What I’m Watching: Parenthood

Parenthood: Season 5, Episode 17 “Limbo” (B+)

For a family with such colorful personalities, it’s not often that we get to see the Braverman family really explode. That’s the beauty of this show, and what makes all the talking over someone else that occurs before and during the Braverman baptism dinner so fantastic. Some of it is outright entertaining, like Adam being offended that he was a replacement choice to be godfather and Kristina pointing out to Sarah that her kids are very obviously stoned. Even Kristina being pissed at Sarah about how she spoke to Max and Sarah being just as defiantly angry back wasn’t all that serious, which is good. It was such a relief to see Drew and Amber get in a cab to go to the dinner, and that their antics can remain entertaining without having adverse consequences. Natalie sleeping with Drew’s roommate wasn’t a terribly noble or sensitive move, but she did bring up a decent point about how he shut her out for a few weeks when Amy was around. Renee pushing for a baptism could have made things very uncomfortable, but instead it just presented a positive opportunity for both grandmothers to host something and for Zeek to have a rather hilarious conversation with the pastor. Crosby asking Joel not to be the godfather was awkward, and Julia’s reaction was almost as devastating as Sydney’s. Fortunately, Zeek stepped up to a role that he is actually made for, and Joel showing up to the baptism was a big step in what will still be a difficult journey.