REVIEW: Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life – (Summer: Episode 3).
A ten minute preview of Stars Hallows upcoming musical may seem overly ridiculous, in Lorelai’s own terms “What the fu–“. However Taylor’s wacky envision for this musical and Babette and Gypsy’s excitement about the play makes the moment worth watching. It’s fun, it’s ridiculous and it’s hilarious.
However beneath the whimsical surface of this play being set up, is many darker and upsetting sub-plots which really ground our beloved characters.
“I’m not back” repeats Rory as she’s in denial that her life is on pause. She’s tried so hard to become successful and escape the clutches of Stars Hallow, where time is essentially frozen, but even then she’s still back.
In Spring, I noted my disappointment with Rory and how out-of-character she seemed. It seems Rory has matured between Spring and Summer as she begins to get a grip on life. Rory seems to be calculative by taking over as editor for the Stars Hallow Gazette, figuring a way to deliver the papers around town and discovering how to redeem her career.
The delivery montage (accompanied by Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’“) flows perfectly and clearly illustrates Rory coming out of her rut. It also became the perfect the opportunity to weave some town members into the episode without feeling too forced.
Other characters are given just as interesting moments. Michel’s arch throughout the past three episodes hinted him leaving the Dragonfly Inn, and now Michel confirms it. Although the character has always been snarky, he helped form Gilmore Girls into what it was.
Now that his sexuality has been somewhat cleared up and he has a husband, the character is maturing. He’s attempting to cope with children as he accepts he will have to raise some soon. And his desire to have a bigger role is heartbreaking as Lorelai can’t provide it at the Inn.
Jess is also back and seems willing to just be Rory’s friend. While Rory has faced breaking up with Logan, one can only wish she realises Jess is the logical choice. Jess has been supportive and has come a long way from being the grumpy and aggressive teenager he started as.
But Lorelai is now the one having an identity crisis. She can’t seem to accept Stars Hallow’s charm as she critiques the play. She can’t accept Rory writing about her life. And she also couldn’t get Luke to believe in her therapy sessions.
As Autumn approaches, Lorelai plans to “do Wild” – the book, not the film – in order to find some self-discovery. These challenges that Stars Hallow’s characters are facing are more mature and well-handeled than any challenge within season seven, and it’s an exciting set-up to what should be an excellent conclusion.
Overall Grade:
yBaX |> PLAY 
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