TV Review: Gossip Girl 2.8 – Pret-a-Poor-J

Posted by Michelle Graham (michelle@filmschoolrejects.com) on October 28, 2008

Gossip Girl, The CW, Airs Monday 8/7c

Episode: “Pret-a-Poor-J” (Season 2, Episode 8)

Synopsis: Blair & Chuck’s cat and mouse challenge over saying those three little words finally comes to an end, in a manner of speaking. Serena and Dan attempt to solidify their friendship, leading to a possible new relationship for Serena and a lot of stress for Dan. Jenny makes a stand for independence after Eleanor continues to take credit for her designs without any quid pro quo. Nate starts playing knight in shining armor to a whole new damsel in distress.

Review: It seems that Blair and Chuck may have finally come to an understanding in their power plays. There are a few possible ramifications from this, not least of which is the possibility that Serena and Dan’s drama will once again rear its ugly head, especially as Serena has set her eyes on an artist showing in Dan’s family gallery. Here’s hoping that this is not the case, as it’s a true breath of fresh air to have entire episodes devoid of the angst the S&D relationship brings to the screen. I’m all for the pair of them making it work as a couple, but until the Ross & Rachel back and forthing ends, it’s best not to spend week upon week analyzing and inching toward any sort of progress. Besides, Chuck and Blair are far more compelling when at their backstabbing best.

Speaking of the Humphrey clan, it seems that lil’ J may well be making new friends outside her comfort zone, but is the new face of Humphrey fashions really someone J should be socializing with? Agnes has managed to encourage Jenny to escape Eleanor Waldorf’s thieving clutches, but is it wise for a budding designer to make an enemy of one of fashion’s most established names before she even releases her first line? Not only that, but encouraging a girl old enough to be following boy-bands to dance around in her underwear in front of a photographer doesn’t seem like the healthiest thing to be doing. Here’s hoping J’s decisions don’t leave her wishing she could turn back the clock… This storyline could be really great for Taylor Momsen’s character, but with the actress out of commission due to health considerations, not to mention in need of severe fashion rescue (the girl looked like Pete Doherty for most of the episode! Heroin chic is so 90s, J) I hope that the promise isn’t lost.

The episode played pretty strong, though Blair’s tricks to encourage Chuck back into her oh-so-willing arms were a little tame for her. Jenny’s drama is compelling, in tumbling down the rabbit hole she’s either opened up a world of opportunity or she’s cut herself off from her life. The next decisions she makes could make or break her. Of course, Nate’s step back into his (in-need-of-a-polish) armor means that it’s not all doom and gloom for her. Dan, on the other hand, may be in need of some painkillers if he has to watch the ex-love-of-his-life melting over an artist from his gallery. There’s something lacking, but nothing is ever what it seems on Gossip Girl. Next week could be a whole new ball game.

Up Next Week: “There Might Be Blood” – Serena pursues her artist for a relationship, whilst Blair continues her pursuit of the Yale college experience. Meanwhile, Jenny and Agnes attempt to launch Jenny’s design career with a risky maneuver that could ruin her chances. But is she really a good influence?

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