little more than "Hi mom, I'm home" and a hug. Don't get me wrong, it was a great scene and I loved that Cristina went with Owen. I just wanted extra.
As for George enlisting, the fakeout with the splicing of scenes at Mrs Hunt's house and the recruiting office was nicely done, though I went in completely spoiled and aware of who would be signing up. But I still had a little trouble with the execution of this storyline and here's why. I can buy that O'Malley would make that sort of split second decision. In some ways, it's been coming all season. You could see that he's felt displaced and out of sorts. He's barely been around and when he has been, hasn't had much to do until recent weeks when he discovered his trauma capabilities. Obviously the patient who wanted his leg amputated was supposed to switch a lightbulb on in George's head but I just don't think TR sold it. He seemed to spend the whole episode with this confused look on his face. Perhaps he was going for pensive. I just wasn't sure. Maybe I am just too used to being able to clearly read a reaction in Kevin and Sandra's eyes that noone else quite makes the mark when they try and do the same. Whatever the reason, the dots just didn't connect up for me on the screen. I saw how they were supposed to, but it didn't entirely work.
I enjoyed Meredith's voiceover at the start and finish of this episode and the way it focused on the fact that the future never turns out the way we expect it to. It was a nice lead in to the finale episode and a throw back to the season premiere, filled with all those dreams/premonitions.
Everything in between, however, was just far too heavy on the Izzie. It gave Alex a chance to shine but I got tired of it all quite quickly and wanted to see more of the other characters. I did, however, think the Izzie/George scene was really lovely. It's been a while since they've connected and if that's to be their last scene together, it was a touching little moment. In some ways, it felt to me like a goodbye but maybe I am reading too much into it.
That's about all I can think of to say about 23 but before I move onto the finale, I wanted to weigh in on the 'curveball' debate and say that I think Owen's decision to go back to Iraq was it. In his messed up mind, which was starting to heal but wasn't quite there, he thought that the way to fix things and himself was to head back and finish what he started. Being spoiled, we knew it wasn't going to happen and that George was going to enlist but I think in isolation and without knowing anything, Owen's revelation to Cristina in the supply closet would have been quite the bombshell to the viewer. In terms of how it was good and bad for them, it was bad for obvious reasons (he was going to leave, she clearly couldn't support that decision etc) but in the end it turned out to be good because it brought them closer together, which led him to see his mum, which stopped the nightmares and essentially gave Owen and Cristina a second chance. That will produce some interesting material in the next season as we'll get to see how they function as a couple and perhaps introducing Owen's mother also opens the door to having her back and exploring this character more. Of course, I could be wrong. Maybe there was so much speculation as to what the 'curveball' was that Shonda just pulled the idea altogether. She's been known to do that before.
I think I recall reading somewhere that Shonda began the season by pitching to the writers how it would end. I gather that she worked backwards from there to make sure that the start mirrored or paralleled the end and that other things came full circle.
I could think about this for days and still not have all the links but here are a few that I've come up with so far.
The season starts and ends with an army guy (trauma surgeon) who sweeps a girl off her feet before suffering major trauma himself. By season's end Owen = George and we've come full circle. I just wonder whether George will be able to recover from his trauma as Owen has. Ahh, the joy of the cliffhanger.
In the premiere, Izzie is working on the patient (Betty) whose memory resets every 30 seconds. In the finale, Izzie's memory continues to reset periodically, much to everyone's annoyance.
The season premiere ends with Izzie getting off the elevator in her prom dress and being led into the light. The finale ends with Izzie back on that same elevator. I can't quite remember where or when I said it but way back in September '08 when the premiere first aired, I'm pretty certain I called that while everyone else's visions/dreams would be proven false Izzie's little flash would be a premonition and she would end the season at death's door. Let's see if she goes toward the light.
In the premiere, Cristina and Meredith had several conversations that centered on love, commitment, relationships etc. Cristina, being bitter and broken, was convinced that there was no such thing as happily ever after. Meredith (as dark and twisty as she was) was unsure and doubtful too but just teetering on the edge of giving it a shot. Cristina and Meredith end the season having similar conversations about love and commitment but with entirely different results. Cristina is supportive where she was previously not. Meredith is resolute where she earlier prevaricated. She is no longer "a deer in the woods". Cristina is still a few steps behind her in that regard but they are both healed.
In the premiere, Owen kissed Cristina and then walked off leaving her sitting there amazed/bemused/in semi-shock. In the finale, Cristina did the same to Owen. Full circle.
Meredith dreamed in the premiere that Derek was in an horrific car accident and she watched on (and screamed) as they tried to revive him. Derek was of course safe by finale's end but nevertheless there was a tragic traffic incident and Meredith was the one to scream out once she realised who had been hit.
Alright, that's about all I've got for the moment in terms of parallels. There are no doubt many more. My brain just hasn't had a chance to digest everything.
As for my general thoughts, I wish that I hadn't been spoiled for this finale. Shonda said that she and the writers think this is the best yet. I can't judge because I knew George was the patient from the get go (or strongly suspected based on spoilers and speculation). Knowing that took away the impact for me of that scene where he traced out "007" on Meredith's hand.
Nevertheless, I thought this was an outstanding episode and a great way to wrap up the season.
The scenes to do with George joining the army were great. George's one speaking scene with Bailey, where he mimicked her, was awesome. I loved the way Bailey let Hunt have it and the confused look on Hunt's face as it became apparent that he'd "peeved off all the women". The cafeteria scene where Bailey told each of the residents what their role in the "intervention" was gave me a giggle and Arizona had a nice moment when she revealed that her brother had died in Iraq.
I loved the overall message of this episode so much, and particularly Meredith's final voiceover - "Did you say it? I love you. I don't ever want to live without you. You changed my life. Did you say it? Make a plan. Set a goal. Work toward it. But every now and then, look around. Drink it in...'cause this is it. It might all be gone tomorrow". I really felt it.
I am a teary person. I think I've mentioned that alot. So it's not unusual for me to cry in an episode. Surprisingly, I wasn't all that saddened by this episode. The elevator scene tugged on my heart strings a little (and just quietly, apparently all it takes to make a man attractive to me is a buzz cut and army uniform) but I'm not too phased about what will happen to Izzie and George. But when Meredith told Cristina she loved her, I shed a little tear of happiness. They've come SUCH a long way.
Not being a huge Meredith and Derek fan (I mean, I like them but I don't lovvvvvvvvvvvvve them) I was happy with the "marriage" scene in the locker room. I suspect that alot of die-hard fans will think differently but in my view it was a fitting way for them to have a union.
Though there weren't enough of them, the Owen and Cristina scenes were brilliant (as per usual). I adored the first scene on the bridge, when Owen was clearly overjoyed about the fact that he slept through the night. I didn't entirely buy that a visit to his mother would stop the nightmares but I was prepared to suspend my disbelief. I don't think he's healed entirely and I don't think his proposition to Cristina was a suggestion that he doesn't have some ways to go in that regard, but this scene (and in particular that cheeky little kiss) was definitely evidence that the Before Owen is creeping back in and that, to me, is great news for the future.
By far my favourite scene of the episode for these two was the one in the vent room. I loved watching Cristina Yang struggle to say those words to Owen, and the confusion on his face. I loved the pacing back and forth and scolding him for traumatising her by making her love him. She was so awkward and oh so Cristina but she is so not a robot. Not anymore. In 5 seasons of Grey's Anatomy, I don't think we've seen Cristina smile as much as she did in this one episode.
Finally, I liked that Owen asked Cristina to meet him halfway since the relationship they had before seemed to be all about Cristina having to give everything to be his support. This sets them up to be on stable ground and even footing for season 6 and I cannot wait to see where it leads us.
So this was probably my most random review of the season. It felt a little bit difficult to tie everything together. Hopefully I can open spoiler tags at some point to read what everyone else has written and be reminded of things I neglected to comment on (as I'm sure I've glossed over a lot). I will say that this episode makes me excited for what is to come, though it will be a long wait. Other than the 2 major cliffhangers, I think they tied everything else in a nice little bow and left a lot of room for new and interesting storylines. My season 6 resolution, though I doubt I will be able to stick to it, is to avoid spoilers where possible.
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Geniusmentis
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Post by Geniusmentis on May 16, 2009 3:53:08 GMT -5
You have already written everything. A little thing.... When Owen tells Cristina that he wants to be a better man WITH her, to think about that, and, smiling, he kisses her: who do you see? I see not only the Owen of the second episode, but, above all, Dan Vasser!!!! Dan had the same smile when he kissed Kate!
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Post by Leanne on May 16, 2009 4:59:03 GMT -5
Hide and show are working again .....
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ruralstar
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Post by ruralstar on May 16, 2009 7:51:28 GMT -5
I'm here at last and here are my final thoughts for the season (well maybe not, but at least my final review). With a few minor exceptions, the first episode felt like one long hour of nothing. I know it wasn't supposed to be the season finale, only a precursor to it but it just didn't work for me. In the end though, I don't think it mattered too much as it was overshadowed or perhaps even entirely eclipsed by the second hour, which absolutely and unequivocally DID work for me. What I liked the most about episode 23 were the Owen and Cristina moments, culminating in the visit to his mother at the end. But right there is where I felt a little cheated. I'm a big believer in letting some things happen offscreen and not having to see everything but I was hoping for a little more than "Hi mom, I'm home" and a hug. Don't get me wrong, it was a great scene and I loved that Cristina went with Owen. I just wanted extra.
As for George enlisting, the fakeout with the splicing of scenes at Mrs Hunt's house and the recruiting office was nicely done, though I went in completely spoiled and aware of who would be signing up. But I still had a little trouble with the execution of this storyline and here's why. I can buy that O'Malley would make that sort of split second decision. In some ways, it's been coming all season. You could see that he's felt displaced and out of sorts. He's barely been around and when he has been, hasn't had much to do until recent weeks when he discovered his trauma capabilities. Obviously the patient who wanted his leg amputated was supposed to switch a lightbulb on in George's head but I just don't think TR sold it. He seemed to spend the whole episode with this confused look on his face. Perhaps he was going for pensive. I just wasn't sure. Maybe I am just too used to being able to clearly read a reaction in Kevin and Sandra's eyes that noone else quite makes the mark when they try and do the same. Whatever the reason, the dots just didn't connect up for me on the screen. I saw how they were supposed to, but it didn't entirely work.
I enjoyed Meredith's voiceover at the start and finish of this episode and the way it focused on the fact that the future never turns out the way we expect it to. It was a nice lead in to the finale episode and a throw back to the season premiere, filled with all those dreams/premonitions.
Everything in between, however, was just far too heavy on the Izzie. It gave Alex a chance to shine but I got tired of it all quite quickly and wanted to see more of the other characters. I did, however, think the Izzie/George scene was really lovely. It's been a while since they've connected and if that's to be their last scene together, it was a touching little moment. In some ways, it felt to me like a goodbye but maybe I am reading too much into it.
That's about all I can think of to say about 23 but before I move onto the finale, I wanted to weigh in on the 'curveball' debate and say that I think Owen's decision to go back to Iraq was it. In his messed up mind, which was starting to heal but wasn't quite there, he thought that the way to fix things and himself was to head back and finish what he started. Being spoiled, we knew it wasn't going to happen and that George was going to enlist but I think in isolation and without knowing anything, Owen's revelation to Cristina in the supply closet would have been quite the bombshell to the viewer. In terms of how it was good and bad for them, it was bad for obvious reasons (he was going to leave, she clearly couldn't support that decision etc) but in the end it turned out to be good because it brought them closer together, which led him to see his mum, which stopped the nightmares and essentially gave Owen and Cristina a second chance. That will produce some interesting material in the next season as we'll get to see how they function as a couple and perhaps introducing Owen's mother also opens the door to having her back and exploring this character more. Of course, I could be wrong. Maybe there was so much speculation as to what the 'curveball' was that Shonda just pulled the idea altogether. She's been known to do that before.
I think I recall reading somewhere that Shonda began the season by pitching to the writers how it would end. I gather that she worked backwards from there to make sure that the start mirrored or paralleled the end and that other things came full circle.
I could think about this for days and still not have all the links but here are a few that I've come up with so far.
The season starts and ends with an army guy (trauma surgeon) who sweeps a girl off her feet before suffering major trauma himself. By season's end Owen = George and we've come full circle. I just wonder whether George will be able to recover from his trauma as Owen has. Ahh, the joy of the cliffhanger.
In the premiere, Izzie is working on the patient (Betty) whose memory resets every 30 seconds. In the finale, Izzie's memory continues to reset periodically, much to everyone's annoyance.
The season premiere ends with Izzie getting off the elevator in her prom dress and being led into the light. The finale ends with Izzie back on that same elevator. I can't quite remember where or when I said it but way back in September '08 when the premiere first aired, I'm pretty certain I called that while everyone else's visions/dreams would be proven false Izzie's little flash would be a premonition and she would end the season at death's door. Let's see if she goes toward the light.
In the premiere, Cristina and Meredith had several conversations that centered on love, commitment, relationships etc. Cristina, being bitter and broken, was convinced that there was no such thing as happily ever after. Meredith (as dark and twisty as she was) was unsure and doubtful too but just teetering on the edge of giving it a shot. Cristina and Meredith end the season having similar conversations about love and commitment but with entirely different results. Cristina is supportive where she was previously not. Meredith is resolute where she earlier prevaricated. She is no longer "a deer in the woods". Cristina is still a few steps behind her in that regard but they are both healed.
In the premiere, Owen kissed Cristina and then walked off leaving her sitting there amazed/bemused/in semi-shock. In the finale, Cristina did the same to Owen. Full circle.
Meredith dreamed in the premiere that Derek was in an horrific car accident and she watched on (and screamed) as they tried to revive him. Derek was of course safe by finale's end but nevertheless there was a tragic traffic incident and Meredith was the one to scream out once she realised who had been hit.
Alright, that's about all I've got for the moment in terms of parallels. There are no doubt many more. My brain just hasn't had a chance to digest everything.
As for my general thoughts, I wish that I hadn't been spoiled for this finale. Shonda said that she and the writers think this is the best yet. I can't judge because I knew George was the patient from the get go (or strongly suspected based on spoilers and speculation). Knowing that took away the impact for me of that scene where he traced out "007" on Meredith's hand.
Nevertheless, I thought this was an outstanding episode and a great way to wrap up the season.
The scenes to do with George joining the army were great. George's one speaking scene with Bailey, where he mimicked her, was awesome. I loved the way Bailey let Hunt have it and the confused look on Hunt's face as it became apparent that he'd "peeved off all the women". The cafeteria scene where Bailey told each of the residents what their role in the "intervention" was gave me a giggle and Arizona had a nice moment when she revealed that her brother had died in Iraq.
I loved the overall message of this episode so much, and particularly Meredith's final voiceover - "Did you say it? I love you. I don't ever want to live without you. You changed my life. Did you say it? Make a plan. Set a goal. Work toward it. But every now and then, look around. Drink it in...'cause this is it. It might all be gone tomorrow". I really felt it.
I am a teary person. I think I've mentioned that alot. So it's not unusual for me to cry in an episode. Surprisingly, I wasn't all that saddened by this episode. The elevator scene tugged on my heart strings a little (and just quietly, apparently all it takes to make a man attractive to me is a buzz cut and army uniform) but I'm not too phased about what will happen to Izzie and George. But when Meredith told Cristina she loved her, I shed a little tear of happiness. They've come SUCH a long way.
Not being a huge Meredith and Derek fan (I mean, I like them but I don't lovvvvvvvvvvvvve them) I was happy with the "marriage" scene in the locker room. I suspect that alot of die-hard fans will think differently but in my view it was a fitting way for them to have a union.
Though there weren't enough of them, the Owen and Cristina scenes were brilliant (as per usual). I adored the first scene on the bridge, when Owen was clearly overjoyed about the fact that he slept through the night. I didn't entirely buy that a visit to his mother would stop the nightmares but I was prepared to suspend my disbelief. I don't think he's healed entirely and I don't think his proposition to Cristina was a suggestion that he doesn't have some ways to go in that regard, but this scene (and in particular that cheeky little kiss) was definitely evidence that the Before Owen is creeping back in and that, to me, is great news for the future.
By far my favourite scene of the episode for these two was the one in the vent room. I loved watching Cristina Yang struggle to say those words to Owen, and the confusion on his face. I loved the pacing back and forth and scolding him for traumatising her by making her love him. She was so awkward and oh so Cristina but she is so not a robot. Not anymore. In 5 seasons of Grey's Anatomy, I don't think we've seen Cristina smile as much as she did in this one episode.
Finally, I liked that Owen asked Cristina to meet him halfway since the relationship they had before seemed to be all about Cristina having to give everything to be his support. This sets them up to be on stable ground and even footing for season 6 and I cannot wait to see where it leads us.
So this was probably my most random review of the season. It felt a little bit difficult to tie everything together. Hopefully I can open spoiler tags at some point to read what everyone else has written and be reminded of things I neglected to comment on (as I'm sure I've glossed over a lot). I will say that this episode makes me excited for what is to come, though it will be a long wait. Other than the 2 major cliffhangers, I think they tied everything else in a nice little bow and left a lot of room for new and interesting storylines. My season 6 resolution, though I doubt I will be able to stick to it, is to avoid spoilers where possible. I think reviewing this episode was difficult for all of us. There was a lot to digest and I know my thoughts were as random as some of the plot twists they tried to pawn off. I didn't know George was the patient until Meredith did so that was a good shocker for someone who wasn't as spoiled. As for Owen trying to enlist being the cliffhanger... Well, I had no clue he would so that did surprise me. Sadly, the fact that it would be highly implausible (as supported by cl3me's later comment) kind of ruined the whole concept. I think the idea of how serious a 'curveball' we were to be dealt was measured by what we viewers perceive and expect from a show like GA. I know Kevin himself implied the good and bad aspects but again, it depends on what he sees as a shocker. We all ran wild and I'm so glad we were wrong.
It does seem like Shonda worked backwards to construct this season. Sadly, I think she needed at least two less episodes that focused on Izzy so that things like Georg'e decision to join the service and Owen's rapid healing could be better explained. I know there are some in Hollywood that consider Rhimes to be in some ways brilliant because of the past success of both GA and Private Practice. I think she blunders more often than she succeeds. Honestly, without Kevin, I seriously doubt GA would exist this fall.
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Post by cl3me on May 16, 2009 10:24:16 GMT -5
OK, had a rewatch, a bit of time to digest it some more....only read on if you don't mind technical aspects of military procedure... ....and I am still upset with GA for having Owen want to re-enlist now....he's just barely started to recover. I totally understand his desire to go back, especially after seeing the determination of the young LT. However, Owen was given an Honourable Discharge which means that the you have shown exemplary service to your country, but his file would state that he is no longer mentally and/or physical fit for command/duty, period. To reverse such an order would be very difficult. Think to the movie Men of Honour with Cuba who had a physical injury. Look at the process he had to go through to get his chance to reverse - but the burden of proof for a physical injury is easier to prove - pass the fitness test. How do you prove that helicopters, or anything that reminds him of a helicopter, are NEVER going to trigger another PTSD episode? As a Major Owen would know that, and our Owen is noble to the point that he wouldn't put his unit in jeopardy. While it's not impossible to reverse, it won't be as simple as walking back into a recruiters office, and Owen still has alot of work to do with his recovery, and I am sure Wyatt wont' be giving him a clean bill of mental health anytime soon. Sorry, but epi 5.23 still falls FLAT for me.
They should have held onto this plot diversion to season 6 when Owen is further in his recovery, more confident, and would have a better shot of overturning his discharge.
The only way I have been able to accept the closet scene, is to take it metaphorically, and interpret it that he is talking about his therapy; that he needs to go back to what happened in Iraq in order to resolve unfinished "business" so that he can truly come home.
Just thought of something, maybe Owen still hasn't let it go. Maybe we will see him working towards returning to duty in season 6, because at no point has he told Cris he is dropping the idea. They are back together, but Cris is assuming that Owen has dropped the idea after her "I don't want you to die" speech.
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ruralstar
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Post by ruralstar on May 16, 2009 10:31:50 GMT -5
OK, had a rewatch, a bit of time to digest it some more....only read on if you don't mind technical aspects of military procedure... ....and I am still upset with GA for having Owen want to re-enlist now....he's just barely started to recover. I totally understand his desire to go back, especially after seeing the determination of the young LT. However, Owen was given an Honourable Discharge which means that the you have shown exemplary service to your country, but his file would state that he is no longer mentally and/or physical fit for command/duty, period. To reverse such an order would be very difficult. Think to the movie Men of Honour with Cuba who had a physical injury. Look at the process he had to go through to get his chance to reverse - but the burden of proof for a physical injury is easier to prove - pass the fitness test. How do you prove that helicopters, or anything that reminds him of a helicopter, are NEVER going to trigger another PTSD episode? As a Major Owen would know that, and our Owen is noble to the point that he wouldn't put his unit in jeopardy. While it's not impossible to reverse, it won't be as simple as walking back into a recruiters office, and Owen still has alot of work to do with his recovery, and I am sure Wyatt wont' be giving him a clean bill of mental health anytime soon. Sorry, but epi 5.23 still falls FLAT for me.
They should have held onto this plot diversion to season 6 when Owen is further in his recovery, more confident, and would have a better shot of overturning his discharge.
The only way I have been able to accept the closet scene, is to take it metaphorically, and interpret it that he is talking about his therapy; that he needs to go back to what happened in Iraq in order to resolve unfinished "business" so that he can truly come home.
Just thought of something, maybe Owen still hasn't let it go. Maybe we will see him working towards returning to duty in season 6, because at no point has he told Cris he is dropping the idea. They are back together, but Cris is assuming that Owen has dropped the idea after her "I don't want you to die" speech.
Yeah the technical issue still screws that scene up for me as well and I've yet to rewatch the ep all the way through. I don't see Owen wanting to return to duty in season six. Rather a possible involvement in helping veterans readjust. A way to continue his healing process by helping to heal others.
Sadly the scene does not work metamorphically. It's a poor plot device and the lack of research used to write it is disappointing given everything else they've done with the character this year.
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Post by kaz on May 17, 2009 4:50:21 GMT -5
I've finally had a chance to read everyone's reviews. Some great comments and thoughts by all. I can see where some things worked for me that didn't work for others and vice versa but overall, I think we pretty much had similar responses. I did want to comment on the technical aspect of Owen's decision in 5.23 though, because my take was a little different. I didn't have a problem with the fact that it would be unrealistic/difficult for Owen to re-enlist, given his situation because he didn't actually take that step. Had they actually shown him going back without having to follow all of the military procedure as set out by cl3me (thank you for clarifying that, by the way), then I would have had trouble but they didn't.
I think it was an irrational, spur of the moment decision for him that he didn't actually think through and I don't think the writers were necessarily telling us that he COULD go back to Iraq, only that in his misguided mind he thinks it is the answer to all his problems. Clearly it's not.
That was just my take.
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Post by cl3me on May 17, 2009 7:52:50 GMT -5
in his misguided mind he thinks it is the answer to all his problems. Clearly it's not.
That was just my take.
Thanks for that perspective. It helps me lighten up a bit about that scene.
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Post by Leanne on May 17, 2009 9:24:56 GMT -5
I've finally had a chance to read everyone's reviews. Some great comments and thoughts by all. I can see where some things worked for me that didn't work for others and vice versa but overall, I think we pretty much had similar responses. I did want to comment on the technical aspect of Owen's decision in 5.23 though, because my take was a little different. I didn't have a problem with the fact that it would be unrealistic/difficult for Owen to re-enlist, given his situation because he didn't actually take that step. Had they actually shown him going back without having to follow all of the military procedure as set out by cl3me (thank you for clarifying that, by the way), then I would have had trouble but they didn't.
I think it was an irrational, spur of the moment decision for him that he didn't actually think through and I don't think the writers were necessarily telling us that he COULD go back to Iraq, only that in his misguided mind he thinks it is the answer to all his problems. Clearly it's not.
That was just my take.
My take was that perhaps Owen was looking for a response from Cris (that she needed him, that she loved him) he needed to hear that his decision was ludicrous he wasn't thinking how, its just a gut instinct and this was an opportunity for Cris to get it out that she would not support such a decision and that she came to the realization that she did not want Owen to die....all this culminated it a nice ending for the two of them with there realization. Also it shows the fear people outside of the army have about the death aspect of war or being in the army. I'm generalizing when I say that the few soldiers I have met in my life (Hubby been one of them) just dont see this fear .
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Geniusmentis
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Post by Geniusmentis on May 17, 2009 10:16:45 GMT -5
I've finally had a chance to read everyone's reviews. Some great comments and thoughts by all. I can see where some things worked for me that didn't work for others and vice versa but overall, I think we pretty much had similar responses. I did want to comment on the technical aspect of Owen's decision in 5.23 though, because my take was a little different. I didn't have a problem with the fact that it would be unrealistic/difficult for Owen to re-enlist, given his situation because he didn't actually take that step. Had they actually shown him going back without having to follow all of the military procedure as set out by cl3me (thank you for clarifying that, by the way), then I would have had trouble but they didn't.
I think it was an irrational, spur of the moment decision for him that he didn't actually think through and I don't think the writers were necessarily telling us that he COULD go back to Iraq, only that in his misguided mind he thinks it is the answer to all his problems. Clearly it's not.
That was just my take.
My take was that perhaps Owen was looking for a response from Cris (that she needed him, that she loved him) he needed to hear that his decision was ludicrous he wasn't thinking how, its just a gut instinct and this was an opportunity for Cris to get it out that she would not support such a decision and that she came to the realization that she did not want Owen to die....all this culminated it a nice ending for the two of them with there realization. Also it shows the fear people outside of the army have about the death aspect of war or being in the army. I'm generalizing when I say that the few soldiers I have met in my life (Hubby been one of them) just dont see this fear . I agree with Kaz and Leanne. Now I don't find anything new to add. Only: - Two good episodes. - Poor George! - Happy for Owen (and Cristina)!
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ruralstar
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Life is a Journey of the Mind. Anything can happen....Just wait
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Post by ruralstar on May 17, 2009 10:36:38 GMT -5
My thanks to Kaz and Leanne for their different perspectives.
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ruralstar
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Post by ruralstar on May 17, 2009 11:51:32 GMT -5
Just something that struck me on rewatching this afternoon. During the surgery to amputate Charlie's leg, Callie asks both Owen and George: "Tell me why we're doing this again?"
I find Owen reaction very interesting in contrast to George.
Owen: "You don't know what's going to happen to this kid. How many fights he could win, how many lives he could save. If you don't do this he's never gonna get the chance. We're not doing harm, we're not hurting him, we are saving him."
George: "We're doing what he wants. It's what he wants. "
I usually find Owen to be the realist because he has seen so much more than any of the doctors he works with. In this case he is coming from a place of passion. He is still looking for other ways to fix his issues. Letting this kid go back to the war zone because he's in 'hell right now." hits Owen in the soul. He may have seen/heard of successful lower leg amputees functioning in the service but that's secondary for his desire to fix Charlie's situation in a way he cannot fix his own. Amputation is an obvious, physical, proactive approach. Owen has to talk things out, possibly medicate to deal with the trauma in his mind. His gains are not always tangible. Charlie may eventually do he same but that's for the future.
George is the realist here. The amputation is what the patient has asked for. It smacks of being unethical but it is a possible option to treat his pain. By no means a certainty. I think his quiet conclusion goes further in convincing Callie than Owen's more assertive declaration.
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Post by MarryMeOwen on May 17, 2009 12:13:07 GMT -5
Just something that struck me on rewatching this afternoon. During the surgery to amputate Charlie's leg, Callie asks both Owen and George: "Tell me why we're doing this again?"
I find Owen reaction very interesting in contrast to George.
Owen: "You don't know what's going to happen to this kid. How many fights he could win, how many lives he could save. If you don't do this he's never gonna get the chance. We're not doing harm, we're not hurting him, we are saving him."
George: "We're doing what he wants. It's what he wants. "
I usually find Owen to be the realist because he has seen so much more than any of the doctors he works with. In this case he is coming from a place of passion. He is still looking for other ways to fix his issues. Letting this kid go back to the war zone because he's in 'hell right now." hits Owen in the soul. He may have seen/heard of successful lower leg amputees functioning in the service but that's secondary for his desire to fix Charlie's situation in a way he cannot fix his own. Amputation is an obvious, physical, proactive approach. Owen has to talk things out, possibly medicate to deal with the trauma in his mind. His gains are not always tangible. Charlie may eventually do he same but that's for the future.
George is the realist here. The amputation is what the patient has asked for. It smacks of being unethical but it is a possible option to treat his pain. By no means a certainty. I think his quiet conclusion goes further in convincing Callie than Owen's more assertive declaration. Exactly I agree with you rural. George was acting on behalf of the patient, callie and Owen were too occupied with how they felt about the situation. I also agree that Owen was just looking for some kind of reaction from Cristina, but I think as well he was afraid to go see his mother still and I think realized that he had to be able to face her before he can move forward in anything.
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ruralstar
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Post by ruralstar on May 17, 2009 12:41:20 GMT -5
Something else I forgot in my original review but did actually catch. In the premiere Derek is very derogatory of Owen and Owen's speciality. More than once this year both Mark and Derek refer to Owen as a 'meatballer' It is Derek who says point blank during the surgery on 'George' that Owen has been 'stepping in front of a bus' for the last couple years in Iraq.
Derek: "You sewed up soliders under fire, you didn't sweep up." As angry and/or confused as everyone was by George's decision to enlist Derek's public acknowledgement of Owen's valuable service is very important to everyone in that room.
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Post by snowbound on May 17, 2009 14:26:09 GMT -5
I really do not think that we saw the curveball at all. Here's the language again (Ausiello teasing about what Kevin said): The only thing that perhaps could account for this is if the curveball is Owen intending to enlist again combined with Shonda not having told Kevin that it would be resolved by the end of the Finale. Ausiello seemed to tease a pregnancy for Grey's until she shot it down. I still think that it was a pregnancy and Shonda changed her mind. Perhaps she's holding onto that storyline for the future. Not that hard to figure out? Yeah , I'm sticking with pregnancy.
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