This is a pretty intense episode, and we see a number of things seamlessly falling into place. Veronica discovers something shocking about Logan; Keith tracks down Debra Collins; and Veronica finds out the truth about Shelley Pomroy’s party. Along with all the pivotal moments this episode has, it has a lot of the trademark intelligence that is always so prevalent during the series run, and it’s easily one of my favourite episodes.
In the penultimate episode of the season ‘A Trip to the Dentist’ after discovering that Logan was the one with GHB the night of Shelley Pomroy’s party, Veronica attempts to find out who was responsible for what happened to her that night. Keith travels to Vegas to follow up on a major clue to the Kane murder.
It’s obvious how much precise planning went in to the two major mysteries of the first season. Everything was timed so perfectly, with Ronnie discovering the truth about the end of sophomore year party just before the big finale. All of the major story threads start to come together so easily.
Among other things, Veronica’s investigation of the sophomore party is a clever way of rounding up a lot of the people we met during the first season of the show, and getting them involved in her vendetta. I’ve constantly made references to this, but I love how much of a community there is in ‘Veronica Mars’. You obviously come into contact with the same people over and over in a high school, no matter how big, so I love that the series constantly kept them popping in and out during her two years there. The way it unfolded was surprisingly clever too. People always see things in a different way, take Madison who’s impression of Veronica was a drunk skank, while Casey saw a fumbling mess.
The best part of this episode is the super intense confrontation with Duncan, after Veronica figures out he was the one she was with that night. One could easily attack the series for copping out of the idea of her actually being a rape victim, but I have to commend them for adding in a surprisingly great twist at the end of the case to give the idea of Veronica and Duncan some strength to it. Obviously this discovery is disintegrated come season 2’s ‘Not Pictured’ but for now, what we learn here is shocking, touching and game changing. Both Bell and Dunn pull out some stellar talent during that heavy scene with Veronica and Duncan’s relationship being forever changed, and I always find myself being swept up in the drama that follows it.
Things are set up perfectly for a big finish to the season, with a lot to explore and a lot still left to learn; series classic.
10/10
I remember this episode being spectacular. I just love how all the guest star characters from the whole season turn up at that party, and how Veronica uses all her friendships and acquaintances to work out the truth. Like you said, the community feel is so strong and believable.
ReplyDeleteThe whole series is spectacular really, season 1 in particular. You should consider investing in the box sets and reviewing it at some point. Its an easy show to write about because there's so much to discuss, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on it, especially since you haven't seen it in so long.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks for reading.
I actually do own all three seasons, but have never gotten around to watching them. It's definitely a show I want to review, but it's just finding the time that's the problem, especially since I have other shows that I'm probably more eager to watch again and review.
ReplyDeleteGreat postings, like always.
Great review, definitely one of my favourite episodes. I love anything withc changing perspectives, and it was great to see everything play out differently from story to story, and to see Ronnie be so active in her investigation, instead of stumbling onto something.
ReplyDeleteNice seeing her vulnerable, too. We've seen it before, as an audience, but she hasn't really been that open with most people until now, except for Keith (talking to Wallace, being with Logan, even accepting the life home from Weevil).
maxpower03: Yeah, as you've said yourself about Buffy, reviewing something is quite an undertaking. I'm actually not re-watching anything at the moment, just reviewing on air stuff right now (all these are written already) 'cause of time constraints.
ReplyDeletetvfan: Thanks! I always love the vulnerability she shows. It actually gets more common as the series goes on too. Her characterization is almost always on point.