|
And
it truly pains me to name my singled most beloved comedy series of all
time in that list, but let's face facts, even the most avid fan would be kidding themselves
if they were convinced that anything Post-Series-Three of medical
comedy Scrubs was up to the quality of it's predecessors. That's not to say there aren't some fantastic moments throughout the fifth season of Scrubs
(which recently signed up with NBC for a seventh and final series in the US,
despite narrowly avoiding the chop), because even during it's weakest
scenes, creator Bill Lawrence and his team can still deliver some
quality laugh-out-loud moments. The major problem throughout
Series V, seems to stem from the fact that the show and the characters
have almost become a parody of themselves. Zach Braff's usual mix of
sweet and the silly gives way for a constant and almost cartoonish
delivery of lines, while John C. McGinley seems to be biding his time -
waiting for a new role to sink his teeth into. And while many would
suggest that it comes down to lazy writing, it seems, that this has
been Bill Lawrence's plan all along. In an interview seen on the Special Features disc, Lawrence discusses how in the first few years of Scrubs,
the idea was to pull viewers in - which they did - with a perfect mix of
drama with dashes of quirky comedy. In fact, it was the amazing drama,
heart and warmth that set the bar for the show - it separated it from
the "Set-Up, Punchline" of Two and a Half Men. However, by Series 5, the crew were aware that they were there to stay and opted for Scrubs to play as a Comedy with a dash of drama. And that's where the problem lies. While
In-Jokes and self referencing are funny throughout a comedy series,
twenty odd minutes of In-Jokes in each episode is utterly pointless
(although, constant references to Elliot looking like Garry Bussey are
welcome at any time of the day!).
Sadly, by the time a serious storyline is attempted (there are some
corkers throughout this series, in particular a two parter which see's
Dr. Cox have a breakdown after losing three patients in one day), there
is simply no
connection or care for the characters whatsoever. And it's a real shame. That
being said, there are some top class episodes throughout Series 5, with
a bevy of quotable quotes as per usual. From the brilliant cameo by Arrested Development's
Jason Bateman as an unappreciated Garbage Man who breeds Emu's, to the
spunky Mandy Moore as J.D's clumsy female equivalent, to the infamous
"Four Story Atomic Wedgie" as received by The Todd - there are plenty
of laughs to be had. However, the clear standout of Series V is the Zach Braff directed 100th Episode entitled "My Way Home". It's
a welcome return to a storyline with substance - along with the
fantastic score by 'Teds Band' (an acapella group who only perform
songs from classic films). While this installment of the Scrubs
franchise doesn't quite live up to expectations, it's still easily one
of the only comedy series you can watch back-to-back on DVD and never
get sick of. Worth the purchase price alone if only to see
more of 'The Brains Trust' (Ted, The Janitor, The Todd and Doug Murphy)
who finally get increased screen time! Dr. Kelso: "Ketchup is for Winners Ted..."
Ted: "Awww Man!" EXTRAS
Extras are never disappointing on the Scrubs
releases, and Series 5 is no different. There are some fantastic
interviews and featurettes (yep - featurettes that you can actually
enjoy and not just skip past!!), as well as deleted scenes and the
fantastic "Alternate Lines" section which displays some of the casts excellent
improv skills. Worth every penny! Conclusion:
Movie 78% Extras: 75%
|
