I watched this late because my stupid DVR didn’t record it, so I read a little bit of the reaction online before I actually saw the episode. Many people seemed to be saying that the writers were trying to make the whole Jeff/Annie thing happen again, which was not something I was looking forward to at all. Now, having watched the episode, I’m relieved because I don’t think that’s what happened at all.
Sure there were all the makings for a romantic rendezvous: an emotionally fragile Jeff, a heated debate, a broom closet. But what resulted was more in-line with the two of them actually being friends instead of star-crossed lovers. I was expecting to be extra grossed-out after Jeff referred to himself as an adult and Annie as a kid, but there was no sultry, “Oh, I’m not a kid, Jeff Winger,” followed by a passionate kiss. Instead it was a friendly hug, and I breathed a sigh of relief.
Abed having a girlfriend wasn’t something I thought this show needed until this episode. I would love to see Eliza Coupe come back as Special Agent Robin Vohlers and start a weird little relationship with Abed. Although I find the idea of Abed in a relationship to be very intriguing, I mainly want it to happen just so I can see Troy’s reaction. You saw his face after he realized that Abed has side adventures; can you imagine what will happen if Abed gets a girlfriend?
After the past few episodes in which Pierce being evil was a central theme, it was nice to back off of that a little bit and get a less-angry episode. Sure, Evil Pierce was still around, but we got him in a small dose, which is always better. His appearance at the broom closet was well-timed and hilarious, instead of just unrelentingly mean.
As much as I enjoyed Jeff’s 1997 Real World audition tape and his weirdly outdated George Michael impression, the top comedy moment for me was the Dean’s costume reveal. It was done in such a way that we got a new surprise every time the camera pulled out. First it was the tiny hat, then the low-cut front, then the shorts, and it was all topped off by the red shiny boots. That cracked me up to no end.
Clacked by Kona Gallagher 
on Feb 25, 2011 @ 10:45 EST5EDT
Did you catch any of the news-posts scrolling at the bottom of the screen? My favorite was “Reports continue of ‘Mysterious Air Vent Monster’.”