I really do find it amazing that The Big Bang Theory can keep me laughing so consistently. Even after 10 seasons, they’re still consistently coming up with stories that are funny and give different characters a chance to shine in different ways. “The Fetal Kick Catalyst” was no exception, and was definitely not short on laughs.
This week on The Big Bang Theory: Sheldon and Amy want to have people over now that they live together, so they invite some less desirable guests over for a “practice run” first. Penny is invited to appear at Van Nuys Comic Con, from her role in the Serial Ape-ist movies, which excites Leonard. Howard feels his baby kick for the first time, which sends him into hyper-dad mode.
I thought all three of these plots were really fun and satisfying in their own way. My favorite was definitely Leonard reacting to Penny’s “fans” at the convention. The show has spent so long making fun of Leonard’s nerdy tendencies, and Penny being way out of his league, that they’ve never focused on how much of a hero he would be/is to the nerd community for marrying up. His friends are used to his relationship with Penny, so I really enjoyed seeing Leonard in that new light. It’s also incredible to watch Penny not be a typical sitcom wife, too. She’s calm, funny, and lets Leonard enjoy himself. Their relationship is smooth as silk.
I also very much enjoyed the brunch party, because I knew before it started that there was no way Sheldon would get through it, and I was right. It was masterfully constructed, really. The geology guy is always a fun little addition, and the downstairs neighbor who is learning everything from TV was a funny character, too. But of course, Big Bang Theory sucks me in the best when they have an emotional payoff. In this case, it was Stuart standing up for himself. I have a hard time watching sad-sack characters on occasion, just because they are so mistreated by their “friends”. But Sheldon, rather than give him a fake apology, appeared to deeply regret his comments and attitude toward Stuart, which makes for an even better payoff.
Here are a few other thoughts from watching this episode:
- The best bit was Stuart and Sheldon getting drunk on mimosas and complimenting each other.
- Raj handling Howard’s predicament like a champion was just the best. It’s so funny to watch Bernadette get weirded out by their relationship.
- I really want the downstairs neighbor to become a recurring character.
- “Willy Wonka would roll you to the juicing room” is the best way to get a pregnant woman to kick you.
Seriously, though, I thoroughly enjoy this show. Sheldon is going through such emotional growth. Leonard is a hero to nerds. Penny and Bernadette are really fun to watch get annoyed. It’s a consistently entertaining, funny show. “The Fetal Kick Catalyst” was a strong episode.
What did you guys think? Did you enjoy the episode? Let us know in the comments!
The Big Bang Theory airs Thursdays at 8/7c on CBS
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