Glee Review: Who is the Unicorn?

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Let me start by saying: EWWWW. Throwing ketchup-covered tampons at a marching band, or anyone at all, is an absolutely disgusting prank. Well played, I guess, Skanks.

There are plenty of props to be handed out from "I Am Unicorn," though," and none of the others will make me gag. Glee delivered another strong episode this week, as it continues to rebound from season two by focusing on character development and realistic dilemmas that will hopefully continue to play out all winter long. To wit:

Making Like a Unicorn

Brittany for President! What a perfect platform for this cheerleader, who was on ignorant, adorable fire throughout the episode (she might be a "bi-corn," she created a number of bulging pink fun sacks for Kurt, she believes "O" is the capital of Ohio). Brittany's initial speech to Kurt was spot-on, followed by a reasonable evolution into Santana convincing her occasional lover to go for the position herself.

There's endless potential here. Can you imagine a Brittany vs. Kurt debate? Campaign videos? Slogans? Send me a button, Britt.

The acceptance of Kurt. Last season, Kurt battled (and battled... and battled...) to be accepted by others, most notable Karofsky. Many viewers agreed that the focus on this eccentric student grew tiresome. But the storyline is flipped around now. Everyone does accept who Kurt is - and that's the problem. It's an understandable issue, too, as this is someone who truly wants to be a star. But of course he'd be pigeon-holed based on his personality and demeanor. That's the case with any actor.

Sometimes you've gotta excite Beiste's lady parts to land a role, and Kurt just isn't the man for that job. My favorite aspect of season three so far is its concentration on the seniors and the topic of how they'll succeed after high school. Kurt always just assumed he'd go on to big things, but the (admirable) fact that he is so open about who he is will actually get in the way of those dreams. Fascinating.

You've also just gotta love any storyline that allows Burt Hummel to utter the following line, and have it actually come across as loving:

You're gay. You're not like Rock Hudson gay. You're really gay. You sing like Diana Ross and you dress like you own a Magic Chocolate Factory. | permalink
Duet on Somewhere

The return of Shelby. A bit hard to believe? Yes. Sugar is a fun new character, and I'm glad the school can now replenish its toilet paper supply (wipe away, everyone)... but Shelby will really be in charge of a second choir?!? When a major challenge for just one choir has been recruiting new members? Feels like a contrived way to bring Idina Menzel back.

But once we accept she is back, the return of Shelby opens up a number of interesting doors. She has seriously intense connections to so many characters, already allowing us to see a new, fatherly side to Puck and to be scared by Quinn's intentions. Full custody?!? I had the same reaction as Puck when she uttered those words. Yikes! Still, nice to see the show is taking its time here and that Quinn didn't go from outcast to enthusiastic singer in under two episodes.

Then, of course, there's the simple matter of Menzel's voice. Wowza! Shelby's duet on "Somewhere" with Rachel was as powerful as any I can recall.

The will of Will. Grow up, Quinn! Whoever performed the spinal surgery on Mr. Schuester in the offseason, thank you.

We were also treated to Finn pondering his post-graduation occupation, as well as many shots of Mike Chang's biceps. With only three songs, all of which were incorporated perfectly into ongoing storylines, "I Am Unicorn" was another example of Glee remaining true to its summer promises: the stunts are gone, the seniors are taking center stage and Becky is sending hilarious texts chock full of auto-corrects. I'm loving it.

What did everyone else think? Submit your best campaign slogans for Brittany or Kurt, check out the promo for "Asian F" and sound off now.

I Am Unicorn Review

Editor Rating: 4.4 / 5.0
  • 4.4 / 5.0
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User Rating:

Rating: 4.3 / 5.0 (223 Votes)

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.

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Glee Season 3 Episode 2 Quotes

A unicorn is someone who knows he's popular, but isn't afraid to show it.

Brittany

Out of all the kids in this school, I think you are the biggest unicorn.

Brittany