Community 1x03 Introduction to Film

3 episodes in and Community was cementing as one of the most delightful sitcoms around. A brilliantly funny, silly, heartfelt half hour that may have had a new character come in and basically spell out in not so subtle terms the theme of the ep but used that to show itself a show dedicated to exploring the characters inner lives as much as making references to Dead Poets Society or outrageous sneezes.

And to again harp on about the point of connecting with this show, there are moments here that seem to explore notions of my sense of self identity even when not dealing with any actual similarities to my life. So, of course, this is the first Abed-centric episode.

Abed is shown to have a very hard time understanding, and being understood by, the world around him. His actions are often quite callous, thoughtless and selfish. Friendships and familial bonds can be quite hurtful (in sort of passive non actual damaging ways), something Community would continue to examine throughout its run (particularly in the multiple timelines ep and last one of season 3) but through communication, if that can be achieved, connections are made. Sometimes this means spilling your heart in honest but embarrassing ways or engaging with the world without a cynical remove.

Jeff is still the anchor for the series being involved in the two main plots, which dovetail in a fun way with a kiss that shows the show very much had its eye on the Sam/Diane mode of sitcom arcs and Annie and Shirley are still much in the background (though Shirley gets a bit of personal business, exposing a raw nerve, that Yvette Nicole Brown just nails) but each of that cast gets some great material and Chevy Chase does a lovely bit of work with some various sneezes. John Michael Higgins is wonderful as the Greendale riff on a Robin Williams perennial. 

I absolutely love how Britta is so well meaning and unselfish of her time and money whilst being vaguely racist and condescending, characters are allowed to be both good guy and bad, often at the same time. Likewise the show allows Abed's film to be kinda crummy but it hits home far more than a polished, saccharine take would.

"This is no way to teach accounting!"

"9/11 was pretty much the 9/11 of the falafel industry."

"Pierce will top that in one minute."

"I think I shall have... A birthday cake!"

"Why are you dressed like an '80s rapist?"

"Our first assignment is a documentary. They're like real movies but with ugly people."

Extended version of Six Candles. Not exactly Citizen Kane