Wednesday, January 19, 2011

What I’m Watching: Californication

Californication: Season 4, Episode 2 “Suicide Solution” (B+)

I’m not sure there’s another show currently on television where characters prance around naked as often and freely as they do. Marcy’s morning surprise was quite entertaining, as was Hank’s relaxed, rather analytical reaction to her attempts to arouse him. The sight of Charlie completely naked ready to beat someone with a croquet bat was fun, and again, only on this show would one nude straight man climb into bed with another nude straight man and his ex-wife and not think it was the least bit strange. There was plenty of sexual and relationship-related conversation in this episode, and I liked Hank’s rather delicate way of discussing how he felt about his connection to Sasha. I’m not sure how I feel about Rob Lowe’s character on this show, especially after seeing him do sedated and serious (to an extent) so well on “Parks and Recreation.” He seems like far too much of a loose cannon, and it’s not as if this show needs are more loose cannons. Natasha McElhone was totally on in this episode as Karen, and it was also nice to see Becca again. The end of the episode took a far more hallucinogenic, serious turn as Hank retreated to his art – writing – and penned a letter to Becca while downing considerable amounts of drugs. Obviously, our lead character isn’t going to end up dead three episodes into the season, but his suicide attempt is surely going to change things for both him and his relationships with his friends and family.

Great news for fans of this show - and of Hank's livelihood - the show was renewed for a fifth season on Friday. Terrific!

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