Glee's newest foe is the yearbook. In this case, the Thunderclap, and after fifty years, apparently it is better that the gleekers go without a page. And much to the chagrin of the rest of the team, Rachel (Lea Michele) and Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) make sure history repeats itself. But, ultimately, this episode is reminds its audiences, once again, the importance of independent thinking and ownership of self. Because, let's face it, high school is not forever.
The Star Versus The Starlet
Once again, Glee's registered starlet Rachel informs audiences of her fame seeking through the importance of school pictures. Reaffirming her star narrative, Rachel claims that school pictures are practice as stars (modern celebrities to be exact) are dependent on the paparazzi for their fame. Although on the surface this might seem true, in actuality stars, celebrities, and actors are dependent on the paparazzi for notoriety through the media. Their actual fame and notoriety based on their talent can be derived from awards received, film and television work, and other purposeful media marketing. So although Rachel is on the right track, it is clear from her peers disdain and annoyance at her picture whoring that her star path is blocked by her inability to be relatable, accessible, and, in a sense, clued in.
Whereas in contrast, Quinn's (Dianna Agron) very role on Glee is to be that of the 'clued in,' popular and socially desirable cheerleader. Often used to represent high school enviable status, the cheerleader or the cheerio on this show, reminds other students (including Quinn) that they don't know where they belong. As Quinn says in this episode, her uniform made her feel safe, contained, even when she felt like she was alone, she at least looked like she belonged. Typical teenage feeling, yes, but what Quinn points out is the very use of metaphorical masks within society, and the societal need to feel accepted. Just as Quinn used her uniform to validate her purpose (but she was lost in it), other students and teacher use stereotypes and roles to hide their true flaws and feelings. In particular, Quinn highlights Coach Sue Sylvester's (Jane Lynch) misuse of power and persuasion. Her set of demands at least marks Quinn for the most evolved character on Glee as she clearly communicates where she wants to be and where she belongs.
A Couple of Couples on Glee
As the Quinn and Rachel juxtaposition evolves, Glee continues to destabilize its couples. As unanimously voted in Rachel searches for her team co-captain, she convinces Finn (Cory Montieth) to join her, but she must train him to smile for the upcoming photo. As the random appearing band jams, Rachel serenades Finn with Lily Allen's 'Smile.' Of course, what he doesn't pick up on is the true message of the song. That although he may run around and toy with Rachel's affections she will always smile because she is free and can have her moments of guilt-free vengeance. In fact, the entire number serves this purpose as Finn neither practices smiling or poses, and eventually abandons Rachel for the photo, proving his subconscious alliance with Quinn. But Rachel is prepared, reminding herself to "snap out of this, it's lonely at the top" and to think of that song "when you're smiling, when you're smiling, the whole world smiles with you." Seemingly silly things, Rachel hints at the dark and lonely path of stardom, the falls, the failures, and the true singular-ness of the female star. Reminding us that she might actually know what it takes to make her dreams happen, crying on demand certainly helps her out this time.
This episode will also be remembered as the one, where most audiences either jumped, screamed or sighed...finally. While looking for a pocket square for his photo, Will finds Terri's (Jessalyn Gilsig) fake baby bump, and rightfully accuses her of deception. Not only a heart breaking scene as Will is the clear hero, pulling in other jobs, making time, and committing to Terri's pregnancy, but the scene illuminates the disjunction of their relationship. Not only are their affections mismatched, but Terri clearly does not grasp Will's passion for his students or the greater moral compass in life generally. In fact, Terri serves little purpose as she has allowed her life to be completely determined by her relationship to Will. So much so that she cannot fathom losing him, even if she might be happier.
Glee Helps Mattress Land
Of course, their fallout mars Will's judgement as he unwraps a mattress found in the auditorium to sleep on for the night. The mattress arrived as compensation to his students for Rachel's negotiations for the club to appear in a Mattress Land commercial. All dressed in matching blue pajamas, the club sings 'Jump' by Van Halen to inspire customers. A raucous Busby Berkley knockoff, the cast is full of energy and excited for their first venture that might let them escape Thunderclap yearbook ridicule. However, the number turns out to be a detriment to the team as the payment they receive disqualifies them from competition. But in true Schuester form, Will steps in to take the blame. Not only does this solidify his hero role on Glee, but reaffirm his team's independence. So that despite their initial embarrassment, the New Directions pose for a club picture. And, hopefully, finally get the point of ignoring peer ridicule. Because, audiences and creators alike, surely get that message. On to sectionals!
Nicola Jones - Growing up in New Orleans Nicola never had any inkling at being part of this thing people call the entertainment business. Now, after ...
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