Well, it looks like the show is on a groove. This week marks the second Coach episode, and it’s one of the funniest episodes to date. I’ve seen some grumblings about Coach, but I wouldn’t be so quick to jump the gun. First of all, Damon Wayans Jr. is absolutely hilarious. Second, on a character level, the show has a fantastic opportunity here; it’s just a matter of how well it’s executed.
Coach isn’t just a new presence in the loft; he’s flashier and more experienced. So far, we’ve seen him give advice to the others and call them out when they need it, and it’s a welcome change because these aren’t people that normally venture out of their comfort zones. We saw Winston stand up for himself last week due to Coach’s teasing, and that’s essentially what Coach does: he’s over the top, but it’s that personality that the others look up to. Coach fitting in better could cause Winston to reevaluate his place in the group and work to achieve something.
Do I wish Winston had more to do before? Yes. However, given the situation with his character, I feel like expanding on the Winston-Coach dynamic would help him. The writers haven’t wanted to expand on his relationships with the others, so this is the best we have. I really, really hope it leads somewhere other than Winston’s regular superfluous side stories.
As for the rest of the episode, Zooey Deschanel does amazing work as Conservation Jess, conveying the frustration of the situation and the traits that make her who she is. Her hot dog speech is comedy gold, as well as her anger at the restaurant owner as he’s closing the door (“I’m gonna burn down your building! I won’t do that, I won’t do that.”). As for Nick, I love seeing him interact with Coach; their dumpling fight is the best thing ever.
GRADE: A-
OTHER THOUGHTS:
-“You’ll be able to see your abs.” “I thought God just didn’t give me those.”
-“What’s up, Jason Street?” Oh man, this FNL reference makes my week.
-“I ain’t a quitter. IRONSIDE!”
-“Remember when you sat out that game because you were sad?” “I was also cold.”
-Ghostbusters sign.
-“I’m old-fashioned, Coney Island fat strong.”
-“Are you a doer or a dumpling-er?”
-Jess’s reaction to compliments is adorable.
-“PEANUTS stands for ‘Physical Education Activity Nuts!”
Credit to FOX and New Girl for all pictures. I own nothing.
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