Season 6, Episode 8: Natural History Discussion
By JD
Our crew gets all dolled up for the fancy life. But have they changed too much? Tonight’s episode examines a rite of passage in adulthood not often seen on TV: selling out and liking it. What does it mean when you realize you’re not who you thought you’d be, but you’re still happy? How do you measure integrity across the decades and stages of your life? How many things can you touch in a museum in one night?
Tonight’s episode was incredible. Everyone had or witnessed a momentous occasion in their lives. The writing was spot-on, stories were handled in a creative and fun way, and there are enough dramatic surprises to lock you back into the series, if you were having any doubts.
Fun stuff: I’m trying a new format tonight! The episode stepped up its game so I’m attempting too as well.
Earning that Maxim Cover
Robin. She worked it. Girl looks damn good in the blue dress and the cool hair. She brought it harder than to the wedding in season one. That’s the sexiest décolletage I’ve seen in some time. Although Zoe is a close runner up. I wonder how she justifies that diamond necklace when she’s so proactive. Maybe she’s just a domestic activist. The best thing about black-tie events beside the free fancy canapés is all the hot ladies. Fo sho.
I like to believe Barney trashed the Natural History museum when he was a wee boy. I do like Robin’s dig at him (and their stories in general) “it’s been about 30 years since that totally made up story didn’t happen.” I also enjoy that a Barney subplot in a museum regards him touching as many things as possible. He’s more than just a sex machine, he’s subversive. And Robin flirting with his challenge and calling him out is very hot. I want to see a short film that just has a Barney we don’t know running into a Robin we’ve also never met at a museum benefit while their attraction grows through each forbidden act they undergo ending with them boning in a sarcophagus or something. Or a montage works.
A Real Man Chooses His Own Name
Have you guys ever met anyone like The Captain? I have. It’s exactly as not fun as it sounds. How much LL Bean can one wear I find myself asking. Ted does a great job of making fun of the dude while seeming interested. That’s an art to perfect, especially in high society. It keeps things interesting and is a great way to make friends. Not with those you’re lambasting, but with the people around you who pick up on the double meanings. They’re surely be friends for life.
Absopositivilutely
Thin a B (C?) plot as it is, I like the LAME storyline. I think it’s something real that a couple who’s been together as long as they have might go through. It’s easy to change your mind about what you think is right for you, it’s harder to have someone there who knew you in college, and explain to them that your dreams are different. As supportive as a spouse can be to help you focus on a dream, they become a casualty when that dream changes. His fake words are funny too. The whole thing reminds me of Life Among the Gorillas where Marshall first realizes he wants to make money in order to provide for Lily. Well he’s fully become the gorilla by now, it’s interesting to take the time to show Lily struggle with the transition.
This is resolved in a really great way. Lily looking into the Extinct College Marshall exhibit is inspired. I am so impressed with what the show brought with this episode. I’ve got a great big smile.
Bring it on, Princess.
“It’s the bug room Ted, and your ass just got bugged”. Zoe is an evil genius. I was just about to write a paragraph about how her honesty was bringing out the sensitive Ted and then she hoodwinked me. I’m a little impressed. She’s the Bond villain. Then Ted goes and kills her with kindness. This, kids, is why you always take the high road. Of course a guy like The Captain would offer to erase that tape, look at his pants. Even Artillery Arthur thinks he’s a douche. What Zoe didn’t bet on was that Ted is a good guy. It’s hard to hate and ruin a good guy. This is also the best writing the show has seen in years. This moment is a major win for the show.
The tête-à-tête Ted shared with Zoe while they danced really brought it home after an episode that worked me up like it was season two all over again. The dialogue is wonderful, flirty, and fun. Ted is charming, devilish, and fearless while Zoe is vulnerable and graceful and utterly feminine. This totally works. It’s a home run.
Uncle Jerry
Ooh, the plot thickens. It’s probably good that Robin was there to witness that. She won’t let Barney bury it but also won’t pry and drag it out of him the way Lily, or even Ted would.
A lot happened tonight, more interesting story movements than all of last year. This show is really operating at a higher level again. It’s making me (almost) forget The Wedding Bride.
Favorite Moments
- Carter really likes getting in crossword references. Dude loves those puzzles.
- “To industry” is my new toast
- I like the return of the Mosby Fun Architecture Facts
- “Yeah, old stuff’s great”
- “If I wanted to make it personal I’d call you a bored little trophy wife who likes to play activist when the shops on fifth avenue are closed.” Damn, Ted has really grown a pair.
- I really enjoy Ted whispering dirty words through the echo corners.
- “How do you like my date’s tux?” Robin is funny tonight.
- “You have a monocle. Is this really happening? Good luck killing James Bond!” I love new Ted so much.
- When cro magnon Robin was startled by King Tut Stinson I actually LOL’d, first time in a while the show’s made me do that.
- It’s adorable to see Robin and Barney still touching stuff while being lectured by museum guy. Robin should’ve been there for Barney’s Laser Tag lecture in the Murtaugh List
- “It’s OK, college Lily thinks those are orgasms”
Galactic President Superstar McAwesomeville
I know that ever since Mandy Moore appeared on the show we’ve been seeing the death of Season One Ted (SOT). That hasn’t always been a crowd pleaser. A lot of people fell in love with SOT because they saw their own sentimentality represented in him. He was the sensitive man’s hero. I was right there with you. But SOT has seen a lot of shit. It’s not until now that I buy his transition. I love New Jaded Ted (NJT). NJT feels more real to me, more fully formed. SOT was a lovely idea but NJT is tangible. Those of you still holding onto the wisp of SOT would do well to know he’ll always exist in the early episodes of the show. But just like Howard, he’s not coming back. Embrace NJT knowing somewhere, deep inside, SOT is still there. We know he is because only SOT would find it necessary to explain all this to his kids. Our friend Ted is like Persephone and the mother is his Hermes, pulling him back from the bitter abyss of NJT to the warmth of SOT.
And I find hope in that. We all feel like NJT sometimes. What better can we hope for than a show that we once loved for its sentimentality and belief in love to show us even in darkness there’s hope for happy futures? Ted is the only one worried about never finding true love, we already know how his story ends.
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73 Comments to “Season 6, Episode 8: Natural History Discussion”
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Ranelle | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 01:52 am GMT -4
Great post JD! I agree… this episode brought the show back to season 1 and 2… some amazing writing.
I wonder what Zoe will be to Ted… it feels like she is becoming a sort of love interest but I bet she helps him find his wife. Unless his future wife is divorced and blonde? (unlike Stella, the kids end up brunette….lol)
The show is definitely back!!
crazy sock guy | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:00 am GMT -4
Great post JD, and on time also!.. keep up the great writing and work!
in my opinion, i really loved this episode.. it feels like everyone get enough portion of story (eventho some of that stories not so important.. :p) and really exceeded my expectation for this week episode. Also, i like how the writers slowly but sure revealing the importance of Zoey.. i like to be teased with some fine progress of story like this episode.
Matthew | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:02 am GMT -4
lol, I stated what I thought about the episode in the other thread. Um, what else can I say?
Lilly’s views on Marshall? Well didnt he only take the job originally to pay off her huge credit card bills? He had no choice. I cant remember the exact episode but I do remember the box of credit cards. So I thought it was a little rough on Marshall there. Well way rough really.
And Id like to reiterate that i think a lot of Barney’s stories are truthful , with obvious exceptions. He does tend to bring out some pretty severe reactions in people.
and yes Robin did look super hot.
Matt | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:06 am GMT -4
I don’t know if it’s the high coming off that amazing episode or not but that was very nicely written. Well done.
Fantastic episode. I thought teds banter the entire episode was awesome. The touching things game didn’t work for me and when I saw the promo highlighting that I was a little worried. Still a great episode. My favorite of this season. They definitely knocked that one out of the park
Brody | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:09 am GMT -4
That was a great review! Game stepped up!
The episode was phenomenal. Totally the best one so far. Things are getting interesting!
JD | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:10 am GMT -4
Thanks guys! I was quite pleased with this recap.
Now go sign up at Gravatar and upload an icon to go with your comments!
John Darc | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:12 am GMT -4
Just started watching the episode. The newspaper Ted is reading has an article about the cockamouse and Dowisetrepla.
crazy sock guy | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:14 am GMT -4
@ Matthew: her box of shame full of credit cards is in the homewrecker in season one. but Actually, Marshall decided to work on GNB not because of that box of shame.. Back then, Marshall got an interview in Nicholson, Hewitt & West. Marshall in GNB started in season four when he was having problem coping with unemployment and not wearing pants problem (The best burger in New York)
Scoundrel | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:15 am GMT -4
I wrote a huge comment about the episode on the other post, but when I submitted it you already disabled comments. Damn you.
In short, I affirmatutely loved the episode. It had season two all over it, I just jumped off my bed to the computer the second I finished watching it. I forgot how many plot-lines can be stuffed to a twenty minutes episode.
I loved Ted’s “Whispering Gallery” fun fact. I myself am interested in architecture, and hearing architecture stuff from Ted is kinda cool for me. It’s great when they first use it as a simple joke, but eventually it helps developing the plot.
Everyone’s plot-lines were great. B&R are so fun together. I’m so happy that the legendary catch-word came back this season.
When I read the interview with the producers I said I’ll believe it when I see it, and I can see it now. I’m so excited, I just hope they’ll keep it up (and from what I heard about the next episode… They probably will).
Colin | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:17 am GMT -4
My initial reactions were already posted in the previous column before this review came along. But another thing I’d like to add is that, unlike my other favorite current sitcom (The Office), HIMYM actually has a story arc going this season. Hell, it has two arcs, those being the Zoe plot and Barney’s dad. These definitely help.
Does anyone remember if Season 5 had a season-long story arc?
Spencer | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:20 am GMT -4
Just finished watching this. Yeah, looks like Bays & Thomas are keeping their word when it came to the selling points. What can I say? I’m hooked again. I don’t know why, I but I love the moments when Barney acts like a human being rather than a character. It’s like seeing that one overtly optimistic person you know have a sad day. It just proves that they’re human and they have emotional struggles and problems just like anyone else.
I also like how Ted handles himself these days. Ted is the guy I want to be. I’m still Season One Ted minus some of the charm and quick wit, but I strive to become Newly Jaded Ted, fine tuned from the perils & tribulations of life’s experiences and loves lost. Five years can completely change one’s self around, and we’re seeing the guy he had to become so he can meet the love of his life; a beautiful story that’s taken 5 years to tell.
I’ll say this: I’ll be very very sad when this show eventually comes to an end.
JD | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:25 am GMT -4
Holy crap, John Darc! How are you man? Still cranky?
John Darc | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:46 am GMT -4
@JD:
I’m doing alright, man. Started coming back around here after that long hiatus and bad season. This season has pleasantly surprised me so far.
Corey | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 02:58 am GMT -4
After reading “This moment is a major win for the show.” I couldn’t help but laugh and repeat Major Win.
But one of the things I love most about this show is the little things they do. Like in this episode having something as simple as the “sandwiches” in the dorm room. I believe Lily’s line at the end of the episode is the same line she says in the first episode after Marshall tells her he doesn’t like olives.
M.A. | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 03:09 am GMT -4
HAHAHAHA after pharoah barney scares robin….
“NILE-d it” whilst doing the walk like an egyptian dance……
this show just regained my love
JAMES | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 04:41 am GMT -4
Wow JD, I’ve been really impressed with your posts lately. I really like your conclusion, very intelligent.
As far as the episode goes, there was not one thing that I didn’t like. I thought this was, by far, the best episode of the season yet. I’m excited to see where this season is going to take us. I’m going to re-watch it so I can soak up the jokes and see if there was anything I missed, but I was very impressed with the episode, deep yet funny, and heartwarming. I actually really liked that LAME had some real marital issues. It was scary for a second, because it was so believable, but then college Marshall was talking to her, which I loved, and I knew all would be right with the world again. haha
My favorite part would be when Ted was saying all these immature and funny ass words to LAME from across the room. Great stuff.
Mantot | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 05:19 am GMT -4
GREAT EPISODE!
Just a quick note,there must be a reason why Zoey use the name “Zoey Pierson” in her newspaper column and not her Husband’s family name (if she really is happily married to The Captain “Zoey Van Smoot” (spelling?).An unhappy marriage or just protecting her husband’s name?Your call.But the cracks are showing nicely to form a more romantic relation between Ted and Zoey.
I am pretty sure that Zoey is not the mother as it is impossible to link Rachel Bilson’s character with Zoey unless…..since the episode where Zoey appeared during Ted’s class,I was wondering….how come an unknown student (Zoey) suddenly appear in an ongoing class during the middle of the semester without raising any question from the rest of the class?
Could it be that Zoey IS a student there too?
Rich | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 07:30 am GMT -4
Excellent episode – the best in a very long time. Great analysis JD. The writing in this episode is top notch (note to buddying writers wanting to hone their skills). It’s quite an achievement to pull so many loose threads together so well in such a short time.
The interaction between the characters is LEGEND… wait, …DARY, especially Barney and Robin. Ted’s interaction with Zoe and the Captain is very good and throughly believable – Radnor is a great actor.
Also, Marshall’s boss deserves mention. Though not one of his best episodes, the character is extremely funny and well played and really adds something to the show. Nice tie-in with “boats” as well.
PS. I stand by what I said a while back – Ted will learn a major lesson through Zoe.
PPS. I feel like Bays & Thomas are dropping subtle hints to the identity of the mother on a regular basis…
Kathleen | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 08:44 am GMT -4
Arent they at the Van Smoot mansion for the wedding in the first episode this season or something? I could swear I heard that name before.
Lolo | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 09:02 am GMT -4
Who’s the master Leroy!!! That was the best line of the show in my book. Taken right from the Last Dragon. Priceless!
JD | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 09:56 am GMT -4
@ Lolo, holy crap, I can’t believe I didn’t pick up on The Last Dragon reference. I love that movie. I wondered what they Leroy line meant. Good call.
Stevo | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:10 am GMT -4
Loved it. Every minute. Best episode in a very long time. Loved B&R, loved Ted – I am really a big fan of him now, I was turned off in season 5 – loved the guard using Legen….hold on a sec….dary.
Favourite two parts were the architectual fun that Ted had and College Barney. The look on his face when Lily said Jane’s Addiction came back almost made me squirt my Coke through my nose.
Can’t wait for next week, I am intrigued in the ted & Zoey story.
Stevo | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:12 am GMT -4
@ Kathleen.
I don’t think it was the mansion in the weding in this season. The apartment they were at for the ritzy party in Robots v. Wrestlers was a Van Smoot thing if I’m remembering correctly.
FrankQB | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:29 am GMT -4
I think I just realized that this episode made me finally get over Ted and Robin getting back together.
Wow.
Mind=blown.
FrankQB | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 11:24 am GMT -4
Also, did anyone else notice the sub-head on the Cockamouse article (to the right of Zoey’s op-ed)? The sub headline read: “No one is safe. Not even your mother.”
I usually hate these random mother conspiracy clues, but that seems like a pretty big flashing light saying that SOMETHING on that page has to do with the mother. I wonder what’s in the crossword clues…
Brian | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 12:53 pm GMT -4
I thought the episode was awesome. Really enjoyed how many callbacks there were, and it seemed like it nailed pretty much everyone at this time in their lives. That was easily Ted’s best architecture fun fact ever!
I watched last night’s episode with a friend who had never seen an episode before and it showed how great the show has been this season for people that have watched the show for years. I loved it, but knew instantly this was a horrible episode for someone to watch for the first time. The jokes in this episode were hiliarous, but with no foundation my friend thought everything was lame.
Mark | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 01:38 pm GMT -4
@ Kathleen
Van Smoot is where Lily and Marshall got married.
bobo100 | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 04:07 pm GMT -4
i know some of you might think this is crazy but in my opinion (and this coming from a guy that watched himym season 1-5 seven to eight times) this is the best episode i’ve ever seen and that’s because of zoey she’s awesome i wish se turns out to be the mother
i know he met the mom the day of a wedding but couldn’t it have been one of his friends’ weddings like brad for example
so they might say that they attended the wed and at night met zoey
and as far as i’m concerned they never said what zoey does so she might as well be a student
Ayah | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 05:03 pm GMT -4
I obviously loved the episode, A, B and C plots (which is not often the case!)
Cheers to you JD, I reeally liked this week’s post! Nice to see the show inspires you again. I wasn’t looking forward to next episodes that much either, but now I’m caught in it again. Love the SOT /NJT thing!
NCUK | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 05:14 pm GMT -4
best moment: ted saying “gonads” hilarious.
Marcy | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 06:24 pm GMT -4
Best episode this season! Loved every bit of it. It’s so good to see HIMYM getting back it’s spark after last season.
College Marshall is long gone, which might be sad, but hey, Corporate Marshall will be gone in some time as well. As we know from “How I met everyone else” he will be able to confiscate sandwiches off some kids by the age of 42, so I guess he’ll be either a judge or a prosecutor. So no worries Lily
Also, the Barney/ Robin storyline was great. I’m still a BRo supporter, and this episode showe, why they are so awesome together. Robin is the only one who is actually able to handle emotional Barney the right way…
And as for Ted, well, it is on
We’ve seen some sparks there, but I highly doubt there will be anything going on between Ted and Zoe.
Ah, I can’t wait for the next episode!
Steve | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 08:24 pm GMT -4
I haven’t posted a response in a good while (but have checked in to the blog weekly)…
While it may not have had the greatest comedic impact, this was *easily* the best serial-plot episode since 3-05 (“How I Met Everyone Else”), and turned something of a corner for the HIMYM gang. We have long-term plots established, some deeper-seeded issues from the past given their conclusions, and overall some great writing as well.
The show needs this every once in a while – a “review” type of episode where the characters establish their place in the world. If HIMYM has indeed jumped the shark (as I believe it did sometime in season 4), this could be the thing that brings it back or, more likely, sends it to its justified conclusion in the next 38 episodes.
I love to have the funny episodes where it’s not really about the character development as much as the jokes, but the serial plot-lines are what brought me to the show in the first place, and it’s good to see them coming back.
—
This episode is, both chronologically and serially, an ACT BREAK episode.
If HIMYM is retained to Season 8, this is the start of the 3rd act.
If HIMYM is not carried past Season 7, this begins the 4th act.
Either way, it certainly FEELS like something new, a re-establishment of the character positions and stories.
—
Of course, I could be wrong and this episode could just be summed up as “Always have a C plot, goddammit!”
BGeo | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 08:53 pm GMT -4
Great recap JD, and nice to see a few old faces around here again
Matthew | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 09:01 pm GMT -4
Quote:
FrankQB | about 10 hours ago
I think I just realized that this episode made me finally get over Ted and Robin getting back together.
Wow.
Mind=blown.
End quote
Okay im confused, when did Ted and Robin get back together?
Also more importantly, Im not understanding why Robin was at the party. I understand why Ted was there (employed by GNB), why the Barnacle was there (Mid/High Level management) , Marshall (Mid/High Level Lawyer), Lily (Spouse). Robin though surprised me. Im not complaining though. Did she come as Barney’s 1?
PS:
Barney is nearly always with his prop iphone. Does NPH get his lines delivered to that phone?
. Cast your mind back to previous seasons/episodes. How many times has Barney had that in his hand for little to no reason?
Fabio | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 09:55 pm GMT -4
WOW…this recap blew me away just as much this episode did. Nice work JD!
JD | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:04 pm GMT -4
@Fabio (and others) Thanks so much! I was really inspired for this one.
Fabio | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:06 pm GMT -4
Just testing my gravatar lol
Amy | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:08 pm GMT -4
You eluded to Persephone in a write up. . . I think I love you JD
I loved this episode. Maybe its because I’m a history nerd, maybe because museums make me happy, maybe because they straight up had the sets in a museum setting which was amazing.
But yes, this episode rocked. Although a little part of me cringed every time Robin or Barney touched something… UGH I never touch things that say Do Not Touch. Haha. I’m also glad that Barney inadvertently learned who his father was. It was sort of driving me nuts not knowing. Now the question will be – is there an actor who could possibly play this man?
JD | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:22 pm GMT -4
@Amy: aww, you’re a museum nerd, I think I love you.
Good question about Barney’s dad. Good enough for it’s own post! Watch for it tomorrow.
Amy | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 10:26 pm GMT -4
Hey guys –
So I just thought about this when I read Marcy’s comment.
Marshall won’t be a corporate lawyer forever, in fact, in the episode where Lily and Marshall do the death folder thing we see a snippet into the future.
Now from the accessories on the desk and other things in the room myself and others think Marshall will one day be a judge.
Wouldn’t that be totally awesome. Marshall would be hilarious in a court room.
Susan | Tuesday, November 9th, 2010 11:09 pm GMT -4
I loved this episode as well. Barney knows who his dad is!
Not too many people have commented on the Marshall-Lily sub-plot but I thought it was really poignant. People change as they get older, and it can be hard on loved ones. I wrote more about it here:
http://generationxpired.blogspot.com/2010/11/natural-history-of-growing-up.html
FrankQB | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 12:47 am GMT -4
@Matthew
They never did get back together. I should have specified that I am now over the idea of them never getting back together again. At least I think i’m over it.
I think I was just projecting my Cobie Smulders love onto Ted.
Joben | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 12:57 am GMT -4
Holy crap! That’s one of the best HIMYM episodes in all 6 Seasons!!
Just an awesome episode with tons of forwarding stories left and right. Plus it brought the funny!
Just wow! =D
jackdavinci | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 01:01 am GMT -4
Great episode! But I think we really really need to see an HD screencap of that newspaper!
JC | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 01:26 am GMT -4
Great episode and great review! I love NJT! (and I’m trying to like Zoe)
@jackdavinci I agree! Would love to hear from anyone who was able to freeze and read the paper or complete the crossword puzzle.
IIRC, there were two different newspapers shown, is that correct?
Major Buzzkill | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 05:43 am GMT -4
Well, I don’t have to say it now but I will: awesome episode. Everyone knows it, apparently. And I hope that doesn’t just include the fans. The writers have to know that there were missteps last year but also deserve to know just how well they are doing this season. Great job, guys and gals.
As usual, the thing that struck me most about this episode in the end was probably Barney’s storyline with his dad. Here he was having a hilarious and wonderfully flirtaceous plot with Robin (which, by the way, just reminded me more and more why they are perfect together) and then WHAM. That was a total shock. NPH as usual handled the sharp shift into drama really well. This is probably the third time I’ve teared up during a Barney plotline this season.
And that, in short, explains why classic HIMYM and this year of HIMYM are so great. Every single plotline in this episode was both funny and heartfelt. You just don’t see that happening this well on TV. I sincerely hope they keep this up for the duration of this wonderful series.
NCUK | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 07:31 am GMT -4
marshall would make a great judge!!
barney’s father would have to be awesome, especially if he was involved in the case of the blue whale.
I have to say I have one criticism about this episode, that stopped it being perfect:
the casting of Kyle MacLachlan as “the captain”. I know that he was meant to be douchey, and it is probably just me that dislikes him but he just creeps me out, he keeps sneaking onto shows i like and it makes me sad. Just a silly vendetta but i was still like nooooooooooooooo why why why!! when i saw him.
sorry guys for ranting i just really dislike him.
awesome episode though..
Marcy | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 07:36 am GMT -4
Yes, the way they turned the funny Barney/ Robin plot around and dropped the „Barney´s dad”- bomb was amazing. (Oh and I loved the way the guard said legen… dary
). What an irony. Barney decided he didn’t want to know who his dad was and suddenly fate simply forced that knowledge onto him. And the way Robin tried to get Barney to not know, just as he wanted back then, after James found his dad was really just sweet. But yeah, sometimes just do know…
Now, I actually wonder how long it will take Barney to do something about knowing. Will he do anything about it at all? Will we actually ever see an actor play his dad? Oh those questions…
Matthew | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 07:50 am GMT -4
I think it would really turn the story on its head if Barney’s dad had died already. I know it would be sad but I think stunt casting his father wouldnt be that cool, and might backfire a lot. Or if they did cast his father, that he was more like Ted. So we can see Barney is nothing like his dad.
MY ‘secret’ wish is that they cast Bob Saget as his dad in his first screen time in the series. Not only would that be utterly bizarre but I think comically great!
Marcy | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 10:07 am GMT -4
Bob Saget as Barney´s dad? Mhmm… interesting idea, but somehow also quite odd… Personally, I´d opt for Barney not trying to contact his father for quite some time, and when he does, maybe show it in the very last seconds of an episode and not show the father at all, just Barney´s expression when he sees him with an old Ted voiceover…
DiceK | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 11:28 am GMT -4
I wonder how noone’s talked about Robin with the penguin. “None for him, he’s stuffed.” And then Robin laughing hysterically at her own joke! The sort of words that make us all love the Robin we know.
Matt | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 11:51 am GMT -4
I haven’t been able to read all 51 comments, but I think it’s important to note that if Zoe’s story about getting married at 22 is to believed, then it’s unlikely that she is Cindy’s roommate (i.e. the mother)…which is unfortunate.
But you never know…maybe Zoe has a secret life away from The Captain. An apartment she stays at when The Captain is out on his boat.
Kosko | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 11:54 am GMT -4
Hey
has anybody know the name of the song while Ted and Zoe are dancing?
Matt | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 11:59 am GMT -4
One other thing…
WIENERS AND GONADS!
BG | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 12:43 pm GMT -4
As I said in the other discussion I loved this episode, JD fantastic recap I really enjoyed reading it. It may be blasphemous to say this but this is possibly my favorite episode of all time, I loved everything about it. Looking forward to 8PM Monday already
aldrin justice | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 02:05 pm GMT -4
hey jus read that people wanna know what zoey’s article said… considerin i have a lot of time on my hands i typed it up
the third paragraph is the best! here goes:
GNB taking from the Have nots, giving to the Haves.
by zoey pierson
As any resident of this great city knows our cultural heritage is rapidly being swallowed by the insatiable forces of real estate development. Beautiful old buildings with more history in the staircases than all of Times Square combined are dwindling. It’s become the depressing reality of living in a culture that has no appreciation for the accomplishments and monuments of previous generations.
But when corporate forces conspire to not only rip out our urban history but also displace the weakest among us this is when we must fight the tides of development and take a stand. Goliath national bank, the black squid of wall street, has chosen for it’s new altar to greed the grand old arcadian hotel. The rich history of this hundred year old domicile includes stays by the king and queen of Portugal, the dukes of York, Devonshire and hazards and a temporary residency by artist wavy gravy. Today the classic, neo-gothic structure is permanent home to over 200 low income occupants, many of whom are families with children. All of whom will be evicted as soon as construction begins. But does gnb care? No! the only thing gnb cares about is impressing their fat cat client base with another lavish venue for parties and conspiratorial back room meetings. Well I’m here to tell them they’ll be having cocktail hours amidst the ghosts of newly homeless children. They’ll be discussing the NASDAQ on the stacked bodies of bed less widows.
The unwelcome new addition to midtown of a garish, glass and steel monolith is made all the worse by the unsightly billboard on the front of the egocentric architect of destruction, Ted Mosby. Mosby, chose to dress in a wizard’s costume for the banner, taunting the entire city as if the destruction of lives and history is nothing more than a jovial costume party for him. This fat cat architect has forgotten the whole point of his architectural training is to create, not destroy, but I’m sure its easy to forget your purpose while you’re getting drunk of champagne and power.
So what can we do as a city to stop the forces of evil from cannibalizing our city into an endless string of ATMs and starbucks? As an organizer for the social-action group “save the Arcadian” I’ve scheduled pickets for every morning outside the current offices of gnb from now until the scheduled day of demolition of the arcadian. If you’ll join me the true voice of not only our generation but of all the past generations that wishes to see this town stay as beautiful as it’s always been.
We must take a stand now against mosby, gnb and their ilk or pretty soon the Haves will have plundered and destroyed everything, leaving us all Have nots.
Thomas | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 02:12 pm GMT -4
Yep, this goes down as a classic HIMYM episode. I don’t like to compare it with specific favourites from earlier seasons, they have the benefit (or curse depending on your view) of repeated viewings. But I do know there are few I’ve enjoyed as much as this one first time around.
Matt | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 02:16 pm GMT -4
@ aldrin justice
Nice work!
JC | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 04:12 pm GMT -4
@aldrin justice – Wow much appreciated! Thanks for sharing.
@Kosko – re: the song. I just read the info on that last night, at the top of this page go to: music > season 6
Cacá | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 07:03 pm GMT -4
That’s the stuff!! An impeccable episode.
I’m finally liking Zoey, and how she brings the worst on Ted. He’s not Mr. Nice Guy anymore, doing everything to please. His obsession with the man on the monocle, how he couldn’t help making fun of him was hilarious. And I always like his ‘architecture fun facts’. I love SOT, but I’m really liking NJT. What a great way to put things JD!!!
What about ‘The Captain’ and his red pants? Old stuff is great…
The LAME storyline was pretty good too. And I’ll just say: Extinct College Marshall and his big sandwich. Can’t wait to see how Corporate Marshall becomes extinct as well.
And uncle Jerry! I didn’t see that coming. It was a silly (and funny) storyline about touching things on the museum, and, all of the suddenly, it was an emotional one! BTW, an episode like that makes me remember why I’m such a R/B fan. They’re great together. I really like that not everything Barney tells is a lie. The blue whale story was legen – hold on – dary!
Jazzer | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 08:58 pm GMT -4
B-e-a-utiful. Just, beautiful. The writing, everything. Except the touching things bit. That kinda ruined it for me, until the last 5 minutes, and the whole Jerry thing and the great end.
It’s season 6 people. Shit just got real.
Matthew | Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 10:58 pm GMT -4
I had a lol moment as the Robin Half shot panned out and as soon as she started to say ‘Get your other hand …’ I knew exactly what she was going to say. What got me was Barney apologising for it!
The No … No thing later on brought me memories of the Blah, Blah episode.
Seeing College Marshall again was good. Hearing a Jane’s Addiction mention was also great.
charizard | Thursday, November 11th, 2010 01:10 am GMT -4
Great, great episode. Someone else suggested that perhaps Zoey (Zooey? Zoe? I have no idea how to spell it anymore.) is the sister of the mother, explaining why her maiden name appeared in the article, and why future Ted would even mention it in his narration. And I haven’t been able to shake the notion since.
Anyway, it was a really great episode in the aspect that it didn’t leave anyone out, and kept me wondering “What’s gonna happen next?”
I like the “No one is safe. Not even your mother.” headline about the cockamouse. And the return of sandwiches. And Lawyered.
Fbowa | Thursday, November 11th, 2010 02:59 am GMT -4
I’ll have to agree with everyone that this was a fantastic episode. It was truly heartbreaking when Barney said “Don’t tell anyone about this, okay?” to Robin. I really felt for him, and I feel like this is the beginning of Barney maybe changing quite a bit.
Also, Zoe doesn’t wear a hat for the first time on the show. At least I think that’s the case.
marggis | Thursday, November 11th, 2010 04:38 am GMT -4
Oh, the callbacks, I loved them. Earlier this season I felt a bit let down, because of Marshall explaining his Star Wars joke. But the sandwich doesn’t get explaining, yay! I don’t really know what to say. I loved that for once Barney’s (unbeliavable) story was true, every bit of it (not to count the uncle/father thingie).
Thanks for the post JD! Really good work.
And also thanks for aldrin justice.
TheFace | Thursday, November 11th, 2010 06:04 pm GMT -4
See, I must say that I’m fine with NJT and it makes sense as a logical progression for a person.
Let me tell you from experience that the hopeless romantic “I love you” on the first date thing doesn’t get you anywhere.
Future Ted said at the beginning of Season 4, “This is the story of how I became who I had to be so that I could meet your mother.”
That romantic stays in there, but you have to get over a few things and shatter some unreasonable beliefs, and the experiences that Ted has had since then have helped that. Ted isn’t a dreamy-eyed girl planning his own wedding anymore, and that’s good, because if that’s all that he was, the mother would have laughed in his face and moved on to the next guy.
I underwent this same sort of progression in my life and would not be happily engaged in an early Marshall and Lilly sort of relationship if I hadn’t done so.
PaKo89 | Friday, November 12th, 2010 07:22 am GMT -4
Man i’m still smiling when I think about this ep. Loved all the callbacks in the newspaper (Cockamouse,DOWISETREPLA), what does “no one is safe even your mother ” mean?
Barney’s british accent was awesome as was the legen hold on dary line.
Ted was funny, Robin looked smokin hot , they even had dinosaurs skeletons. Can’t wait for next week.
Michel | Friday, November 12th, 2010 11:42 pm GMT -4
Have u thought about doing a pod cast instead of writing down the reviews???
Good work anyways!!! Greetings from Sweden!
JD | Saturday, November 13th, 2010 01:06 am GMT -4
@Michel: I think I’m better suited to writing. Some people are good talkers, I think I’m a better writer.
Amnaya | Saturday, November 13th, 2010 11:13 am GMT -4
I just love this show..i have watched each episode of each season atleast 5 times..n i just love this show..
Ricky Kidd | Saturday, November 13th, 2010 12:42 pm GMT -4
Really liked this one. Surprised me, actually, since the only other Season 6 episode so far worth its salt was “Baby Talk.” But the callbacks were fresh, the storylines interesting, and the much-talked-about emotional heft was there in spades. Well done, finally, team.
Love the theory of Zoey being Ted’s future sister-in-law. Makes perfect sense, especially given how the writers have claimed Zoey as the most important new character in years.
Did anyone else notice that Barney’s blue whale incident happened on Robin’s birthday? Can’t remember if the show has ever given Robin’s birth year, but 1981 sounds about right.
Rhenan | Friday, November 19th, 2010 12:40 pm GMT -4
Dude, this review, like the episode itself, is also a homerun.
Seriously, congratulations.
Natural History is the greatest writing ever made to a sitcom, despite HIMYM is not entirely sitcommy.
True Story.
Rainy | Saturday, November 20th, 2010 04:27 pm GMT -4
I don’t know what other people think about this episode, but I just love it. This is a really epic episode for me. It shows the progress in every character and the ending leads to a new beginning (which why I love this show) of every character. I love how Ted Fun Architecture Facts turn out to be something more. Zoe’s a great character, she would be my nominees for the mom. Lily and Marshall plot is really good today. The way it surprised us to know that Marshall has move on from his dream long ago, and finally grows up. And the ending even makes it better. Finally, the Bros are back! I just love when Barney and Robin do crazy things together. This is what makes me want to see them together from the first season. Robin looks gorgeous this evening, and she’s just the Robin I love! It also leads us to our biggest surprise this evening, Uncle Jerry. I just can’t get enough from HIMYM.