You guys, what the hell is up with KFC? There was crazy product placement in this week’s episode of Running Wilde, and now we have an extra-crispy space simulator that’s the main focus in this week’s episode of Community. Seriously — is this their only ad strategy? Awkward product placement? Are they doing this because no one is buying their whole, “no we’re totally healthy: it’s Kentucky Grilled Chicken, you guys,” line of BS? So many questions!
Here’s my thing about product placement: I don’t really mind it when they totally admit they’re doing it. I used to review 90210, and the lingering soda and cell phone close-ups drove me up the damn wall. But when they poke fun at it, I definitely don’t mind, so I give shows like Community and 30 Rock a pass (and also Friday Night Lights, because I’m pretty sure Under Armour is the only reason that show is still on the air).
What did bother me about this episode was the flimsy plot device that actually got the crew into the space simulator. We all know Annie’s not leaving Greendale, and this seemed a lot flimsier than the last time it was threatened in the season finale. However, I can’t stay mad at Community, especially because the whole point was just to get us to another hilarious movie homage.
I loved Abed taking control of the situation and setting up his own Houston in the study room for many reasons: Senor Chang’s contribution to saving them and the Dean’s “those aren’t thumbs” map of local truck stops and rest areas being chief among them. Although, it goes without mentioning how perfectly in character it is for Abed to own a space suit. I’m just surprised he doesn’t have a matching one for Troy.
The Greendale flag is another thing we have to look forward to this season. If this were most shows, I’d assume that the ass flag would be a one-off joke, but I think last season’s Greendale Human Beings showed us otherwise. In fact, I’m a little surprised that they weren’t at the media event at the end of the episode. Can’t you just picture them running around, bumping into each other as the space Winnebago burned down?
Clacked by Kona Gallagher 
on Oct 14, 2010 @ 21:58 EST5EDT
