There are some that say it’s easier to review a bad episode of television, rather than a good one. I generally subscribe to that theory, but after this week’s How I Met Your Mother, I’m left sitting here, wondering where things went wrong.
The premise had potential enough. The idea that we end up with people like our parents is the great kernel of truth that can be found at the core of any good joke. Unfortunately that joke went off the rails (if you are wondering, it was somewhere around Chris Elliott and Bill Fagerbakke in bed together). It’s a damn shame, too, because HIMYM has collected a rogue’s gallery of damn talented actors to play the gang’s family members. But when you bring in Wayne Brady for such a small role, I think you’re squandering your resources.
It didn’t help that I couldn’t get behind Barney and Nora’s storyline either. When a night goes bad, sometimes there’s just no turning it around. Between losing a tooth, wearing a rat for a hat and watching a man fall to his death, I think the proverbial fork had long been stuck in their date. Considering how cautious Nora has been with Barney, that she couldn’t see through his transparency was a bit ridiculous.
Not even Weird Al Yankovic’s cameo in the coda could turn things around for this episode.
Notes & Quotes
Clacked by Ivey West 
on Oct 24, 2011 @ 21:44 EST5EDT
Au contraire. I thought it was one of the best episodes yet! I could not stop laughing!
I’m with fat. I had quite a few good laughs during this episode.
+1 this episode was funny. I thought that the Kevin standing with his pants down, later revealed to be because Ted had his robe undone was really clever writing. And Barney saying his mom is the most awesome person he knows, and Nora being like her is a good thing reminded me of his line to Lilly about how if he knew his dad, he would never NOT be on the phone with him. Both touching insights into Barney we rarely see.
I’m with Fat and Non-Fat. I thought it was extremely funny, in a creepy sort of way. I enjoyed it a lot!
I’m with you, weak episode
I’m with you also. I chuckled, a lot, but I didn’t laugh out loud like in the Ewok Line. (“Edward James Olmos” and “Bieber, Lights!” were brilliant.)
the premise was really good.. i was disappointed that it resulted to a less than average episode.. i guess it has to do with the nora/barney date going so awfully bad.. i’m not their supporter, but that bad of a date still somehow being saved? out of sitcom reality.. :( and himym produces weak episodes when they try to get all sitcom.. they’re strong when they portray realistic reactions and emotions.. i think the strongest plot here was the kevin, robin, and ted one. that, for me, was the only saving grace of this ep. :)
*POST AUTHOR*
Hey, don’t get me wrong, guys … I love this show. This was just an effort that didn’t live up to expectations. It happens from time to time.
Now, if they blow the Slutty Pumpkin episode next week, I’ll really be upset.