What I’m Watching: Parenthood

Parenthood: Season 5, Episode 10 “All That’s Left is the Hugging” (B+)

This was a particularly emotional episode, thanks mostly to one of two deathly serious plotlines. Amber’s reception at work was a difficult one, and hearing Adam and Crosby express concern at Ryan having been violent with her was disconcerting because it’s clear that his actions were truly irreversible. Having Amber talk to her mom and get advice while Ryan spoke to Zeek and then for the two of them to sit down with completely opposing viewpoints was devastating, and the stoic news from Ryan that he already reenlisted just moments after Amber poured her heart out to him is sure to send her to a bad place for a while. Joel, meanwhile, seems to be actually trying in their marriage for the first time in a while, and it’s a shame that Ed had to go and kiss Julia while he’s in the midst of losing his battle for his marriage, since it will likely be Julia who breaks the news to Joel due to a guilty conscience rather than someone else who lets it slip. Drew’s relationship drama pales in comparison, but it was at first entertaining to see him struggle with the idea of a friends with benefits arrangement and then accidentally get the whole thing nixed because he cared too much. Sarah’s age-appropriate relationship has finally started, and let’s hope she isn’t too awkward to give it a shot. Adam’s egg-throwing session was very therapeutic and a wonderful sign of support for his wife, the former candidate.