TV: Glee Season 1

picture courtesy of last.fm

Writing about Glee would take an exclusive blog. There's just too many things to say about that show - and I mean good things to say. I have thought about it and it's really been a struggle to start something and eventually have to end it for the purpose of posting something here. So the best way is to restrain myself and hopefully it will come out well.

Season 1 has been a very successful start, especially with all the awards that the show has earned. Though the plot is very simple it is truly significant and most viewers can relate to. A bunch of misfits and unpopular students gathering to make a difference and be the best of themselves. Though there are some who are popular like the football players and cheerleaders but as the story progressed they are as equal to the others inside the club. Not only focusing on the students but also the educators as well and the relationships they have while on school grounds. The characters are very so true-to-life personalities, which makes it very relatable and all the more interesting.  The thing that really fascinates me is how well blended the comedy, drama, real issues of society, not to mention the singing and choreography of the New Directions, the Glee Club name, and everyone involved, directly or indirectly.

Rachel Berry (Leah Michele) is the one of the main characters. At first I really didn't like her (or at least the character) because she was this self-centered, egotistic, and attention getter personality. But then again, that is the character she's portraying so if you'll hate a bit, then she's doing a good job. Despite that, her voice is beautiful that any situations she's in, happy or sad, she could easily break out into song.

Finn Hudson (Cory Monteith) is also one of the main characters. Unfortunately, I couldn't relate to his character because it does fall short of a true football player, considering he was suppose to be head of the pack. Unfortunately, he does fall in the stupid or clueless category but the thing that I don't get is his being clumsy - not very true to someone in his stature in the school. Come on, if you think you can get a girl pregnant by dipping in a bath tub??? - get it? As far as his performances, I truly like his talent but as far as popularity in school - i'm a tad bit skeptic about that. When he was slurped in one of the episodes because of him joining the Glee Club, that suits him well.

Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) is the music teacher in the Glee Club, New Directions. I was and still having a hard time getting his character. Though I appreciate him being enthusiastic with music and his students but for him to act like a child dancing and singing like his one of the students is a but over-bearing for me. One some songs that he would be mature and relaxed it suits him well but this "busta move" type of song and dance, I do get agitated. He should let the kids do the dancing and singing, and him just to guide them.  Don't get me wrong, Matthew is talented but no need to exaggerate and be more of a educator rather than a teenager, trying to be in.

Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch) is the coach of the Cheerios, the cheerleading team of the school. This character is priceless and I think she's the glue that sticks the whole story together. Her attacks towards Will with his hair could sometimes be under the belt humor but honestly, she makes a good point with the wavy hairstyle. The irony of her attacks towards New Direction leaves you at the edge of your seat, wondering what would happen next, and once it happens, you have a sense of appreciation for what she did or what will be doing. And her special relationship with her sister with down-syndrome is very touching, making her more human then ever. And of course the Madonna tribute/episode really elevated her to a place where you have sincere respect for her. I believe that her homosexuality contributed to fulfilling her role as a headstrong, determined educator and  supporter (or detractor) of  the New Directors or it could be timely and coincidence. Regardless, you could never find a better actor to play this role like Jane Lynch.

Kurt Hammel (Chris Colfer) a true rose among the roses.  His role as a homosexual student really contributes to the validation and realization that homosexuality is a fact and exists in the school environment.  I do appreciate the significance of this role, putting balance and variety to the group of singing students.  I'm sure a lot of viewers could relate to this, admitting it or not.  I find amusement on his relationship with his father, played by Mike O'Malley, especially when Kurt confronts him of his sexuality. Though that would be the ideal way to spill the beans, it does prove that most parents are more liberal minded about these things. The mere fact that this issue has been shown in the series, made it more realistic and acknowledging that this exist is a good eye-opener for those people who are in a similar situation. And let's not forget the talent of Chris. He is really good in all his numbers. I really liked his version of Defying Gravity not only because it's very applicable to him but he could really give justice to the song which is sung by female artists (special mention to Idina Menzel).

Mercedes Jones (Amber Riley) is one of the members of New Directions.  I must admit that I am a little frustrated with her, not because she did something wrong, but she really gets little roles and numbers.  With that voice of hers, she should shine every now and then.  True enough she has more numbers when she joined Cheerios compared to New Directions.  When she sang Beautiful as a Cheerios singer, she was glowing.  She is like a volcano, waiting to break out in song when given the opportunity.    I can't wait to see more of Mercedes in the future and they better give the casts some moments to radiate with their character and talent.  To Amber:  You Rock Girl!!!

Artie Abrams (Kevin McHale) is someone who was clueless to me at first. I really thought he was disabled but then later realized that he is not and actually is a male singing group before Glee. I also was astonished when he danced and sang Safety Dance in one of the episodes. So not only does he sing well but dances as well.  A true talent indeed. I would only wish that eventually he could dance and sing more so as to showcase his talent in the show. Being in the wheelchair does limits his ability to perform but then again that was done intentionally because of his character. About his relationship with Jenna, I also hope this would bloom and somehow has more depth in the seasons and episodes to come.

Tina Cohen-Chang (Jenna Ushkowitz) is also a talent that was not really exposed in season 1. It's a good demographic to represent the Asians which is a good mix with the other cast. Since she has very few numbers at the show, the tendency is to focus on her acting and she really is a good one. I like the episode where her gothic look was noticed by Principal Figgins and when she tried to change, she was not the same (this was the Lady Gaga episode) but then eventually she lashed out at Principal Figgins that she will not change just to conform with school image. The way she did was amazing and truly funny. I hope she gets more numbers on the next season also with her relationship with Artie would bloom.

Quinn Fabray (Dianna Agron)

Noah Puckerman (Mark Salling)

Emma Pillsbury (Jayma Mays) is the guidance counselor. Ironic but she also needs some help with intimacy issues especially with Will. Looks like the next season we'll some more developments in their relationship. Watching Emma sings is very refreshing and I do enjoy watching her. It would be nice though if she could have more numbers in the next season and hopefully something to do with the students or her personal life and not just on love and relationship. Her comedic timing is perfect with her soft, subtle voice.

Brittney (Heather Morris) and Santana Lopez (Naya Rivera)

Ken Tanaka (Patrick Gallagher) is the coach of the football team.  Though there were no episode that he burst into song but I would really like to see how he does it. After the break-up with Emma, he seemed to disappear. Hopefully he'll have more scenes in the next season. Just an idea, it would be nice if he would be another antagonist for Will just like Sue. That would be very interesting.


All pictures of cast courtesy of fox.com/glee