In the meantime, the bidding is still open on an autographed copy of the forthcoming Chasing Zebras: The Unofficial Guide to House, M.D. (plus an hour of chat about the show) at Brenda Novak’s auction to support diabetes research.
"A sinister cabal of superior writers."
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Article comments
— go to most recent comments1 - nc
Great episode; great review, as always. But I fear the consequences of House's exit from Dr. Nolan's office.
What a treat to watch Hugh Laurie and Andre Braugher square off! I loved Mr. Braugher's work on Homicide, and seeing him again on House was timely (in terms of House's situation and audience response). I hope the fact that his character brackets the season doesn't mean we won't see him next season.
But having Alvie back was just as delightful. In a way, I think he did for House what Lucas used to do as sidekick sleuth.
Holding my breath for Monday, especially with last night's episode to set it up.
2 - Zay
My gosh. Epic episode - and blogged to perfection, as usual, by you.
You're already seen the finale?! Lucky, lucky, lucky. My family started laughing at the look on my face after that promo aired. I'm so excited.
This epi was nothing short of fantastic. Like you said, it's what we've been missing all season - it was House, pure and simple, with distractions that only enhance his situation. House hasn't been looking good at all lately and he seemed particularly fragile in this episode. Goodness knows what they're going to do with him in the finale.
Everything's really starting to come together now and it's awesome. The season has been a little uneven, in terms of narrative and quality, but this episode just goes to show that there are still things left to say and that when the House writers are on their game, they still do it better than everyone else. Especially Doris Egan. Her episodes always end up being my favorites.
Until next week, then!
3 - sdemar
AWESOME episode. Hats off to writers, DE & DF. This ranks right up there with "Broken". Unfortunately, the rest of the season has fallen short for me but I won't dwell on the negative when we have been blessed with this superb episode.
TPTB need to beg, steal, cry or anything else they can think of to bring Andre on board to this show. Watching him and Hugh together is as good as it gets. And what a wonderful way to reveal things to not only House but also to us viewers by giving us some very indepth thinking into this man's tortured soul.
The most heartbreaking thing for me in this episode is how House said he blocks out when he gets hit. Look at the damage his father did to him. No wonder he hated him.
Lovely. I can't wait for the finale because I think it is going to rank up there, too.
4 - janine
This episode, like "Three Stories" was a very interesting look into the character of House and will take a few viewings to get it all. I liked that this episode focused almost only on House himself, with the other characters just becoming part of the story, like in "Three Stories". It seems as though all the pieces of the former pre-Mayfeild House are falling back into place. His apartment and motorcycle are back as is the isolating behavior and the feeling that he needs to self punish (hence the booze and the bar fight). The only piece that remains is the vicoden, so the question remains, will he or won't he succumb to his addiction? He has been so sad and lonely with all of his friends finding happiness without him and moving on with their lives despite his efforts to keep them. Even Alive, who basically worshiped House, left to protect himself. On a related note, didn't Lydia go to Arizona too after she left? I wonder if there is any significance in both of those characters going to the same place?
This episode definately set us up for the finale, which, based on the preview, will be epic. I know that the first two minutes of the episode have already been released online, but I want to wait and see the whole thing at once. From what I have heard though, the begining is good. You're so lucky to have already seen the whole finale!
5 - barbara barmett
I'm wondering about the Arizona connection and Lydia myself. Could Alvie have had an ulterior (and altruistic) motive and flying to coop to Arizona (of all places, considering the new immigration law there)! Especially after House's immense gesture for him at the hearing. On the other hand, Alvie is pretty crazy, so...
I felt really bad for House, going back to the apartment with take-out food for him and his new friend Alvie--only to find that he'd also left.
That book. . .I can't wait to see the "book" fanfiction to emerge from that bit of info!
6 - sheryl
@Zay--Yes, this episode puts the entire season into a new perspective. I know many eps have seemed to be "House-light," but now I can imagine Dr. Nolan in the background of those cases, subtlely effecting House's interactions . . .
It felt like such a treat to watch this episode--to see House have to answer basic questions we've all asked too, like "Why is he friends with Wilson?" And to see House, after a year's relationship with Nolan, simply answer those questions . . . Just so much fun.
I'm anxiously awaiting the finale--all the pieces are in place now. Just like Alvie noted about the brain model, I'm waiting to see if there will be a tiny place for "hope" in all this . . .
7 - marjohn626
This brilliantly written and directed POV into just one therapy session makes me wonder what might have occurred throughout the course of the past year's sessions that gave House a reason to keep coming back. Calling Nolan a 'faith healer' is not a new notion to House, but why is he making this harsh judgment only now after having trusted him for about a year?
His frustration, resentment, and mistrust of the therapeutic process at this specific moment must have some meaning. It is often when things come close to the raw nerve at the center of an issue that a perceived lack of improvement in mood and quality of life increases the risk of quitting therapy just as it is most needed.
I have to say that I'm a little disappointed that the season finale seems to pose a disaster-type season ender cliffhanger scenario. I would argue that a resolution to the disaster zone that is raging in House's head would be as dramatic, if not more, than yet another unlikely action thriller. I very much hope that I'm wrong, but following such a perfectly crafted epi like "Baggage', TPTB have their work cut out for them.
As always, a lovely and insightful review, Barbara. Now let's hear some chatter out there, Peanut Gallery... ;)
8 - barbara barmett
I have to say that I'm a little disappointed that the season finale seems to pose a disaster-type season ender cliffhanger scenario. I would argue that a resolution to the disaster zone that is raging in House's head would be as dramatic,
Marjohn--have faith :)
9 - Sarah H
Sheryl -- I'm hoping for a tiny bit of hope as well. It seems like there are such huge red letters and flashing signs over all the promos (especially the global one) for the finale: "House is going to have a breakdown/relapse". The writers have usually managed to surprise me, even after 6 years, like bringing Kutner back to last season's finale -- just to let you know that H had REALLY gone around the bend. I so hope that there is some bit of goodness in the midst of all the desolation for H, whether its from Cuddy, Wilson, Foreman & the team, or just his finally realizing his own strength and worth for a minute.
I could gladly watch Hugh and Andre sit in a room and just look at each other. The treat of a nuanced, intelligent script for them to work with was excellent.
Finally, two other happinesses -- how lovely to see House back at the center of House and Hugh so on his game. I wonder if the distance from the cases that many here have commented upon through this year have been Hugh's interpretation of relating what's been happening in his life to Nolan.
Last finally: I'm thrilled that House and Cuddy's overly long dance towards and away from each other is going to be dealt with one way or the other. With where he is about her in this episode and what the finale implies, it's either the ending or the beginning for them -- and its a chord that's needed to be resolved for some time.
One other finally -- did House's t-shirt say "The Silent Lady"? I couldn't quite make it out, but if it did, kudos to wardrobe for finding a shirt that fit the script and Cuddy's role in House's misery so well.
10 - just4paws17
Classic House! What a great ep! Great review as always too BB!
This indeed is one of the best of the series! Very iPod worthy!
Jen
11 - sheryl
Sarah, what keeps my hope alive is that in spite of those promos screaming "relapse," I know we've been there already . . . so again, if House is going to be on that precipice, what will be different, after a year of therapy and all he's been through--and survived without already falling down the drug well, so to speak?
12 - SueElio
Having not commented in a while, I feel I need to chime in, BEFORE finishing Barbara's review, to say that I am thrilled it's up already. I don't think I could have waited much for a review on this amazing episode....
13 - janine
@SueElio
totally agree. I thought I was going to explode if I didn't get to discuss the episode immediately. That is why I was so happy to see it up at 7:30 this morning when I got to school.
@Sheryl
I wonder if the mention of the small section for hope was significant, left as a clue to the finale, or perhaps a red herring?
@Barbara
I had forgotten about Arizonas new laws, that makes the fact of Alvie going there even more interesting. Perhaps there is more to the story, to be resolved later? Of course, you already know what will happen and again I state that I am jealous. Based on your loaded "Have Faith" I can only imagine what sort of unpredictable or unforseable events will onfold in the finale. As for the book fan fics, I don't think those will matter much. Based on what I've heard (mild spoiler), the book will make a reappearance, in what context though I do not know. All I know is that is was in the two minute intro, which as I said, I haven't watched.
14 - Sandra
You mentioned that you'll interview Doris Egan, so just one quick question for Doris Egan: her take on the way Cameron had to leave. Why did they change the entire canon to fit Huddy in? And why on earth did they need to get rid of Cameron? I still don't get it, and I'd highly appreciate to finally get an answer.
15 - Orange450
Barbara, thanks not only for a wonderful review, as always, but the speed with which you posted it. I can't imagine how you did it! I'm always so impressed with the lens of clarity you shine on even the most opaque occurences. Your ability to connect the most far-scattered dots is much appreciated.
Last night, right after watching, it was hard to find words with which to sufficiently praise the episode. As I mentioned then, I thought that an "awed silence" was the only possible reaction. Just drink it in and be grateful that writers like Doris Egan and David Foster exist. But when I lie down, that feeling goes away :)
Early in the episode House told Sydney "someone will show up to tell you who you are, and what you should be feeling." To which Sydney replied "I miss him." Poor House. Either that was a poignant cry for help from Wilson - or a sarcastic dig at Wilson. Either way - probably both - that's the role Wilson plays for him. "I miss him" - we may not have known who that was for Sydney at the time, but for House we do.
"Poeple get stupid when they're about to lose someone they love" - I also thought about Stacy at that moment, and had a similar reaction - that slowly, Stacy's actions at the time of the infarction may be becoming justified to him (and about time, IMO). But as the idea applies to him now - if he's losing Cuddy and Wilson at the same time, then going off therapy, leaving his one lifeline could be a stupid move. As we may learn, sooner or later.
You point out that Sydney's tatoo was a metaphor for a problems in her past, and in House's. I think there's an additional dimension to consider. Sydney had only removed the surface of her tatoo. What was buried deep inside was still causing problems, and the doctors had to dig deep to get it out. It's a good metaphor for House and his issues. All the surface stuff - move in with Wilson, find something you enjoy, try to be mature about your rival, - not working. Whatever he may think, he still needs to dig up the fundamental, deep-down obstacles in his way to clarity and possible happiness.
"Why are you friends with Wilson?" is a very good question. I didn't like the answer so much: "because I can say anything and he'll never leave". Is this a good reason? I think it's tied into House's view of "unconditional love", and I've never been sure that that's such a good thing. Back in Son of Coma Guy, even House didn't want to "push it till it breaks". Even the closest and most immediate relationships can break, and need care and nurturing to really thrive. I think this is also connected to "what you do" vs. "how you do it". House's "whats" usually lead to desired results. But IMO, his "hows" are not always the best choices.
Everything about the episode had the brilliance of a well-polished diamond. Even the tiniest facets were astounding. House mouthing "self destructive" along with Wilson and Cuddy? A bit of sheer genius.
Andre Braugher is outstanding, and I'd love to see him join the cast on an ongoing basis. I think House still has lots to work on and needs his therapist. As you say - maybe next year.
Did you know that Lin-Manuel Miranda (I adore Alvie) received an honorary Doctorate from Yeshiva University last year? YU is in Washington Heights (where I originally hail from), the setting of L-M M's "In the Heights".
I can't wait for the finale. But at the same time, I'm sad that the season is over. I loved most of it, and it flew by way too fast. At least there'll be an S7. Oh the horrors of a series finale. I don't even want to think about it.
16 - janine
@Orange450
I like you thouughts on the tatoo, only changine the surface. Its very similar to the re analysis of the changing a table with a can of paint comment from "Wilson" that we had last week.(was it you who made that connection the first time?). Everything seems to be pointeing to the fact that House is still the same inside and may revert to his old ways, but House finales always have a way of suprosing us. I can't wait until next monday!!!
17 - Orange450
@janine
Thank you! No, I didn't mention the can of paint. But I agree with your comments on both counts. I can't wait either!
18 - janine
@Barbara
I was just reading some q and a's on the tv addict and they said that at th press screening of the finale, the show was intentionally cut off just before the final scene. Is this true for you too? Do you also not know entirely how things will end?
19 - Amy
Great review! This episode was simply brilliant.
If you see my comment, I do have a question for Doris Egan. Perhaps you could ask her about House feeling the need to be punished so he goes to get beaten up, and the comment about saying something wrong and getting hit. Could you ask her if that goes back to his childhood with his father?
20 - Tami
Great ep -- definitely one to watch a second and maybe a third time soon. I know that some folks have been griping about inconsistencies from the writers this season, but I think 'Baggage' proves that 'House' has become such a well-rounded show over the years. It can indeed "break formula" with excellent results.
21 - Delia_Beatrice
Excellent episode and review.
I found most interesting the way House positions himself in relation to Wilson at this point: even if he does feel betrayed and rejected, House has made his choice, and that is to not push his friendship with Wilson till it breaks. The same can be argued about his determination not to attack Cuddy's relationship with Lucas more aggresively, but there is an essential difference in the way he positions himself to these two core relationships in his life: while with Cuddy, his restraint and stoicism seem to be fueled by fear of rejection, remorse, shame and low self-esteem, with Wilson, there seems to be a bit of all of the above, but they are based on an underlying satisfaction of House's need of unconditional love, that allows him to be more tolerant, more trusting and more adaptative.
During their long, troubled years of friendship, Wilson seems to have lived up to House's deepest need - to the fullest extent possible (a child as traumatised as Greg House will search for unconditional love his entire life, unconditional love that would validate his very right to exist, but however generous and loyal the adults in his life may be, that need will never be fulfilled and the existential drama, the constant lack-of-worth issues will always be present, more or less accutely). When House says that he is friends with Wilson because Wilson will never abandon him, no matter what he says to him, that is as close as we are ever going to get to the admission of the fact that Wilson provided House with unconditional love more than anyone in his life (more than his parents, more than Stacy and more than Cuddy). Enough unconditional love, House seems to believe (=the highest possible amount, in an adult relationship that is essentially contractual), that he can now take a break from the constant testing of loyalty and resilience - he can let Wilson have his thing with Sam, swallow his pain at the rejection, and still consider Wilson his best friend.
It's a big step forward for House, and it must have a lot to do with the lesson House seems to have learnt so well from Amber's death and the potential loss of Wilson. No matter how many ups and downs their friendship has to bear and despite the unfair pain Wilson is now inflicting on House, that relationship seems to represent a solid rock, even in House's most vulnerable and troubled state.
Which is much more than we can say about the second essential relationship in his life... The relationship of House and Cuddy, beautifully built for many seasons, has taken a back seat for most of the current season. Not to House, though - despite his restraint at interracting with Cuddy after he found out about Lucas, she has obviously been a constant presence in his thoughts and emotions. However, during this therapy session, House seemed determined to avoid the Cuddy issue - not only to avoid talking about her with Nolan, but to avoid linking his emotional distress to her taking another step in her relationship with Lucas.
The reason for this inner blind eye, that he turns on the influence of the Cuddy issue on his emotional state, is difficult to explain. We know that he has moved past the phase when he refused to acknowledge his love for her. We know that he moved past the phase when he tried to deny the impact the loss of her has on him. We know that he moved past the phase when he had to avoid her, because the pain he felt from any interraction with her, the anger and the disappointment were too grand. We know that he was stoic enough, strong enough and brave enough to try hard to reconnect with her, to open up to her like never before. We know that he practises what he preaches and that he himself tried to woo Cuddy all over again, reestablish a connection with her on much more chivalrous grounds.
Then why has House set his mind to be oblivious to the connection between the steps forward in Cuddy's relationship with Lucas and House's own major emotional distress? Yes, them moving in together is old news. But since "Wilson", when this first came up, he has hoped that he himself had taken some steps forward at winning Cuddy back from Lucas. And so he should think: in his renewed relationship with her, he made great efforts to be protective, insightful, generous, chivalrous, open, romantic and honest. And yet, nothing changed for the better, but for the worse.
My take is that he blocked this connection out because it is too painful to deal with. House has consumed his ability to be patient, brave, stoic and strong. He has done everything in the power of a human being to change his life. In his relationship with Wilson, he has gained some confidence and some security, which he is holding on to in these times of perceived betrayal. But in his relationship with Cuddy, his efforts were neither acknowledged, nor rewarded. And now, living alone, in increasing pain, both emotional and physical (always connected), he just can't take it anymore.
I think that it makes sense that the season finale has a lot of House-Cuddy in it and less House-Wilson. The relationship with Wilson has managed to reach a sort of functional/disfunctional balance. House is certain (as much as he, the non-believer, can be) of Wilson's friendship. But with Cuddy, the whole situation is an open wound.
His dispair moved me to tears. His loneliness, his pain, his disappointment, his bitter realization of how apparently useless his gigantic efforts have been. The complete despair that such a thought casts on somebody as frail as he is... I hope things will not be as bad as they could. I hope somebody stops his fall. He deserves it more than ever.
22 - Wilson'sFakeGirlfriend
Barbara, loved the format of the episode. Hated the ending with the transition to Huddy. I knew it was coming but was disappointed it happened in a St. Doris episode. Oh well. As always St. Doris does an awesome job of writing. Here's my question to Doris. Korbi in his review of the season six finale, described it as "pretty much the House and Cuddy show". I hear you're writing the Season 7 opening episode. Will your S7 episode be a continuation of the House and Cuddy show? I want to know because I plan to sit out the entire House and Cuddy show however long it may last.
23 - andree
Barbara, as ususal, your insight is amazing and enlightening. I very much enjoy reviewing your assessment of each House episode for all that it brings to the overall comprehension of the House character and the show.
I hope our fave show's writers understand that everyone, including the writers as well as the characters they develop, should evolve and the storyline of an unhappy House is the only true House must evolve as things change. Does that make sense?
If this whole show is about a miserable man borne of a miserable childhood never finding happiness, then I'm going to find something else to view despite its ongoing excellence. I'm intrigued, piqued and hooked that a miserable man can continue to seek a happier life and a less miserable world despite his upbringing and leg issue. Please throw us a bone and let us know House is NOT destined to be miserable. We know he has friends who care about him but even those friends can be cruel. Such as Wilson telling House to be his "selfish self." Ouch.
Very much looking forward to your finale assessment, Barbara. you rock!
24 - barbara barnett
"I was just reading some q and a's on the tv addict and they said that at th press screening of the finale, the show was intentionally cut off just before the final scene. Is this true for you too? Do you also not know entirely how things will end?"
Yes. I don't believe ANYONE has seen the last two minutes or so of the episode. So no one actually knows how it end. Which is a good thing.
I've read a lot of speculation about the finale, some of it completely wrong (but then again, it's speculation), and some of it close to the truth.
Thank you all for your kind comments. I'm following the discussion, but don't have a lot of time to pop in and write responses. Got a lotta writing to do the next couple of weeks to wrap up the season, so stay tuned.
25 - sophie
For Doris: Is House Wilson's consolation prize?