The Big Bang Theory Season 10 Episode 1 Review: The Conjugal Conjecture

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The Big Bang Theory is back with a season premiere that's funny, endearing, and not quite long enough.

If you've been reading my reviews, you know by now that I had high hopes for another wedding ceremony for Leonard and Penny.

The ceremony we get on The Big Bang Theory Season 10 Episode 1 is definitely personal for Leonard and Penny. I just wish we could have spent more time with it.

Otherwise, though, if this episode is any indication of what The Big Bang Theory Season 10 will be like, then I think we're in for something wonderful.

Penny's family is a fun touch, specifically with Jack McBrayer as her brother, Kenneth Randall.

He's definitely not what we would expect after hearing about Penny's troubled brother, but the light-hearted spin on that character is a joy to watch. It also seems to explain a lot about Penny and her relationship with the guys.

They aren't obvious, but I see similarities between Randall and Sheldon, who has become a lot like a brother to Penny over the past ten years.

Of course, it wouldn't be a wedding without awkward family drama, and that's exactly what we get since Alfred and Mary spend the night together.

This might be one of my favorite storylines on The Big Bang Theory. Ever. It creates such possibilities for the group dynamic – and so many funny moments. 

So did you defile my mother, or not?

Sheldon

We also see vulnerability in Beverly. That's something we saw on The Big Bang Theory Season 9 Episode 24 when she admitted to being hurt by not being a part of her son's wedding, and now she feels humiliated (and likely jealous, though she doesn't admit it) by Alfred and Mary.

The wedding itself is endearing, and I love any chance to see the main characters all in the same place. There's a good bit of bickering and tension among the guests, but Bernadette shuts it down. Quick. Really, they couldn't have chosen anyone better to marry them. 

I do think some of that bickering takes away from the ceremony. Maybe I can't be satisfied at this point. After all, as the second wedding, and in a tenth season, expectations have to be high. I'd have been happy with a full episode that focused on the wedding AND a reception. 

That, to me, seems like a missed opportunity, especially with all of these fun guest stars in one place. 

There are a couple of hints that make me think Leonard and Penny may be moving in together for real soon – and letting Sheldon go. First, is Sheldon's concern over whether he and Leonard would end up being brothers.

I hope you're right. Because a grown man living with his brother and his brother's wife is weird.

Sheldon

Second, is a moment that pretty well sums up the dynamic of the show. Because Leonard and Penny's second wedding is most satisfying because of the way it affects the guests. Leonard's parents manage to be nice to each other long enough to admit the one good thing that's come from their relationship: Leonard. 

Sheldon, more importantly, jumps up to make his feelings about both of his friends known, and stands with both of them as Bernadette pronounces them husband and wife.

I now pronounce you husband and wife... and weird other husband who came with the apartment.

Bernadette

Other Thoughts:

  • Dean Norris guest stars in this episode, leaving Howard and Raj terrified – and continuing to be paranoid.
  • Stuart gets a genuinely funny moment when he lands himself in between Leonard's bickering and awkward parents. Because of course he does.
  • It's a nice touch that Amy plays the harp for the wedding. I wonder why Raj, Howard, and Sheldon don't have more specific roles? It's a small wedding, sure, but it seems they would have.

What did you think of the season premiere of The Big Bang Theory? And what are your hopes for the season going forward? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Need to catch up on past episodes? You can always watch The Big Bang Theory online right here via TV Fanatic. Watch online now!

The Conjugal Conjecture Review

Editor Rating: 4.2 / 5.0
  • 4.2 / 5.0
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User Rating:

Rating: 3.9 / 5.0 (138 Votes)

Ashley Bissette Sumerel was a staff writer for TV Fanatic. She retired in September 2017. Follow her on Twitter and on Google+.

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