Stevie Nicks' 2001 song "Fall from Grace" aptly captures House M.D.'s central trio of characters in the series' episode of the same name.
I suppose this commentary might be titled: “Why I Didn’t Hate This Week's House, M.D. Episode.” But it’s not my job to offer a defense of a series, even one that has fed my obsession for nearly seven years. Each person has to decide for him or herself whether the series is what you bought into whenever you began watching;whether it’s better or worse; whether you still enjoy it or it aggrieves you to watch it. For my part, I’m on this ride for the duration (or until I’m not). I may not like every minute of that ride, or where the driver is taking us—but I won’t know until I get there (or get off). …
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Article comments
— go to most recent comments26 - Heather
I found the entire episode very unconvincing.
I understood what the episode was *trying* to do, but I felt it failed in a big way.
It was like a fanfiction author trying to write like Joyce...I could recognize at a distance what was being attempted...but the end product in front of me was forced, ridiculous, and shallow.
27 - RobF
Excellent review! I had no idea the episode title was a reference to that song, but it fits.
This episode was House being depressed and reverting to his old "jerk" defense mechanism to keep people away.
People who are depressed and discouraged about relationships often say things like "any (wo)man is like any other -- marriage is only tax benefits and rubbing naughty bits, so it doesn't matter who your partner is." Following this logic, House has found a woman who will cause him no heartache while saving him lots of money. He even prints out some colourful charts to prove the advantages of the deal.
Of course it is all nonsense, and a normal person is soon talked out of this way of thinking by his friends and family. House doesn't have that support group. The show is a look at a man who lives outside of society, making his own decisions while deliberately avoiding convention and peer influence. Sometimes, this freedom allows him to have brilliant successes nobody else would have. Other times, like now, he makes horrible choices. That is the character.
From a story arc perspective, the main function of this episode was to put a definitive end to the House-Cuddy relationship, at least for the near future. We know they love each other and want to be together; the writers had to find a way to keep them apart so the story could go elsewhere. Resuming their relationship was made impossible once Cuddy signed the insurance form. She knew it, and so did House.
As for the rumours that events on the show are another dream or hallucination, I can't believe the wild theories. There is no way that Masters is an hallucination, some imaginary alter ego of House. The only situation that seems at all plausible is that House didn't land in the pool, and is once again dreaming while in a hospital bed. But I don't think that's very likely.
28 - barbara barnett
Ladidah! You make some really interesting points. All during the episode I found the patient creepy, and didn't realize why until the end, of course (great acting, imho). I hadn't noticed that he'd pushed each persons button specific to that person. Even more creepy. I do think what he says to House resonates very deeply. You can see it on his face, and the closeup suggests that's what we're supposed to take away from that encounter.
huddycat--it will be a long haul (if it ever happens). We've seen this very long arc drawing them together; we've had them together a very short time, before it exploded on House (especially). Now comes the damage--and eventually the repair/damage control/and hopefully eventual redemption. If the series were ending next week, I'd say "no hope" but it's not. :)
fatOlady--great to see you over here on this thread. Thank you for your kind words. I think the last couple of episodes were probably meant to be uncomfortable to watch and not enjoyable in a way. We see the world through House's POV, and he is very, very bad off right now. This arc (as all the creative team have said) will play out over six episodes, and that's a long time. Will he fall further? Maybe it will get worse before it can even begin to get better.
Who knows? Maybe we're all meant to feel as crappy as House is feeling at this moment in time.
29 - RobF
@ladidah / barbara -- the patient was definitely a violent psychopath who revealed several phony sides of himself, each designed to win sympathy from a particular doctor. Taub was onto him (perhaps because Taub was recently disappointed by trusting the disturbed high-school student and is now on guard), but Taub's attempt to expose the psychopath's tactics failed. You may be able to con a con man, but you can't do so if you are as obvious about it as Taub was.
Psychopaths often instinctively know what will work to gain the sympathy of anyone they encounter.
When dealing with Masters, the patient played the part of a fundamentally good person who has regrets about the past and just needs somebody to show faith in humanity. Masters wants to prove to House (and to herself) that showing faith in people does help them be better.
Chase is trying to change himself, and his background is deeply religious, so he bought into the patient's story about being reborn to follow God's plan for himself.
Foreman, as usual, didn't care one way or the other. The patient had no need to fool Foreman because Foreman doesn't care. This says a lot about Foreman.
House didn't believe anything the patient said, but was too wrapped up in his own drama to give the patient his full attention.
30 - sherlockjr
Cath --
I found it fascinating that you said:
"...it's just that I seem to have been very trusting lately, and now that I have been hurt, it's only naturally for me to be protective and guard myself against those that cause me pain. I hope you get what I am trying to convey here. It might sound like an overly emotional fan's reaction, but I guess this is what happens when one gets too invested."
Because, of course, that's exactly what House is doing in reaction to Cuddy's dumping him. Or did you intend to draw that parallel?
31 - barbara barnett
Yes! Yes!
In my post above, I said that perhaps the whole point has been to make us feel terrible. It's a brilliant observation, Cath--and Sherlockjr.
32 - rjw
Barbara,
Have to admit that at first viewing,I wasn't all that thrilled with this episode.I may like it better once I've seen it again.The truck scene was definitely over the top,but then again,House is back on the Vicodin,and pretty much off his rocker!The ending (with the patient) had to be the creepiest ending ever.It had that ewwww! factor.House's diagnosis gave the patient the idea that his cannibalism was okay (not that they knew he was doing that).I was glad to see Cuddy finally stand up to House (not that I liked the breakup),and felt bad for Dominika,even though she knew the marriage was a sham.Can I assume that it's not even legal,since Chase performed the ceremony,and was only designed to get back at Cuddy? I have liked Kelley's previous scripts,and his interview does give some insight into what he (and the writing staff) was thinking.
33 - fatOlady
Barbara - If it is true that the intention was that WE all feel as "crappy as House is feeling at this moment in time", then BRAVO to the writers, as they have most definitely hit their mark.
I will have to grudgingly give them "kudos" for masterfully touching a raw nerve in the fandom "if that is their intention".
I have re-watched the episode twice looking for some redeeming quality tossed in with all the “stuff”. Your review made that SO MUCH EASIER, thank you. I have decided that I am “over thinking” where the writers are taking us this season. I EXPECTED it to go a certain way, and it didn’t, so I was disappointed and disappointment created anger.
I have decided that I am taking this all too seriously AND too personally (a big drawback to being a super fan). I need a bit more objectivity. I need to just accept what is; and go with the flow. So, I re-watched the episode with more objectivity (and after reading your review). It is amazing how much more I appreciated a great deal of the episode and actually thought parts were funny. The POTW is still a little to “dropped in from outer space” for me.
I know it won’t be popular, but I actually like Dominica. Aside from the obvious obstruction she creates for House and Cuddy, I think she is a nice, cheerful, generous, and likable character. I won’t mind seeing more of her and I think she actually appreciates House (even CRAZY House). It might be fun, hey, it could happen.
34 - barbara barnett
fatOlady--I applaud what you have to say. I know everyone's been upset 'round these parts. And part of the reason for wanting to do a second article (after I said to some I wouldn't) was to give people a chance to distance from the episode and perhaps take an alternate view of what was going on. So thanks so much for that!
35 - ruthinor
Barbara, interesting analysis about the Stevie Nicks song. I haven't seen most of the episode due to DVR failure, but I'm assuming that the song was not part of the episode? If so, I wonder why not?
But I have to say that we part ways when you say things like this:
"No matter what he has done (or couldn’t do) for Cuddy in her hour of need, he did the best he could."
You and others always excuse House's behavior by saying he's doing the best he could. He really had to annoy Cuddy with all the stupid little things he did at her house, door slamming, toothbrushes, toilet seat etc.? All small things but cumulatively very irritating. He HAD to get drunk tell her that he just loved her to death but she made him a crappier doctor? He managed to show up for Wilson's surgery and stayed by his bedside afterward. After finding out that Cuddy wasn't dying after all, why wasn't he with her? Why did she have to come to HIS place to have it out? So they end the episode on his bathroom floor? I think he was continually testing her limits. I don't think he was doing the best he could do. I think he was doing the best he WANTED to do. There's a difference. I guess I've just lost all empathy for his character, and these last few episodes haven't helped. I know I'm in the minority here!!
36 - barbara barnett
Ruthinor--actually we agree on this to some extent. House's annoying behavior (and there are many, many men who annoy byt the little things while being wildly romantic at the same time). Those things add up, and I completely get where Cuddy is coming from. Her breakup with House has much to do with a cumulative effect of his actions, and I don't excuse them.
But those are all things that are "him". To him they are trying. To her they are trying. I think in Bombshells he believed himself less than useless in comforting her. In his warped mindset about himself, House believed that sending emissaries or doing nothing at all was better than screwing it up. (This is what he believes in his screwed up sense of himself.)
He was afraid and in pain (and he deals with both things badly). To come out of himself he needed (again, not excusing his behavior) what he thought was help to face his pain enough to face hers. That's all I'm sayin'.
37 - Heatherb84
Ruthinor- I wondered the same thing about him staying by Wilson's side and not Cuddy's. Hmmm. Things to think about now!
38 - simona
barbara, I have loved so much this episode, so sad and painful. The abused patient who returns to the repetitive cycle of violence because no one has been able to help him develop his past as a battered child.
This season is surprising me, in a positive way. About Huddy, the more I watch the episodes, the more they seem odd, the more my faith increases (do you know that around the web there is a very smart and brilliant theory about the meaning of all the characters acting OOC after Unwritten? I don't know if I can post here a link...tell me if i can).
I think that the promotional pics of House the Clown were really appropriate.
So much sadness hidden under the surface.
39 - ruthinor
Barbara, I guess we'll just have to disagree about this! To me, when you say that he behaves a certain way because it's HIM, and that it's the best he can do, you ARE excusing his behavior, and furthermore, putting all the blame on Cuddy! My point earlier was that the writers have made Cuddy less sympathetic because we know so little about her (and the other female characters) other than through her relationship with House. We tend to excuse House because we think we know him. But what do we know about Cuddy's prior life? She's lousy at relationships, but why? How has she been hurt? How easy could it have been for her to get to the position she's in now? I actually hate the fact that she's been made to feel so guilty. I wish she would just smack House in the puss and be done with it!! Again, I know I'm in the minority here!!
40 - A Terrible Spectator
28-Barbara
"Who knows? Maybe we're all meant to feel as crappy as House is feeling at this moment in time"
It is a very good appreciation on your part. Maybe the writers intended us to feel at the same point in which House is now. Really are getting. the viewers are sad, we feel anxiety, we are concerned, we do not know what will happen, we are distressed ... WOW ... Really, we feel like House. We are lost!
On the other hand, my congratulations again for your always encouraging comments!
You were right about this new space. It seems that we are gradually leaving the black hole.
41 - josie
#39 ruthinor--I think the writers want us to be more sympathetic to Cuddy than House. Although I still find it hard to be believe that while they had been together, she would not have encouraged him to follow through with his therapy. Here's my theory about why she's terrible at relationships: As a child, Cuddy's mother recognized her as smart and pushed her to succeed. She did not coddle her, pushed her a bit too far, and they did not form a strong bond between mother and child. Arlene did not do this with Cuddy's sister Julia, and they are close. Cuddy was probably jealous of Julia and Arlene's relationship, became resentful, resulting in a poor relationship with her sister, too. I believe the reason that she's terrible in relationships is because she has in the past felt insecure within her own family. How do you take an emotional risk with people outside of your family when you don't feel love and anchored within your family?
Speaking of family, it's about time to see Mama House! It's waaaaaaay overdue. How's she going to feel with a hooker daughter-in-law?
42 - RedTulip_Ana
38 - simona
The theory of hallucinations (well, that House is in a coma) and was published in a post on the review of the previous episode.
In this blog, there are people who want to cling to that theory. Many of the things he says Maya make sense. I think that makes a really good analysis. It all fits. But I think it's better now that we dedicate ourselves to analyze everything we've seen (which has appeared in episodes) rather than speculate on anything that we believe there is (but we have not been shown).
It is possible that in the end, the whole history of coma is real, but if the writers are showing us this other view (but ultimately is at the head of House) is because they want to see what they show us that we reflect on what we see. And what we now see is a broken relationship, a fake marriage, an excess of drugs and alcohol ... but above all two people sad: Cuddy (who could not handle his relationship with House, but she loves him dearly) and House (who could not do better with Cuddy). Both are depressed. Now they have to fix things.
Lisa Edelstein said, "things will get worse and then get better for everyone."
I believe in it. And I sincerely hope that House and Cuddy finally may have a relationship. Maybe all these bad times worth it. Because there is nothing sadder than to love someone with all your strength, but you can not stand by his side.
A Spanish singer: Jarabe De Palo: "How do you want to be my friend?" If I give my life for you ...". It is very pretty. And express that feeling.
Just say, we'll have to wait until the end to see the end!
43 - Jaim
ruthinor,
I always love your comments. You are not alone in thinking that House has not done his best. I really don't understand why everyone always excuses his behavior but then dumps all over Cuddy. He is a 51 year-old man. He needs to act like it once in a while.I think that is another aspect of this episode that really annoyed me. He's always been immature but never to this extent. The whole Dominica thing seems even out of character for him, because he never takes these types of connections lightly. I also don't know what is happening with the images of women on this show. If he does get romantically involved with her, then what message are they sending? A submissive woman who lets him do whatever he wants equals true love? This is really disturbing to me. Even though he didn't sleep with her in this episode doesn't mean he won't eventually sleep with her, especially if she sticks around. There are so many other ways that they could have explored House's post break up coping and they chose one of the most absurd story lines to use. The realism seems lost with episodes like this.
44 - RobF
@fatOlady(33) -- I also like Dominika. She is very nice, and isn't kidding herself about the situation. I will like to see more of her back story.
Now that they are actually married, House realises he doesn't want to be the oppressor in a relationship in which he has all the power. She would naturally despise him, and he would despise himself.
But he is also somewhat responsible for her now. House has spent most of his life avoiding having anyone depend on him (he has always resisted even Wilson and Cuddy looking to him for support), but now he can't escape the fact that this girl's future depends on him.
There is also the problem that he will go to jail if they are discovered to be in a sham marriage.
45 - Joan
Given that Dominica's contractual role is that of agreeable companion/housemaid/whore in exchange for a green card it seems highly unlikely that she is going to do anything other than continue to enable House in anything he does, not exactly be the voice of control or reason. She went through the whole ep apparently unaware of any of the dark currents going on under the surface and just did whatever House wanted her to do. For an addict with House's narcissism she is the perfect enabler -- he gets whatever he wants and she makes no demands on him. Developing her into someone who will be able to stand up to House or confront him about any of his behaviors seems unlikely and a stretch since she risks her benefits if she gets annoying.
I too thought that House was hoping Cuddy would refuse to sign the papers but he also should have known that when they match wills she is just as likely to call his bluff so he might have had a plan B in mind. I thought they both looked let down here at the way it turned out in that scene. Even more so at the wedding when he was staring at Cuddy the whole time he said the vows. That said, why would he actually go through with the marriage? None of the possibilities seem very credible -- just to call her bluff, to hurt Cuddy, to make really really sure they can't get back together, to need company so much he is willing to share his private domain with a complete stranger, to save money on maids/hookers? The show is so down on all relationships and marriage ever having a chance generally, and now this bizarre sexist business arrangement of a marriage seems even more of a mockery.
46 - Elisabeth
Thanks everyone - it's good to have a non-ranting review and analysis space.
I really liked the POTW - he was perfectly creepy and really sucked me in with his false identity. I did NOT see the serial killer thing coming and I congratulate the actor and the writing for that.
While I don't worship them all equally, these writers generally have the ability to surprise me and that's what draws me back to the show (in addition to Laurie, of course). After watching the preview of this episode, I was convinced that Cuddy would somehow "speak now or forever hold her peace." When that didn't happen I was watching in disbelief as the "marriage' went through. But my expectation would have made for a somewhat pat and predictable show, so what actually happened was much better because it was surprising.
I agree with a few posters above that we are expected to be feeling lousy right now about the House-Cuddy breakup. David Shore and company are doing JUST what they planned. And as I've said before, I don't think they are anywhere near finished exploring the House-Cuddy relationship. We've never seen a heart-to-heart discussion of why they loved each other (besides House being "amazing"), let alone why, at that particular time, Cuddy broke it off. I think and hope there is much more to explore here.
In a perverse way, we should all be expecting, and maybe even rooting, for House to spiral out of control after the breakup. The harder he falls, the deeper his feelings were for Cuddy. If he had treated this as a bump in the road, and gone back to his lonely life, I would be much more upset.
I also can't get behind any of the various proposed dream explanations, alternate universes, or other hopeful scenarios that explain away the breakup. But I will admit there have been some crazy pieces of coincidence and possible red herrings in the last three episodes.
And WHAT was that unicycle doing in House's bedroom closet in the Wilson comforting Cuddy scene?
47 - AnotherHouseIsPossible
I believe that House did not his best in his relationship with Cuddy. Indeed, I believe he did the best she wanted. I acknowledge that House struggled a lot, but ultimately failed to achieve its objectives.
But I also think that Cuddy gave up too soon.
"Honestly, I think their relationship has not been explored in depth."
Well, actually, that's what I thought before. Maybe I'm wrong. Come to think, before we knew nothing about Cuddy's personal life, nor, her problems with her mother. It is possible that the writers have pretended that we know Cuddy a little better during these episodes (EP9 and ep13). It is possible that a way to deepen the relationship between Cuddy and House, has been to deepen the knowledge of the character of Cuddy. I agree with the person who said that Cuddy also has trouble relating to others. And these problems may come arising from family relationships. Perhaps these problems (accumulated over the years) are responsible that she has given up too early in their relationship with House.
Cuddy said: "I can not fix your problems. I am your problem."
House did not understand why he broke up with Cuddy. Perhaps the problem is House. I'm not going to apologize. But perhaps the problem is Cuddy. Perhaps House now has to try to understand the reasons for Cuddy to break the relationship. House may have to go beyond their own fears. Maybe the fears are not the head of House. Maybe the fears are in the minds of others.
With the latter, I mean not only the relationship of House and Cuddy. House has trouble relating to people who really want. But House always ends up surrendering. Never goes further. I mean, House needs to feel that someone needs him.
House told Wilson: "You can not donate a liver. If you die you leave me alone"
House Cuddy told him about "the need in my life."
But House just feel that it is necessary for their patients. House never think someone might need him as a person (as a friend, boyfriend). Rather, he believes that he can not help others (it is underestimated.) So he was afraid of not being able to be next to Cuddy at its worst.
House must know what he can bring to others. (Much)
House Is raised, which was what brought him to Cuddy? No. It simply asks what was what he needed her. House doubts began in Unwritten ("we have nothing in common," she break me when she realizes that ").
House and personal relationships ...
48 - RedTulip_Ana
I do not understand...Chase said he could only marry one day, or that the marriage was valid only that day?
Yes, And WHAT was that unicycle doing in House's bedroom?
49 - barbara barnett
Elisabeth--about the unicycle. House has all sorts of bizarre artifacts in his apartment, many presumably from days gone by: his childhood and certainly Pre-leg. He has golf clubs in his closet. That unicycle looks antique, and would go along with House's penchant for antiquities.
50 - Dmcky
Thanks Barbara, as always..and great use of the Stevie Nick’s lyrics..
Before I read the other comments I will post my thoughts (as not to be swayed)
Barbara I agree that I didn’t hate this episode either. I admit I went in with low expectations after Out of the Chute which I was quite disappointed with that one.
Fall from Grace gave us more than I expected..
House: Well he is still being an ass, but this ep (thanks to HL’s brilliance) showed more of wht is underneath this asshood. Everytime Cuddy caved he had this particular look on his face..Wht was it? was it to say please argue with me? please give me a reaction? Something, anything? I actually got a sense of hurt form House at times during his interactions with Cuddy..when she tells him it was his problem to make other arrangements for his “mock” wedding..maybe he was waiting for her to try and stop him? Or atleast ask him why he was doing it..i think I saw hurt..he certainly felt like an ass when he saw that he hurt Cuddy at the wedding..House has always been a game-player. He is super emotionally stunted. He has a contradictory personality. He is straight forward and blunt in every other aspect of his life, except with matters of the heart. I’m actually surprised he openly admitted to liking Dominika… he needs to really grow up..enough with the games, literally and figuratively. Monster trucks and remote control helicopters? Seriously?
Cuddy: I loved LE in this ep! She had perfect symmetry of showing guilt for House, and hating herself for caving to him. Brilliant! After the segueway cave, her expression was spot on. I was glad to see her tell him no (thanks Wilson!). House is a master manipulator, and his easiest victims are those closest to him. Cuddy needs to be who she is, and not be “afraid” of him because he knows her weaknesses, and he’ll milk them for all its worth. It’s who he is. It was nice to see her stand up to him, even though she didn’t like telling him no.
Wilson: well for a minute I to thought he would make a move on Cuddy..thank goodness he didn’t..we really don’t want to go there, do we? He’s just what H&C need, someone to speak on behalf of them both when they are both to afraid (childish?) to speak to one another..
So, inspite of the over the top stunts, and random green card marriage, im convinced there is a method to the madness. even if it isn’t, a girl could dream right? Great POTW twist btw!
51 - ruthinor
#43 Jaim: Thanks for the support! Nice to know I'm not the only one out here with those thoughts!!
#41Josie: Yes, I agree with you about Cuddy's relationship with her mom. Hearing her tell her Cuddy that she likes her sister better could not have been easy. But, the last scenes in Bombshells lead me to believe that while Cuddy and her sister are not very close, due to the differences in their lifestyles, there's plenty of love there. Plus she's entrusted her sister with guardianship of Rachel should anything happen to her. They both have been criticized by their mother and share that bond. There was also an incident in an earlier episode, when House defaced a photo of Cuddy, taken on a trip with her dad, that perhaps showed she was particularly close to her father. But we really don't know anything about the dad. In fact, we know really nothing about any of Cuddy's prior relationships (other than Lucas), including her short marriage. The writers just drop these little "facts" and never explain them. Not knowing much about Cuddy makes it difficult to explain her motives, actions and reactions. That in turn, IMO, makes for a poor starting point for the writers trying to communicate about the House-Cuddy relationship. Personally, I don't think they did a very good job of it.
52 - 60 plus
Cath, Sherlockjr and, from Barbara 31..."I said that perhaps the whole point has been to make us feel terrible..."
In Ian Jackman's official guide to the show, he quotes David Shore as saying,
"When you are doing a show like this you have to know what reaction you want from your audience at any given point. The second scene of act six, I want the audience to feel something and you have to know what that is. Even if it's ambiguity, you have to get the audience to feel ambiguity. I want them to be sixty percent sure House is thinking that. You are to some extent trying to be a puppet master."
An added note. This type of quote is one reason I find the book a good complement to your "Chasing Zebras," Barbara. It certainly does not have the richness, paassion and depth of meaning that yours does, and I don't refer to it nearly as often. It does, however, especially through quotes, give a broader insight into the thinking of TPTB as to how they see the characters and why and how they (TPTB) did what they did with them and the show over the years (and still do, in my opinion). For example, here is just one of several places where Shore discusses the House character. Obviously, he sees more than "Just a jerk."
"I personally don't think he has the heart of gold that many people in the audience think. I do think he is a human being. I think that's one of the great things about the way Hugh plays it..it would be very easy to play as simply an automaton and we get that sense with High that there is humanity behind those eyes. I think that's the only reasons the audience forgives him for those things."
53 - SuzyQ
It always seems to be that whenever any fan claims extreme 'sexism' or 'misogyny', griping about the way "women" (really, Cuddy) are treated, it's because they're only seeing the surface - and they're watching as if this were a 'real' story, without all the symbolism, motifs, allegories, etc that a written drama will have. I believe that since they are usually also female, they're putting themselves into Cuddy's place, and getting righteously peeved, because *they* would HATE to be treated "like that". And naturally, viewing things from their own point of view - they are in the right, and the person hurting them (House) is in the wrong. (We all do that, I'm not assigning blame, I'm just saying it's a natural reaction.) When ultimately, there are always two sides to every story, and neither person is 100% blameless. (I especially hate the 'feminism means down with males, and always getting what I want' angle.)
So my point is - stop taking this show, and these characters, SO seriously and literally, that you can't see the forest for the trees. Just because something is shown, doesn't mean it's endorsed. It's like banning Huckleberry Finn because it uses the n-word. There are reasons for it, and they are not today's reasons. Similarly, there are reasons for perceived sexism and misogyny, and they are in the service of the story, not 'real life' reasons. They exist not for their own reasons, but for larger literary reasons. Literature and storytelling are *not* real life, and should not be expected to behave like it.
To speak directly to the episode - I really liked it. I liked OOTC more, perhaps because I could see the meaning and thread more clearly there. But I love Dominika, and I think she could be good for House as he heals.
I think it shows how far House had fallen for Cuddy, that he was so ready to commit to her, that he was still in a commitment frame of mind, he just needed to put someone else into the scene so it didn't collapse on him. (There are plenty of other reasons too, but I think that's one of them.)
54 - barbara barnett
60Plus--absolutely. I've never interviewed Shore, but I have interviewed Katie Jacobs, who told me the exact thing (it's in CZ somewhere in the "Mad Bad and Dangerous to Know" Chapter of the book.
55 - Eloise
Ahh its less heated over here thankfully! I actually enjoyed this episode very much because it was so Housian! The only thing I didnt like was the monster truck and that was only cause I couldnt hear properly over the engine noise! I did enjoy Chase's obvious enjoyment in that scene.
I dont understand all the hate for this episode and I'm happy to wait to see where everything is leading.
I think Dominika was rather sweet and hope she is going to appear a bit more as it seems she might.
House definately seemed to be looking to get revenge on Cuddy but also for her to stop his OTT behaviour. He is very hurt and spiralling down as you would expect from him. Bring on the next episode I cant wait!
56 - josie
#51--ruthinor In a previous episode(s), it was mentioned that Cuddy did not get along with her sister. When you're in a time of crisis, such as having kidney cancer surgery, you need your family to help out whether you're bossom buddies or not. Or, the writers have been so sloppy this season, they forgot that Cuddy and Julia were not close. I don't think the writers want us to analyze Cuddy too much, however. I think their message this season is that House is not ready for a real commitment to another person.
57 - barbara barnett
josie--my sister and have never ever been close. But when 2 crises hit we were completely there for each other. That's pretty common.
58 - ruthinor
SuzyQ, you make some good points. However, as for me, I can't put myself in Cuddy's place, because I don't know where that place is. That's my point. The writers have told us virtually nothing about where she is coming from, based on her OWN life, not on her interaction with House. For example, why does she dress the way she does? w/o knowing why, she's just a sexist's dream come true, and it has really hurt her character. Maybe you can find some deeper meaning in the way the writers handled both the House-Cuddy relationship and the break-up. I can't. I thought it was rushed, ill-thought out and poorly written. In other words, what was the point? What did we find out that was new? What allegory or motif am I missing?
The same can be said for the Cameron-Chase relationship. The break-up was ridiculous. We also knew nothing about Cameron's past life that might help to inform us about why she did what she did.
All I'm asking is that when the writers spend time on developing a relationship between two of the characters, that they tell us about both of them, not just one. The more we know about someone, the more likely we are to see their point of view. For whatever reason, the writers on this show can't seem to do that with their female characters.
59 - RobF
It's not just the female characters, though -- the writers don't tell us much about Wilson either, or any of the team members.
House is the only character that is really fleshed out.
60 - RedTulip_Ana
59 - ruthinor---> What did we find out that was new?
I agree with you, the writers do not delve into the characters. I do not think so only with the female characters.
Anyway, I do not like the breakdown of the relationship between Cameron and Chase. I think it was treated very superficially. Everything happened very fast (as in the case of House and Cuddy).
But the relationship between House and Cuddy is different. House is the star of the TV series. His love relationships are more important than the other characters. So I agree on what we should know more about the life of Cuddy. I think the other writers have shown us something new about it. They have taught us things we did not know. This may not be enough, but it's something. At least, we can guess why Cuddy has struggled to maintain a relationship before. Why marry someone only for six days? (for example)
But now (not surprisingly) the writers have to focus on the "heart " of House and his complicated mind.
Perhaps House will carry us to learn more about Cuddy.
I hope that at the end of this season, all our doubts are resolved.
61 - MHM
The heated reaction to the episode was not surprising.
I don't think it is fair to blame people for taking things so "literally". Why would people watch the show every week for years if they didn't become emotionally invested in the characters?
[As for the episode]
so-so
I was very blah about all the gimmicks in the episode. I especially cannot believe that House can make it up and down that monster truck. At certain points, I had to stop and wonder about the hallucination theory, which I do not believe in.
The Good
I am increasingly interested in 3M. AT does a great job portraying her on the show. I am sad to see her go. I'm greatly interested to see how she will leave the show.
The Very Good
I also liked Chase's one-liner at House's wedding. I think that line, and the look he gave House+the look that House gave Chase, was tinged with the incredible combination of "bluntness laced with ambiguity" that made earlier episodes of House so amazing. I wish we had more of these "bluntness laced with ambiguity" moments on the show now because the writing and plot structure seems to have gotten more and more blatant and heavy handed.
The Bad and the Ugly
I was bothered with the use of Dominika as a plot device. I am frankly more disturbed because I found myself almost liking her at the end of the episode in her last scene with House. I am disturbed that I was interested in her as a character because of the following reasons.
If she is supposed to be a breath of fresh air for the show as well as a new possible love interest for House as he "heals", I have to say I do not agree with the writers' choice. While the writers are entitled to pursue their creative interests, I have a strong visceral reaction against the idea that House can or will develop a meaningful relationship with someone who came into his life the way she did. The construct bothers me. According to House, her cooking, cleaning, sex, and other services under a marriage contract will save him 33,000 a year. His marriage to her was rushed and motivated in part to get back at Cuddy. If he does develop feelings for her and they have a romantic relationship, I have to say that I would question the writers. If they are entitled to their artistic creativity, I am also entitled to feel an innate sense of disgust at the construction of House falling for a maid/masseuse/prostitute in what started as a fake marriage. Art provokes responses, and the construct within this "art" I believe invokes an innate sense of discomfort from people. That reaction does not make them irrational or hysterical. It makes them viewers of the art who feel.
I think that many people have a point that the idea of Dominika is uncomfortably misogynistic. I do not think they are unreasonable for thinking so. If Dominika becomes a factor in House's life, is it because he, a force to be reckoned with, needs a sweet, submissive, and docile woman instead of an equally strong force to be reckoned with?
In addition to these thoughts, the very idea of fake marriage unintentionally falling for each other is IMHO, blatantly cheesy.
I know people may rightly say, "Hey, no one said they would become involved!" But, the last scene between them made me uncomfortably looking at the possible future of those two characters, as I thought they planted seeds for further exploration between their dynamic.
I do not like Dominika as a plot device because I am a viewer of the show who has reactions to what the writers present to us as their work of art. My reaction to it is immediate and innate, but I do not think that it makes me any less of a viewer. I am disturbed that her character is portrayed as slightly likable because that goes against my immediate and innate repulsion at the idea of her as a character and her as a plot device. I do not think we need to suspend our sense of values in viewing the show. The show has always been interesting because it has made us think about our own values. I think the Dominika device is a challenge that perhaps cannot be stomached well because, to me, the initial reaction is too innately negative for me to justify or rationalize her existence on the show.
I'd really rather House met someone at a bar, pursue a casual relationship with her, and etc. than the use of Dominika as a plot device.
Finally,
I do not think certain people are angry just because House and Cuddy are no longer together. I think that a good number of them are angry because the construction of their relationship and their breakup was not dealt with in the depth that they expected it to be dealt with. Their feelings for each other were built up slowly for years, and the complexity with which that was explored was lacking this season, IMHO.
When a good many people have such a visceral reaction to something, I do not think that it is unreasonable to think they have valid points, too. Their passion does not mean that their points are any less valid.
62 - ruthinor
Thank you MHM!! The paragraph below (as well as the rest of your post) says it very well. And it's pretty much the sentiment I've seen expressed here by those unhappy with this season.
"I do not think certain people are angry just because House and Cuddy are no longer together. I think that a good number of them are angry because the construction of their relationship and their breakup was not dealt with in the depth that they expected it to be dealt with. Their feelings for each other were built up slowly for years, and the complexity with which that was explored was lacking this season, IMHO."
63 - ruthinor
RobF, I agree with you about Wilson. We do know about his brother and his many marriages, but not what informs his decisions. OTOH, we know the following:
Taub was a plastic surgeon who did good deeds with doctors w/o borders (or similar org.). We know about his marriage and his brother-in-law. His parents are still alive and living in (forgot!)
Chase was a Catholic seminarian whose doctor father left the family when Chase was very young. Chase's mother was an alcoholic who died as a result of her addiction. Chase's father
died of lung cancer. Chase was not close to his father as a result of the above.
We have met Foreman's whole family. His parents seems to have had a good marriage. The mother had Alzheimers disease, and she is currently deceased. His brother was in jail and Foreman was in some early trouble with the law as well.
Cameron...married a dying man. Anything at all about her family or anything else? Nada.
Until this year we knew virtually nothing about Cuddy's background other than how it tied into her relationship with House. We didn't even meet her family until after the affair began. We have no idea why she got married and why it lasted for only a second.
64 - josie
#64
Ruthinor, do you think Cuddy got married immediately after her one night stand with House back when they attended school in Michigan? Perhaps it was a rebound relationship?
65 - ruthinor
Josie, we were told nothing, so we can speculate away. What seems particularly strange in retrospect is why House never asked her about it. House wants to know everything about everybody! If I remember correctly, she was just a freshman when she and House met at Michigan, so I kind of doubt that the marriage occurred then. Of course, I could be wrong!
66 - RedTulip_Ana
66 - ruthinor
(S07Ep08)Cuddy se casó en el año 1986. En ese año ella debía tener 19 años (este año fue su cumpleaños 43)...Es posible que se casara justo después de aquella primera vez con House.
67 - RedTulip_Ana
66 - ruthinor
(S07Ep08) Cuddy married in 1986. That year she should be 19 years old (his birthday this year was 43) ... It is possible to marry right after that first time with House.
(sorry, I put it in Spanish)
68 - Jacksam4eva
Just like many of you I believe in the theory saying that the point of this whole thing is to make us feel as crappy as house does right now. Not only does David Shore talk about that in the book you mention but the writers have also done this for real in the show. I have nod idea what it means but I've also noticed that lately the lighting in the episodes of this season has been mug darker than it was before (back in season 4 or 5 for example). Lime I said I'd hate to over-interpret this kind of details but still I'd like to know if anyone else noticed and what you think about it. I'm thinking it's part of wanting us to feel house's pain process.
As for those who say that House is not believable anymore (and by that I mean both the people who say that some his actions are too over the top and this who tell us to stop making excuses for a machistic jerk - I know no one said that, I'm exaggerating this I know) I don't really know why to answer. On one hand, I do feel lime the show's been frying worse and worse lately on the topic of women for example and that sometimes you can't justify everyhing by saying youre trying to be not politically correct but on the other hand, I still think that this is TV and even of a character like House would never last more than one second in real life, TV is actually life with exaggeration and therefore the whole situation still works for me.
Overall I actually liked this episode. Not as much as the one before but I loved it nonetheless. I - as opposed to lots of people all over the fandom - found it really Housian and in character. House is guy that goes all in in everything he does: he didn't want an affair with Stacy he wanted a realationship, he goes to all kinds of lengths to treat his patients, now when he's decided to "have fun" aced his breakup, he doesn't just buy a boat or change jobs like most people do, he jumps off a balcony and gets married. I didnt find the whole idea ooc at all.
Anyway, thanks Barbara for keeping the non-ranting thread open. And sorry if there are any typos in this post, I'm writing on my phone lol.
69 - ruthinor
RedTulip_Ana: I can't remember if Cuddy turned 43 or 44 this year. I suppose it's possible that the marriage happened after the brief affair with House, but wouldn't he have noticed that? 19 or 20 is pretty old for a freshman, so I don't know!!
70 - Committed
If TPTB intended for us to really feel House's pain, then I take back all that I have said in previous posts and bow to their brilliance. I can only hope this is true - it makes sense.
I hope that House improves his relationship with Cuddy. I prefer to see them as a couple but will take whatever form is offered other than this one. If House goes back to Cuddy, here's hoping that Dominica ends up with Wilson. Maybe that is House's plan in the end.
Happy hiatus everyone !!!
71 - bigHousefan
Barbara-
Although last week I was not in favor of the rant/rave thread first, then painfully long wait for your review, I now realize and appreciate the value and need for these two devices. I still must admit that leaving for work with the rant/rave printed posts in hand and NOT your review still feels to me like Merrie Melodies versus Looney Tunes ;)
You make so many good points in your review. And I'm continually impressed and intrigued by the insightful comments from your readers. Regardless of my initial reaction to an episode, I always come away fulfilled and satisfied after stopping by here. That is what I love about your site, and also what I love about the show, House. There is always so much more under the surface.
The phrase 'there is method to the madness' keeps popping to mind. I'm hoping for an amazing pay-off. I get that the outrageousness of it all has a point, but, Chase marries House and Dominika??? Seriously?
72 - RedTulip_Ana
70 - Committed
I love this: "If House goes back to Cuddy, here's hoping that Dominica ends up with Wilson. Maybe that is House's plan in the end."
Happy hiatus for you too! I think we all need it!
73 - He Who Laughs Last, Laughs Best
No I think Dominica, ends up with 13.
74 - housemaniac
MHM #61: You make some excellent points. But your musings about House and Dominika are frightening to contemplate. If House and D end up in *any* kind of romantic relationship, that's it for me. I'm hanging in there, still, but that would be so OOC for House, I wouldn't know what show I was watching anymore.
Barbara, I'd like to believe Dominika could serve some sort of need for House. Besides being another person in his apartment, though, I don't see what she could possibly do for him. House has never been into fluzzies (which is how D is potrayed); he merely uses them instrumentally, never emotionally. He's a complex person who chooses complex friends and girlfriends. If that changes, then I will have lost sight of the character I thought I knew. Here's hoping....
75 - SuzyQ
#61 MHM -
"I do not think we need to suspend our sense of values in viewing the show."
Actually, that's exactly what you need to do. [H]ouse is not a morality/values show. It never has been, and it has never pretended to be. I think that the fact that it's on broadcast TV is the only reason it's not even darker than it often is.
There's a *lot* of TV you need to 'suspend your values' for. Breaking Bad. Dexter. Sons of Anarchy. Big Love. Shameless. And I could go on. When writers tell stories, not all of the stories will be stories you like, or stories that adhere to your value system. Nor should they be. If a show offends you, there's a button on your remote for that. But don't make the mistake of thinking that the portrayal of a thing is the thing itself - or that it's being endorsed.