As for Chuck, as he hasn't had a male role model in years, he has trouble knowing how to deal with Sarah, whom he genuinely likes. There is plenty about her which is a big secret. Talk about trust issues.
When Chuck must get inside the offices of Ted Roark (Chevy Chase) before a computer virus is unleashed, he uses his best weapon. Himself. The Stanford degree plus many hours as a computer technician are a bonus. Why am I not surprised to see Drew, Chuck's interviewer, is a Stanford grad himself? In fact, he is only a couple of years behind Chuck. The balls they were sitting on for the interview were pure comedy, but there were chairs available. I'm just saying. Ever since day one, Stanford has figured heavily into Chuck's back story. It just might continue to for the rest of the season.
As it turns out, there is a FULCRUM group behind the closed doors of Roark Industries. Vincent, the spy who refused to die from poison, is a part of said team ("Chuck Versus the Predator").
Chuck breaks into Roark Industries only to find someone else breaking in too. Dad. This is not the biggest shock Chuck receives this night. Spoiler alert: Dad is Orion!
Before Chuck can take care of things, Dad volunteers to trade himself to Roark for Chuck's freedom. The offer is accepted, but there is no way Chuck is going to take that lying down. General Beckman agrees to let Chuck take on the mission of getting an important operative back, but perhaps the most surprising was Casey backing up Chuck's argument that without Chuck, their intelligence is worthless.
Baldwin and Levi have grown in the two short seasons this show has been on the air. Levi plays a guy who never wanted to be in the government, but surprises himself by just how strong he can be. One can see Levi's range as Chuck stands by family and friends, who are often innocent bystanders. The blend of caring and determination is charming. With anybody else, the character might be horrendous.
Baldwin is adept as the NSA handler who has a job to do, no matter the price. He plays the meatier role of having to put up with Chuck's antics, however the grouch shines under Baldwin's expertise. Even when grumpy, humor can be found more often than not.
Put these two together, and the chemistry is magic. Who else could pull off a kiss and have their audience laughing ("Chuck Versus the Ex")? I have to say, it takes two guys secure in who they are to make such a scene work. Seeing Baldwin collapse this week as a tranquilizer dart takes effect makes me feel just a little bit sorry for what Casey's having to go through. In their own ways, Chuck and Casey respect each other enough to work together, and will do everything possible to keep the other alive.
Article comments
1 - Scott
Nice review. Shouldn't it be the 27th for the final episode?
2 - NancyGail
Thanks. And yes, 27th should be the finale.