What I’m Watching: Parenthood

Parenthood: Season 1, Episode 8 “Rubber Ball” (B+)

This episode was great because it shined a light on several characters that have previously not been given much screen time or plot devotion. I’m mainly referring to grandfather Zeek, played by Craig T. Nelson, who here gets the chance to be threatening to Amber’s boyfriend and come clean to his son about his financial woes. His onscreen wife, Camille, played by Bonnie Bedelia, also helps her daughter cope with the hatred that Amber is expressing towards her mother. It’s fantastic to see Crosby standing up for himself to Jasmine about not having been able to see his kid for five years because she never told him, and it was similarly satisfying to see Jasmine go to bat for him and own up for her own actions to her family at Jabar’s birthday party. Amber breaking off her relationship with her boyfriend because she realizes that he’s not smart enough for her and that maybe her mom was right was a nice plot development. The revelation that Sydney is actually bored in her classes rather than behind is quite interesting, especially for all of the reactions it elicits, particularly in Julia and Kristina. The running themes of the rubber band ball and Zeek telling Adam that he has “acumen” for real estate were entertaining, and serve well to anchor this episode. Having the family come together at least once each episode is also a nice device, and Jabar’s birthday party proves to be the perfect place for that this week.

On Wednesday, “Parenthood” was renewed for a second season! Start getting used to this family, because they’ll be back in the fall!