Grey's Anatomy Season 11 Episode 8 Review: Risk

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The carousel never stops turning...

From Meredith's memories with her mother to her meeting Derek for the very first time, every flashback was a reminder of how moments in life can be incredibly haunting.

For the most part, Grey's Anatomy Season 11 Episode 8 was heartbreaking. As a long time Grey's Fanatic, I've learned that the writing is often on the wall for the doctors we've grown to love over the years. It's seldom there are rainbows and sunshine at GSMH. At times, storylines can be predictable - but that doesn't mean it makes it any easier to watch.

Even before the promos, I had a feeling that something would be very wrong with Japril's baby. It was devastating when Dr. Herman confirmed what Stephanie and Arizona already knew: the child has a very rare bone disease. The baby will die within days of its delivery. Poor Japril!

As for Meredith and Derek, there were no temporary time outs this time around. After spending the entire installment arguing about Maggie's patient and much more, Derek and Meredith both agreed that he should take the job with the POTUS. 

Meredith and Derek have always been my favorite couple, but their relentless fighting has me thinking that maybe Derek temporarily leaving would be a good thing. Their story has seen ups and downs, but they've yet to reach a breaking point like where they are at now in their marriage. 

It's easy to say that the two just need to learn how to communicate and learn a thing or two about work life balance. So as long as Meredith and Derek find their way back together and are stronger than ever, I'm okay with seeing them struggle to try to figure things out. They've both got their faults, and maybe some space would help them see things more clearly.

Much like life, nothing ever comes easy. 

In fact, take a look at both Callie and Arizona. I'm really glad that that Calzona had a moment where they pretended that everything was okay between them. In that short instance, they both reminded each other that they would push through and be just fine regardless of their circumstances.

Callie worked with Owen to help two competitively friendly vets. When one vet was severely hurt, Callie wanted to take a step back from the program. Owen convinced her otherwise, and she offered hope to another patient who eventually was able to walk again. 

As for Arizona, she received promising news when learning that Amelia thinks that she can save Dr. Herman's life. By the way, I thought it was kind of cute how Amelia's fascination grew exponentially as she reviewed Dr. Herman's scans one by one. I've said it before, and I'll say it again... I am so glad that Amelia is in Seattle now. 

And last, but definitely not least, I absolutely loved that Jolex had such a sweet moment together. Seriously, how adorable were they? We need to see more of them in the second half of this season. 

Other Thoughts:

  • Amelia opening up to Owen about her past was significant for a number of reasons. I'm hoping it's the start of a new friendship between these two.
  • I'm glad that Maggie and Richard will be getting coffee soon enough. Baby steps!
  • Kale smoothies and counting steps? Bailey, I've been there and done that. It's not fun, but hang in there because every bit helps.
  • Be sure to return next week to chime in on the Grey's Anatomy Round Table.

Overall, I thought "Risk" was drama-filled and it even tugged at my heartstrings. This winter finale was a defining moment for many reasons and for several of the couples. It left me wanting more. Mission accomplished?! Yes, is it January yet?

What did you think of this winter finale? What would you like to see when Grey's Anatomy returns next year? Hit the comments now to share your thoughts!

Don't forget you can catch up with your favorite doctors when you watch Grey's Anatomy online via TV Fanatic!

Risk Review

Editor Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
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User Rating:

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0 (144 Votes)
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Grey's Anatomy Season 11 Episode 8 Quotes

Amelia: I know I'm a risk.
Owen: We're all a risk. We all have something.

Sorry, kale rage going on.

Bailey

Grey's Anatomy Season 11 Episode 8 Music

  Song Artist
Deeper Ella Eyre iTunes
Home Aron Wright iTunes
Run Marsha Ambrosius iTunes