Nip/Tuck, F/X, Airs Tuesday 10pm E/P

Episode: “Gene Shelly” (Season 5, Episode 16)

Synopsis: Christian’s view of himself as an alpha-male is challenged as he battles on against breast cancer, an issue which isn’t helped when a patient questions his ability to perform surgery. Liz is there to support him as he begins chemo, but confused minds and lost identities lead to a confusing bedroom situation. Meanwhile, Sean’s big secret is discovered, just as his family is starting to solidify around him.

Review: This episode really seemed to fly by, but surprisingly this is a good thing. Poor Christian, his life can’t suck much more right now. His best friend is refusing to do his operation, his ex humiliates him and even the prostitute he hires takes him down. There’s nothing worse than a cheap hooker challenging your masculinity. Thank goodness he has someone to turn to in his life. Usually it would be Sean standing strong beside him, but Liz is filling that role nicely. Even better, the dynamic between them is really sweet and may even have potential. However, the scene in the bedroom is a little odd. What exactly happened there? I know that I for one was left floundering, completely confused and even more surprisingly, rooting for the pair! Of course Christian’s brash personality did ruin it later, but for a minute there it felt good.

Another big surprise was that Sean’s secret got out so fast. Apparently the writers are not saving this for the big end of season arc, but wish to be done with it asap, and what better way to do it than with Sean being put in a nappy. From the minute that woman uttered “mommy” for the first time, this was on the cards, but dear sweet Lord, seeing him in a diaper was quite giggle-worthy. Sean seems to have been put soundly in his place though, as Christian’s speech (a very nice moment, it has to be said) got through to him enough to get him out of the chair and standing by his friend again. It may have taken a while, but at least he’s there now.

So if the big secret’s out, what will the rest of the season bring? Well, Christian and Liz have a lot to talk about, Sean & Julia need to have a pow-wow, Matt may need to have his head examined (though he’s needed that since episode 1) and Dr. Creepy-17-Year-Old-Genius needs to leave. Soon. If he’s calling out for his mother while on the way to orgasm, he’s already screwed up enough. Sticking around McNamara/Troy won’t do him any favors, that’s for sure! Oh, and of course Christian has to beat the cancer, but that feels like a foregone conclusion. Who says you need gimmicks to keep a plot moving?

Up Next Week: “Roxy St. James” – Sean tries to come to terms with his feelings for Julia. Christian attends a breast cancer survivors’ meeting, where he meets someone who understands what he’s going through. Most importantly though, Liz and Christian analyze their relationship.

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