GLEE Redux • Goodbye

McKinley High School completes another school year, only this time, it is a little different. The New Directions are National Champions. Coach Sue is with child, and helped Mr. Schue lead the show choir to the win. Mr. Schue and Miss Pillsbury are not only engaged, but they put some issues aside, and share a deeper intimacy than ever before. Quinn is out of the wheelchair, and planning on taking the Ivy League by storm. Rachel and Finn are still in love, and plan to start this new part of their life together. That includes them moving to New York City, with Kurt. But this does leave Blaine alone in Ohio, taking on his senior year without the reason he transferred to McKinley. Will they all be leaving Puck behind, or can he pass the test? All these questions we hope to be answered in the final episode of season 3, Goodbye.

Top: The New Directions. Clockwise: Beyoncé; Bruce Springsteen; Madonna; Guys And Dolls; Rod Stewart; The Beatles; Room For Two; and New Radicals.

As Mr. Schue is walking down the hallway, he hears the kids singing in the chorus room. Artie, Tina, Kurt, Mercedes and Rachel playfully sing "Sit Down, You're Rocking The Boat," part of the score for Guys And Dolls.



He watches them a bit, but then takes a deep breath, and walks in. He reminds them there is nothing left to prepare for, well save the last assignment. He'd like them to prepare a song to say goodbye. The underclassmen will say goodbye to the seniors, and the seniors will say goodbye to everyone. Mr. Schue dons the guitar to kick it off with a stripped down acoustic version of "Forever Young" by Rod Stewart.



Next we see Kurt walking down the hallway, remarking on how far he has come since he was a timid freshmen at McKinley High. He is reminded how his actions has made it possible for other young gays to wear nice frocks to school. He walks into the auditorium, and finds his father there, on stage. Mr. Hummel is telling Kurt how proud he is of his son, and what they accomplished together. He reminds Kurt when they started getting honest. He found Kurt in a unitard, dancing with Brittany and Tina. They were dancing to Beyoncé's "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)."



Kurt can't help but laugh as his father does the number, still applauding as Mr. Hummel leaves, blowing kisses. Kurt couldn't imagine a better graduation present. Blaine reminds him of the monogrammed towels he bought for Kurt, and then mentions they need to talk. Blaine reminds him Kurt is graduating, but Blaine has another year to go. Can their love survive the distance between Lima, Ohio, and New York City? Kurt thinks they can make it work, for he has no intention of saying goodbye to Blaine, his high school sweetheart. But how will he say goodbye to everyone else? Well, he'll sing a Madonna song, of course. He dedicates "I'll Remember" to everyone, but especially the boys who never cared that he was gay.



In the hallway by Kurt's locker, Rachel comes up to Kurt and Finn to get them to agree they must open the letters from their prospective schools together, and in the chorus room. They agree. In another part of the hallway, Santana fights through a forest of balloons to find Sam and Mercedes, with Sam eager to talk about Mercedes record contract in L.A. Well, an indie label wanting her to sing backup, anyway. But Sam is so proud of his girlfriend. Santana congratulates Mercedes, and learns that Mike is getting a scholarship to dance with the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago. Santana gives him a hug, and Tina mentions Santana's plan to go to the University of Louisville. As she walks away, Santana thinks about what she wants to do, and how she is every bit as talented as Mercedes, Mike, Rachel or Kurt, so why can't she chase her dream, too? Cut to dinner, with Santana and her mother, played by the beautiful Gloria Estefan, and Brittany. She tells her mother that she wants to skip college, and head to New York. While trying to be supportive, her Mama Lopez urges her to go to school. New York will still be there when she has a degree, something Mama never got the chance to accomplish. That is when Brittany explains she is not graduating, having failed everything, and hopes to do better on her second time as a senior. If Brittany stays in Lima, maybe Santana will stay with her... Back in the chorus room the next morning, the seniors get together to sing to the underclassmen. They perform "You Get What You Give" by The New Radicals.



There were plenty of hugs and knowing glances shared, but soon we are with Finn and Rachel, talking about chairs for the reception. Finn is worried that Rachel is settling for him as her husband, but she assures him that is the one thing she is definite about. Cut to Finn walking down the hallway, thinking how his career was a success, having won a State Championship in football, and a National Championship in glee club. There is only one thing that scared him - the future. But not anymore. He's marrying his great girlfriend, and moving to New York with her and his gay step-brother. Every straight boy's dream, right? Finn thinks he nailed his audition with James Lipton. He stops by to see Mr. Schue, who was signing his yearbook. He asks Finn to sit down, and apologizes about having blackmailed him to make him join glee club. Finn mocks him, and leaves. At home, Finn is spending time with his mother and a picture of his Dad. He regrets he wasn't able to get his Dad an honorable discharge, and thinks he should have tried harder. How can he redeem his father's name if he runs to New York to be an actor? His life seems to be coming together, but not this aspect. The next morning in the chorus room, the underclassmen have a chance to say their goodbyes to the seniors. First, they have a special dedication to Finn, who as the starting quarterback on the football team, had the most to lose by joining show chorus, and treat the members with respect. They perform "In My Life," by The Beatles and written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney.



This is lovely, but I keep getting surprised Sam is not a senior. Now we travel down the hallway with Quinn, who remarks how she has gone full circle in her McKinley journey, from popular cheerleader captain, to troubled unwed mother, back to Cheerios captain again. She is so grateful and impressed with her friends, although she still worries about one - Puck. She sees Coach Beiste quizzing him, helping he prepare for the make-up exam he needs to pass. Quinn wants to give back in her last week of high school, and starts with a Metro Pass for her friend Rachel, so they can visit when Quinn is at Yale and Rachel in New York City. She also tries to help Puck study, and when he is about to quit, she tells him she loves him. They've been through too much together, and she won't let him give up. She kisses him, hoping Rachel was right - when she and Puck were together, she brought out the best in him. Cut to Puck walking down the hallway, well, really strutting. He has his swagger back, thanks to Quinn. He is ready to ace that exam. Roz, who is back to coaching the synchronized swim team, comes to see Coach Sue. But she would like to join forces with Sue to take out Principal Figgins. On her way out, she passes Quinn, who is coming to see Coach Sue. Sue tells her she first thought she was just like a younger version of herself, but now sees that isn't true. Quinn is not evil, and Sue admires that about Quinn. She provokes Quinn to tears, and a spontaneous hug. There are tears and honest love there. Cut to the hallway outside of the civics classroom, where all the kids are with Puck, waiting to get the results of the exam. He get's a C-, or, as he says, "a Puckerman A+!" He will graduate with the others. Puck is suddenly in his graduation getup, carrying his electric guitar as he sings "Glory Days" by Bruce Springsteen.



This is sung by Puck and Finn as the seniors we know and love accept their diplomas in their red cap and gowns. After the ceremony, Finn, Kurt and Rachel meet in the chorus room, ready to find out about their future. Finn opens his first, and finds out he did not get into the Actor's Studio. Kurt opens his letter, and tells them he didn't get accepted to NYADA. That leaves Rachel, and she slowly opens up the envelope, and learns she was accepted to NYADA. We cut to Rachel clearing out her locker, getting ready to leave school. All her dreams had come true; she was Prom Queen, National Show Choir Champion, and marrying the quarterback. Yet she can't be happy, worrying about her fiancee, Finn, and her good friend Kurt. She will defer school for a year, and make sure they both will be with her in New York. Santana is clearing out her locker, and her mama comes to get her for her party. She also gives Santana an envelope, her graduation present. Santana is shocked at the amount, but gives it back. She doesn't need the money - she is not going to college. Mama tells her to take the money, and move to New York, she believes in Santana and her dreams. Feel the love! Finn picks up Rachel, just as they planned for a post-graduation wedding. But Finn heads to the train station, and he tells Rachel he loves her so much, he is calling off the wedding. He won't let her put off her future because of him. She can't stay with him, he is joining the army. So he wants her to get on the train and be the star she is meant to be. Rachel is a teary mess, and they kiss goodbye. Finn walks her to the train, and all the kids are there to see her off. She sings "Roots Before Branches" by Room For Two.



The song starts in Ohio, and ends in New York, with Rachel with her mod outfit walking by Broadway theaters. I halfway expected her to be spinning around and tossing her hat in the air, a la Mary Tyler Moore. Rachel is moving to New York, and Mercedes is moving to L.A., and Mike will be in Chicago. I guess Santana is New York-bound. Quinn will be in New Haven, Connecticut, and Finn in the Army. What will Kurt do? And Puck? Guess we won't know until season four starts in the fall.

GLEE Redux • Nationals

Wow, this is the second hour of GLEE-TV we are getting tonight, and once all is said and done, there is only one more hour left for the season, and the senior class will be moving one. Some might come back to visit, and others will have a story Glee will continue to follow. But tonight, the New Directions head to Nationals, and see if they can make their dreams come true, and bring home a championship!

Clockwise: Celine Dion; The Who; Lady GaGa; Nicki Minaj; Queen; GroupLove; and Meat Loaf.

Mercedes comes down with food poisoning, and Sue is trying cold baths and Pedialyte to get her ready for the show. Coach Beiste comes to Mr. Schue, she needs his help. The kids are imploding downstairs, fighting like cats and dogs. He tells them to focus the passion, and it will help the performance. Outside, Rachel runs into Jesse St. James, who tries to shake her confidence. She doesn't let him, and tells him he will lose. Backstage at Nationals, Mr Schue is about to give his speech to the kids, but Finn stops him, and gives his own speech, explaining how Mr. Schue is the teacher of a lifetime, to the cheers of the kids. More cheers when Mercedes comes in the room, thanks to steroids, witch doctors, and Coach Sue. It is their last performance, and Mercedes wants all the girls to join her in a great performance. In the audience, the judges are announced, with a local politician, Lindsay Lohan, and Perez Hilton. Coach Bieste, Coach Sue, and Mr. Schue are freaking out, but soon the curtain opens, and the girls are singing "The Edge of Glory" by Lady GaGa.



They are met with a resounding ovation, and from the wings, Rachel sees that Madame Tibideaux isn't in the seat she reserved for her. Finn grabs her, and explains it is her moment, one she needs to take advantage of having. She walks out on stage, and sings Celine Dione's bombastic "It's All Coming Back to Me Now."



As she sings, she sees Madame Tibideaux taking her seat. After the song, she gets a standing ovation, including from Tibideaux. Quickly, Finn starts the next number, "Paradise by the Dashboard Light" by Meatloaf.



Of course, this song is so over-the-top, the very definition of bombastic,making it a natural for the kids. The audience was on their feet, clapping to the beat by the time they were halfway through. They crowd is in a frenzy, including Tibideaux, who is clapping and whistling. Kurt and Mercedes go to wish Unique to break a heel, but Unique is melting down. The pressure of being the only performer in drag, and everyone is looking at him, has finally gotten to him. They calm him down, offering support. They aren't really enemies, they tell him, that is not the way the New Directions roll. As they leave, he thinks he might need to transfer schools. Unique takes the stage in full drag, and sings "Starships" by Nicki Minaj.



Next up, Unique and Vocal Adrenaline launch into "Pinball Wizard" by The Who, from the seminal Rock Opera, Tommy.



At the end, they get a standing ovation, and the McKinley coaches look worried. The judges are meeting trying to name the top three groups, with Perez constantly blogging about Lohan, and the politician coming out of the closet as a show choir groupie. They are arguing, and no one knows what is going to happen. In the lobby, Jesse St. James stops Madame Tibideaux, to tell her that Rachel is the most talented person she would want to have in her program. She remembers his audition two years ago, and gives him a nice compliment. Back on the stage, it is time for the awards. Unique is named the MVP, an honor Rachel was hoping to get to make her NYADA dream come true. The Portland Scale-blazers are in third place. As tons of confetti falls, the New Directions are named National champions. There is screaming and hugging all around. This leaves Vocal Adrenaline in second place, and a handsome but disappointed Jesse St. James on stage empty handed.

After a commercial break, the kids and Mr. Schue walk into McKinley high, and are met with slushie cups filled with more confetti, and there is joyous celebration everywhere. Then we hear the kids sing "Tongue Tied" by Grouplove.



Thinks are happening, like Rachel being asked for an autograph, and Mr. Schue getting laid. They bring the trophy into the school, and put it in the case. They are smiling. Rachel and Finn are called into Principal Figgins' office, congratulated for winning. He also tells them he wishes kids didn't get married until they were 29. But he really wanted to invite the New Directions to sing at an event tomorrow. Mr. Schue and Miss Pillsbury are basking in the afterglow a day later, only to speak of their love, not lust. They are walking to the ceremony, Sue stops them to tell Mr. Schue she thinks she will be named teacher of the year. Mr. Schue agrees she deserves it, for helping the New Directions win at Nationals. In the auditorium, Principal Figgins brings out Finn and Rachel, who announce Mr. Schue was named Teacher of the Year. They both thank him sincerely, and then the curtain opens and the New Directions sing "We Are the Champions" by Queen.



The kids pull him up on stage, and there are hugs to everyone. Even Coach Sue is smiling, and singing along. Soon, the whole student body in the auditorium is on their feet, celebrating the music geeks and the geeky teacher with a standing ovation. Next week is the final episode of the season, looking at graduation and those final goodbyes...

GLEE Redux • Props

As we approach the end of season three of Glee, it feels much like the end of high school. We are going to be saying goodbye to some friends who have been felt like an important part of the high school experience, but we have no idea when and if we will see them again. There are three episodes remaining, but two of them will be happening tonight!

Left to Right: Celine Dion; Irene Cara; Jason Mraz; Taylor Swift; and Michael Sembella.

Kurt and Mercedes are brought in front of Coach Sue, who blames them for the rise of "Unique" with Vocal Adrenaline, who has been getting all the media attention, since Sue made them tell Unique it was great to perform in high school choir in transsexual attire. She wants Kurt to wear a flapper skirt, and be called Procelina. He refuses, and Sue fears they will lose. Cut to Rachel sitting at a mirror, and starts to sing "I Won't Give Up" by Jason Mraz.



She calls the NYADA judges, asking for another chance. If she will come to the National competition. Back in to chorus room, Sue tells them they will recreate Flashdance, and Tina Cohen Chang walks out, upset she has spent three years in the background, watching Rachel as the star. She storms out, and only to be told to keep in her place, she's just a junior. Her time will come. She's been patient, waited all these years, and is never doing more than costumes and background vocals. She's at the mall, still arguing with Michael via text, and she falls and hits her head. When she wakes up, she is greeted by fellow students, sort of. Puck is, well, Blaine, and Finn is now Kurt. As she walks down the hallway, everyone thinks Tina is Rachel. In fact, Santana and Artie have switched, as have Brittany and Mercedes. And Sue and Mr. Schue have switched, too! Of course, she sings the lead on "Because You Loved Me" by Celine Dion.



She sounds great, and wears a cute pink frock, just like Rachel would. After getting an ovation, she gives a pep talk to Tina (Raachel), who tells her she needs to keep trying with Madame Tibideaux. And that she, Tina (Rachel) knows she must be patient, and helping Rachel (Tina) gives them the best chance to win. Suddenly, Tina is waking up in the mall, and is Tina again. She is greeted by the real Klaine, or is it the real Blurt? Cut to Sue in charge of practice, with the kids in welding helmets, leg warmers, and sparks flying from the metal grinders. There is a battle of wills, as Sue still tries to push Kurt into the whole drag thing. Cut to the girls going to talk to Coach Beiste, for they found out she is back with Cooter, and they want to to get out of the house, and go with them to Chicago. She thanks them, but still refuses. Tina goes Rachel, and offers to take her to see Tibideaux, teaching a class nearby. Back in the chorus room, Sue wants to add more props to the routines, and has ordered 18 little people. She ordered them online. Or wants Kurt to don the drag, but he still refuses. Puck volunteers, willing to do drag for the win, but looks awful. Mr. Schue steps forward, and demands the props stop, and the kids just rehearse the number already. In the hallway, Puck is approached at the locker by Rick "The Stick" Nelson, with his mullet in full display. He rats out Puck on the drag earlier, and wants to fight him after school. In the car on way to see Tibideaux, Tina and Rachel are chatting about pans for the future, with Michael Sembella's Maniac playing in the background.



Puck meets "The Stick" by the dumpster, and the mullet-bound meat-head, and gets his ass kicked. They toss him in the dumpster, and he comes out brandishing a knife. Coach Beiste breaks up the fight, and pulls Puck into the locker room. Puck starts to say how he feels, flunking out of high school again, with a father who ran out on the family, a mother who doesn't care, and what a loser he is. He starts to cry, and Coach gives him a hug, and starts to cry herself. She understands what it is like to be strong, and people think nothing can hurt you. It can. Rachel catches up with Madame Tibideaux, who smacks her down again. Tina jumps to her defense, and softens Madame Tibideaux, but she still sends them away. As they leave, sh is left thinking. Back at Coach Beiste's house, Cooter has a line of crap to say, and she pulls out a knife, the one Puck had in the fight. It's not real, but the one in the kitchen, the one she sleeps with, that is real. She drops the ring on the table, and leaves. He is hurtful, and asks who will love her like he has? She will, she tells him as she walks out. She goes to the theater and sings "Mean" by Taylor Swift with Puck.



They are sharing a moment, that is for sure. Puck was rehearsing for Nationals, but Coach has some news. He will be retaking the test he needs to graduate, and she will help him get ready. He's helped her more than he'll ever know, getting out of the abusive marriage. In the chorus room, Sugar Motta is complaining about Rachel, but Tina steps up, and defends her. She tells them to show some respect for the team, and put in the work. their day will come. On the stage, Rachel is rehearsing, singing "Flashdance... What a Feeling" by Irene Cara.



She calls Tina out from the wings, and the duet on the song. Soon they are running through the hallways together, and get on the bus, bound for Nationals.

GLEE Redux • Prom-asaurus

We start off with Rachel wallowing in what she sees as the death of her dreams. Her failure at the auditions for NYADA has left her adrift, only looking forward to the Prom. In the bathroom, she has a conversation with Becky, who points out Rachel's failures. Brittany is called into Principal Figgins office, who points out she has done nothing since her election. She must take over the plans for the Prom. She fires the Prom committee, and announces her theme - Dinosaurs.

Clockwise: Fergie; Berlin; Ke$ha; Selena Gomez & the Scene; and One Direction.

Coach Sue makes the morning announcements, and we learn that Rick "The Stick" Nelson, Brittany Pierce, and Finn Hudson are nominated for Prom King, and Missy Gunderson, Santana Lopez, and Quinn Fabres are nominated for Prom Queen. In the chorus room, Brittany announces the prehistoric theme. And that hair gel is banned. Blaine laughs, but she tells him it is true, for there was no gel during the times of the dinosaurs, and she thinks he uses too much. In the hallway, Rachel loses her temper when she sees a poster Finn and Quinn for King and Queen, and goes to Finn to explode on him. She does, and he reminds her Quinn is in a wheelchair, and they are running as a pair to help her. And, she can't really dance, so cool down. Meanwhile, Quinn is in therapy, flirting with dreaded Joe, talking about working hard so she can walk into Prom. Becky walks through the hallway, speaking in Helen Mirren's voice, about her disappointment. Sue explains she didn't have the votes, but she will go to Prom with Sue. In the auditorium, Rachel starts singing "Big Girls Don't Cry," by Fergie.



She is joined by Kurt, and soon Blaine. After the trio, they talk about the miserable time they will have at Prom, and they decide to have an anti-Prom party. They announce it, and it seems fine, until Santana smacks her down, and tells her selfish, wanting to steal the joy of prom from everyone. In the hallway, Quinn and Finn are hanging posters, and Quinn is laying down a line of crap about her "withering" legs, going for the pity vote. It seems to be working. But Finn is a bit bothered by it all. Next thing we know, Mike and Tina are walking into Prom, seeing dinosaurs everywhere, including dancing with Brittany while she sings "Dinosaur" by Ke$ha.



Sue is working the refreshments table, and mentions her punch includes Visine, making sure it is not a late night. This causes Finn to go looking for Quinn in the ladies room, when he discovers her standing by the mirror, out of her wheelchair. He is furious. In a hotel room, Rachel, Blaine, Kurt, Puck, and Becky are at the anti-Prom, at a loss at what to do. Well, Becky wants to play strip poker, especially with Puck. At the Prom, Santana is singing the Selena Gomez & The Scene song,"Love You Like a Love Song."



Sam is dancing with Mercedes, but she notices her old boyfriend, Shane. Finn is dancing with Quinn, still in her wheelchair. He is angry with Quinn, and wants her to stand up and dance. She refuses, and soon Artie and Joe come up, and there is shoving. Sue comes over and threatens to toss Finn out of the Prom, but he leaves on his own. It leaves Joe steaming just a little bit. Back at the hotel, and the gays are bored. Kurt will go to Prom if Blaine wants to, but he is fearful of the gel ban. His hair will be a mess. Finn shows up, with a corsage. He tells them Prom sucks without his girlfriend and his friends. Rachel and the boys join him, but Puck stays at the hotel, and Becky still wants to play strip poker. At the Prom, Joe starts singing One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful."



He is quickly joined by the other boys, but Blaine is off to get the gel out of his hair. Back at the hotel, Puck is down to undies and socks, and he finds out how Becky is hurt she wasn't nominated for Prom Queen. He gets dressed, and does a makeshift crown, and crowns her Queen of the anti-Prom. They head out of the hotel, with cardboard crowns still atop their heads. Rachel pulls Quinn aside, to apologize for her jealousy. She explains how she was still jealous of the beautiful, popular cheerleader who had Finn as a boyfriend. Not the new, modest, wheelchair-bound girl that she considers her friend. This takes Quinn aback, just as she and Santana go into a room to count votes. Puck and Becky enter the Prom, their crowns sitting high on their heads. Becky distracts Sue as Puck spikes the punch, and gets Becky a glass. In the election room, we hear Brittany only had four votes, and Finn was the Prom King. And Quinn has one more vote than Santana, but it doesn't make her feel better. She has a plan, and enlists Santana's help. Blaine comes out without gel, a bushy-haired boy indeed. Brittany suggests he can use gel, but Kurt loves him au naturel. Principal Figgins in there to announce the winners, and Finn is Prom King. When he announces the Queen, there is momentary shock, for he says with a write-in vote, Rachel is the Prom Queen. Santana and Quinn smile, and we know they made up the results. The first dance begins, and Quinn sings "Take My Breath Away" by 1980s supergroup, Berlin.



Tina cries in Mike's arms, sad the year is coming to an end. While singing, Quinn stands up, held by Santana. Kurt and big-haired Blaine slow dance together, and get their Prom picture. Finn is holding Rachel close, and she believes that if she can be voted Prom Queen, anything could be possible. The camera pulls out, and we see the crowded gym floor as it fades to black.

GLEE Redux • Big Brother

This is my recap of the most recent episode of GLEE, with music and videos of the original artists, not the Gleeks. Tonight's episode, Big Brother, featured the astonishingly handsome Matt Bomer as Blaine's older brother. That alone is worth a watch. And Big Brother was directed by Eric Stoltz, who I remember quite fondly as an actor in such great movies as Fast Times At Ridgemont High, Back To The Future, Some Kind Of Wonderful, and Mask.

Clockwise from top: Elton John; Duran Duran; Givers; Christina Aguilera; and Gotye.

The show opens with Rachel and Finn talking about the wedding that was postponed in the wake of Quinn's accident. That is when Quinn pulls up in her wheelchair, talking about how happy she is. She is joined by Artie, and they start with Elton John's I'm Still Standing.



She talks to the class, mentioning she is recovering and will be dancing by Nationals. In Principal Figgins' office, Sue discovers that she will be joined by Roz as co-coaches of the Cheerios. To cut that off, she promises to bring the Glee National title to McKinley. She takes over the Booty camps, and is tossing Androids, and being generally abusive, as Sue is wont to do. Mr. Schue tries to intercede, mentioning that it seems pregnancy has not made for a kinder and gentler Coach Sue. But soon, he and Ms. Pillsbury will be joining her for an ob-gyn appointment. Blaine and Kurt are walking down the hallway, talking about Blaine's brother. The exceedingly handsome brother shows up, and we learn he is the spokesman for FreeCreditReport.Com. Puck catches up with Finn, and wants to talk about a business opportunity. There are many more pools in southern California, so Puck wants to move the pool-cleaning business there. And he wants Finn to co-own with him. Fin is not on board, as he is moving the New York with Rachel. Sue pulls him aside, and will be teaching an acting class. He mentions he and Blaine were famous for their Simon LeBon impressions. So they sing a mash-up of Duran Duran's Hungry Like the Wolf...



And Duran Duran's Rio.



Afterwards, when discover Cooper Anderson, Blaine's brother, is quite vain, and really suffocating to Blaine. Later, at dinner, Cooper is telling Blaine how he can get better, and when Blaine brings up past issues, Cooper claims no memory. But wants to make sure Blaine is for his class. Quinn is encouraged to try a steep handicap ramp by Artie. He asks her to join him for Senior Ditch Day. In the Acting Masterclass, Cooper is giving advice about the #1 acting secret - pointing. And ignoring the other actors totally. When he is questioned by Blaine, Cooper shuts him down with more silly advice. Puck and Finn are working on a pool, and a good-looking cougar comes out to hit on Finn, and then Puck mentions how hot the ladies are in California. Sue goes with Schue and Ms. Pillsbury to her doctor, and finds out she is having a girl. Only, there are irregularities with the amniocentesis. Back at the school, Cooper is sucking up all the attention he can, calls Blaine "squirt" and bags on his wardrobe. Blaine goes off, and sings Christina Aguilera's Fighter.



Finn almost walks into another student while texting, and wheelchair-bound Quinn calls him on it. She also announces that she and Artie will be having their Own Senior Ditch Day, Artie-style. Sue is back at her desk, and Becky comes in to congratulate her for having a baby girl. And advises her to work on her patience... Artie and Quinn go to a skaterz park, and are rolling away with other challenged athletes, singing the Givers' Up Up Up.



We also see clips of the other kids at the amusement park, on roller coasters and all. Quinn is so glad Artie planned this day, but really doesn't relate to the kids there, for her condition is only temporary. Artie tries to tell her he was there once, but the sooner she accepts reality the better. Quinn is angry, and storms off. Back in school, Quinn is approached by dreadlocked Christian boy, Joe Hart. He is kind, and she invites him to join her and the New Directions. Sue gives a sweet speech, and it seems pregnancy is doing something. Kurt convinces Blaine to join Cooper in the auditorium, to try to iron out their relationship the way Blaine does best - by singing cover songs. He and Cooper sing a break-up anthem, Gotye's Somebody That I Used to Know, featuring Kimbro.



It is angry and slightly yucky to have brothers sing that relationship song. They share a tender moment after the shout at one another. They are closer at the end, and will hug and make it better. They run off, and make an audition tape for Michael Bay, who has cancelled Cooper's audition. At Finn's locker, Rachel and Finn discuss the future. Finn mentions moving to California, which throws Rachel. She needs to be in New York City, and needs Finn with her. He is feeling a bit left out of the discussion, more like a subplot to a show. Rachel is left speechless. Next week, it is time for a disco celebration on Saturday Night Glee-ver!

GLEE Redux • Heart

Top row: Nat King Cole, Mario, and Gym Class Heroes. Middle: Michael Bublé, Nat King Cole & Ella and The Association. Bottom: Madonna and the B52s.

Couples are everywhere on the first scene of the Valentine's Day show. Mr. Schue announced the need for funds for the Glee club for costumes and hairspray for Regionals coming up. Sugar Motta steps up to pay the bill, and invite everyone to her Valentine's Day party, as long as they are couples. Cause, you know, singles can be so very depressing... We cut to the auditorium, where two men are singing to the incoming Rachel and Finn. It is Rachel's Dads, who would like to plan a party in honor of their engagement and upcoming wedding. They want to have a party, and invite the Finn-Hudsons to their home. Next stop, we visit the God Squad, which is Mercedes, Sam, Quinn, and a new guy, Joe. With his sandals, Biblical tattoos, dreads, and desire to spread the word of the Gospels, he finds a group that seems like a natural fit. Although he only knows Christian music, he wants to help out with the effort to deliver singing telegrams for Valentine's to raise money for the group. And as we see Artie and Rory fighting for the affections of the wealthy Miss Motta, We hear Mike and Tina singing L-O-V-E, made popular in 1965 by the great Nat King Cole.



Brittany and Santana seem so very happy for Valentine's day, and as they are about to kiss, they are interrupted by Principal Figgins, who has received a complaint about public displays of affection by Team Lesbian. Back in the chorus room, Rachel and Finn announce their plans for nuptials, only to have Kurt voice his unhappiness about that decision. He loves them both, but thinks they are making a bad choice. They are hurt, but move forward, and the rest voice their support of the couple. That is brief, for Artie rushes them off the stage to sing Mario's Let Me Love You.



Santana pledges her support to Rachel, when they are interrupted by the God Squad, who had a singing telegram for Rachel. New guy Joe sings Stereo Hearts by Gym Class Heroes featuring Adam Levine, with Sam supplying the Rap.



Santana sees an opportunity, and hires the God Squad to sing a Valentine for her girlfriend, Brittany. This confuses the newest member of the God Squad. Back in the chorus room, Rory has an announcement. His application for an extended visa was turned down, and will be going back to Ireland at the end of the school year. To celebrate the relationships he has established at McKinley High, he sings Michael Bublé's Home, a hit in 2005.



Sugar is so moved, she asks Rory to her party, and Artie is crushed. The God Squad is meeting to decide what do to about Santana's request, and there is open discussion about what the Bible says about homosexuality, as well as shellfish and crop rotation. They want to make sure Joe is comfortable, as well as the members of the church choir who seem to follow them. After the meeting, Sam goes to Mercedes locker to give her a box of chocolates, only to be rebuffed. She has told Shane about them, and he was hurt. She needs to take time to think about what she has done, and Sam walks off, also hurt. Mercedes sings I Will Always Love You, the Dolly Parton song sung by the late, great Whitney Houston.



After the song, Sam gets up and leaves the room, obviously hurt. Cut to the home of the Rachel's Dads, and we see Rachel singing with her proud and loving fathers, tackling Cole Porter's You're the Top, sung by countless people, including Nat King Cole & Ella Fitzgerald.



After dinner, the plans are announced - there is to be teenaged lovemaking. It has been arranged by the parents to give them the night together. They quickly start to fight. The plan worked for the parents. Kurt has been getting gifts and notes from a secret admirer, who he thinks is Blaine. He goes to meet him, and discovers it is Dave Karofsky. He opens up about his feelings to Kurt, who is taken aback, and tells Dave he doesn't return the feelings. In fact,he thinks Dave doesn't really love him, either. Dave is hurt, and gets up to leave. A new classmate of Dave's sees him leaving, and catches on, despite Kurt's trying to brush the meeting off. Back with Finn and Rachel, they getting along, but want to go to Breadstix, and see their friends. They tell Rachel's Dads, who realize their reverse psychology is not working, for the kids want to get married right after Nationals, in May.

Cut to Sugar's party at the Sugar Shack, where Sugar is giving lots of presents to people, and announces the God Squad, who come out to sing for Brittany, since, after all, love is love. The sing a mash-up of Cherish by The Association...



And Cherish by Madonna!



Wait, did we learn that perhaps Rory wasn't telling the truth about not getting a visa? As a surprise, Sugar brings out Blaine, and he sings Love Shack by the B52s, and is quickly joined by the other kids.



The kids all dance around ice sculptures and heart balloons. Surprisingly, there are no unicorns. But there is a dedication to the Late Whitney Houston.

GLEE Redux • The Spanish Teacher

Clockwise: Elvis Presley; Madonna; LMFAO; Gloria Estefan; Gipsy Kings; and Enrique Iglesias.

Mr. Schue, the Spanish teacher at McKinkley High is taking a night class, to improve his Spanish. It seems Mr. Martinez, played by Ricky Martin, is teaching the class. The former top tooth-model wanted something more in life, and it involves teaching kids with the use of music. He wants to start with the the Continuing Education Glee Club. This gives Mr. Schue the idea that if he can teach kids the Spanish in a week, he will be a shoe-in for teacher of the year... When Will gets to school in the morning, he finds Sue talking the kids into becoming sperm donors at the local sperm bank, which she plans to use. Mr. schue tries to stop her, only to be distracted when Sue mentions there is a tenured slot opening at the school, and she wants it. So does Mr. Schue. Sue is called away, and meets Roz, the synchronized swim coach, who will be helping her with the Cheerios. She is not happy. Then Mr. Schue makes it to the chorus room, and talks to the kids about this weeks assignment, Latin music. He introduces Mr. Martinez, and all the students are giggling fools for him, blinded by his smile. He explains to them Duende, which, when talking about music or the arts, is that magical something that makes people feel something, to communicate it to the listeners. To show them, he sings Sexy and I Know It, LMFO's hit in 2011.



Sam and Mercedes go to talk to Ms. Pillsbury about the confusion their renewed relationship has cause. Mercedes wants to know how to resolve her relationships, for she is confused. Ms. Pillsbury advises the kids to not speak for a week, to regain their thoughts on the subject. Sue walks into the gym to see Roz doing all kinds of dance moves with the Cheerios, and Sue isn't impressed. They argue, and rox points out Sue is too old to have a child, more like a grandchild. Flash to the slumber party with Mercedes, Kurt and Rachel, and they discover she is engaged to Finn. They discuss their future, nor can they really choose who to love. Love, it seems, finds them. And cut to Mercedes singing Don't Wanna Lose You, written & performed by Gloria Estefan in 1989, part in English, and part in Spanish.



She ends up singing it to Sam, and having a moment with him. After a commercial break, we are back in the chorus room, and Sam takes his turn to sing a very sexy version of Bamboleo, made famous by the Gipsy Kings in 1988.



While he had the attention of the crowd, he added in an uptempo cover of Enrique Iglesias in 2001, Hero.



The kids are excited, having learned some cool facts, and Santana announces that Mr. Martinez is the coolest Spanish teacher ever. Mr. Schue is hurt, and then she asks when he will be performing his Latin number. We then cut to Finn working out, and Kurt walks in, and soon they are arguing about his proposal to Rachel. Kurt is angry, and feels it is Finn's way of giving up on himself. He wants Finn to know he is special too, in his own way, just like Rachel, and just like Kurt. Finn didn't think so, but he has an odd look on his face. I believe he is thinking, which just doesn't look natural on him. Kurt just might have helped Finn out... Sue catches up with Santana in the hallway, thinking it was Santana who complained about her teaching methods. Santana says it wasn't her, and somehow gets caught up in an argument with Sue and Mr. Schue, when Sue tells him she has found another donor. Mr. Schue is oddly affected, and takes it out on Ms. Pillsbury. The next day, we are in the auditorium and have Mr. Martinez and Santana singing La Isla Bonita, Madonna's big hit from 1987.



Wow, that was fantastic! The kids all applaud, and I am doing the same at home. Mr. Schue, sitting there in a rented matador outfit, is quite intimidated by Mr. Martinez, show excuses himself to go grade exams for the night students. After a break, it will be time for Mr. Schue to perform. He sings Elvis Presley in 1968 from the movie Love A Little, Live A Little, A Little Less Conversation.



He has done his own translation, and Mike and Brittany dance as he sings. Santana is hurt by stereotypical performance she just witnessed. She asks why he is the Spanish teacher, and he admits it was because it was the only job open. She tells him he taught her that you need passion to do a good job, and he has it, teaching Glee. Not Spanish. It gives him pause. He walks into the teacher's lounge, and Coach Beiste is talking to Miss Pillsbury, and she tells Mr. Schue what a great thing Pillsbury was doing with her pamphlets, and how much they are helping everyone. The same pamphlets Mr. Schue was mocking the night before. He sees Pillsbury's passion, and again he is given a moment to think. At the night school, Mr. Martinez is giving away awards for the end of the year, and Mr. Schue was most improved. After class, Mr. Schue tells Martinez he has has a new job, teaching Spanish during the day. Mr Schue will move to the history department. Martinez is so moved, for he talks about how his parents where illegal immigrants, and had to lie to get an education. Now, he is teaching high school. And as a staff member, will be able to join in whenever the producers feel like in the future. Cut to Sue talking to Becky, telling her she knows she made the official complaint about her teaching. Sue is touched, and tells Becky she will get better. Finally, with the week over, we see Sam walking toward Mercedes, and as they made it to one another, her boyfriend, Shane, touch her arm and talk about going to lunch together. Mercedes turns and walks away with him as Sam stands hurt and dejected. Heavy sigh...

Glee Redux • Asian F

As I continue with my ongoing scheduling problems, I thought I would continue to recap GLEE, only a tad later than most others. GLEE is now on a "baseball hiatus," as Fox carries the Major League Baseball playoffs, returning in three weeks, on November 1st. So here is my recap of the episode that aired on October 4th.

The episode opens with Mercedes showing up to Booty Camp late, blaming her alarm clock. We also see Santana is back on board, but hiding it from Sue.Mercedes starts to work, only to have to stop when she is feeling sick. Mr. Schue is not impressed, and tells all the kids he doesn't want their best, he needs better!



Soon we see Mr. Schue with Miss Pillsbury at home before school, when Mr. Schue discovers her collection of Bridal magazines. He wants to bring more than just his porn collection to light, he also wants to meet her parents, which immediately causes Miss Pillsbury to panic, before figuring out there is no option. She retreats and regroups!

Mike Chang is at Principal Figgins' office with his father, who is concerned Mike is on drugs - his grade of A- in Chemistry is an "Asian F," he tells the principal. Mike Chang Sr. fears his son's failure is due to the Glee club, and his girlfriend, Tina. The father wants to put an end to both activities. Mike promises to work with a tutor, do whatever it takes if his father just gives him one more chance to prove himself.

Coach Beiste calls a meeting of the football team to tell them they are all to audition for the school musical, West Side Story. They must have a dance ready to go. They all look to Mike, who is feeling a bit pressured at the moment.



Rachel and Mercedes meet up in the lunch room, and her boyfriend Shane, a football player, notices her hugging her rival for the role of Maria. He is not impressed. He wants her to know that she is better than Rachel. She is moved and sings Spotlight by Jennifer Hudson.



And as would happen, this is the song she sings for the auditions. The trio of directors, Miss Pillsbury, Coach Beiste and Artie, are all impressed by the performance. So is Rachel, who is in the wings and looks worried. Next we see her talking to Kurt, who is leading the class president polls by 11 points. But Santana has a plan for Brittany's campaign, Girl Power. No, not the Spice Girl kind, more of the Beyoncé sort. Brittany sings Run The World (Girls).



Soon the whole school is at her Pep Rally, and dancing to her tune. Kurt sees his dreams of extracurricular additions to his application to NYADA might be in jeopardy. Meanwhile, Mr. Schue comes across Miss Pillsbury and Coach Beiste as they sort through the quandary of who to cast as Maria, Rachel or Mercedes. They are torn. In fact, they want Rachel and Mercedes to audition once again. They want them to sing a song from the movie Fame. Afterwards, Rachel attempts to offer Mercedes a hug, only to be rebuffed.

Mike is getting ready to meet the tutor, when he comes across the dance room. He goes in to dance off some of his frustrations. Instead, he has an inner-dialogue with his father and with Tina. He comes to the realization that he wants to audition for the role of Riff. He sings and dances his way through Cool from West Side Story.



While Coach Beiste loads up on carbs, she discovers no girls have auditioned for Shelby Corcoran's Glee-club, and Mr. Schue is himself to understand what is up with Miss Pillsbury not introducing him to her parents. But soon he is back at the booty camp with Mike, telling the kids how impressed he has been. Soon they get to the latest assignment. Everyone clears the test, except Mercedes. When called on it, she fights back, and starts to walk out. The lights change, and she sings It's All Over from Dreamgirls, with the kids.



Mike is in the dance room, and his mother shows up and calls him on the lies he has been telling. He admits to auditioning for the show, and wanting to be an artist. She stands by him, and gives him a big hug. It seems she too loved to dance, and they dance together. Now, it is time for the Maria-off, and Mercedes sings first, followed by Rachel. They sing Out Here On My Own sung by Irene Cara in the movie Fame.



Rachel comes off the stage and is upset. Finn tells her she was great. Rachel thinks Mercedes was better. Soon she is rushing to see Coach Beiste. Miss Pillsbury comes home to discover a table set for four, and wonders what Mr. Schue might be up to. When she finds it is her parents, she flees. It seems they are Ginger Supremists - preferring the company of other redheads. They fear the gingers will cease to exist soon. Mr. Schue calls them on their odd leanings. Cut to Kurt talking to Rachel, both feeling their dreams are slipping away. Rachel is running for class president because she thinks Mercedes will be cast as Maria, and she needs something for her application. Kurt points out he is running not just for a credit, but he just might be able to make the school a little bit better for gay kids like himself. Rachel doesn't relent.



It is time to get the casting news, and the indecisive trio make a decision. They will double-cast the role, and run for 2 weeks instead of one. Mercedes will have none of it, and bows out, leaving Rachel as Maria. Rachel sees Finn, who hopes the casting means she will drop out of the race with his step-brother. She won't. He walks away, unsure who will get his vote.

Miss Pillsbury is still ridden with anxiety of her parent's visit, and Mr. Schue tries to figure out how to help her overcome her demons. They get on their knees to prays by the bed, and will sings Fix You by Coldplay.



The notice goes up with the audition results, and Mike is cast as Riff, and celebrates with Tina. Blaine is Tony, and gets a hug from Kurt. Rachel is Maria, and is alone with her news, and a distraught Mercedes goes to see Miss Cocoran to enlist in her new show choir.

See you in November!