Hopeless:
Written by: Nan Hagan
Directed by: Krishna Rao
Original airdate: January 31, 2001
Synopsis:
As Gretchen catches some flack from Gail about taking personal calls at work, she asks Dawson if he's ready to take the next step in their relationship: the meeting of her friends. Meanwhile, Joey, needing time off of work to attend the senior trip, is ordered by Ms Valentine to bring Pacey along on a date that Drue has with Anna, the daughter of the yacht club's president, and to make sure the daughter enjoys herself or Joey won't be getting any days off. Meanwhile Dawson works on the documentary with Mr. Brooks, who asks him to sign some papers so that he can pick up the man's medicine rather than have to go get it himself or with Grams. Later as the two finish up a scene in the movie, Brooks asks Dawson to help him to his chair and in doing so, the old man gives the young man a short tearful hug.
Elsewhere Tobey shows up to the McPhee household to offer Jack yet another snide remark before inviting him to help him with some tutoring he does in the evening. Despite saying he wasn't sure about going, he later does show up and begins helping a young student who never quite liked coming to the class but after Jack inspires him by helping him to write a story, he's happier than ever before, something that seems to impress Tobey, who invites him out for a coffee. However when the two arrive at the coffeehouse, Jack sees that Tobey is meeting a couple and is worried that he and Tobey will be seen as a couple and he backs out, telling Tobey that he’s just not into him.
Dawson starts to head out with Gretchen and her friends but Gail intervenes with motherly concern, properly embarrassing the young boy before his girlfriend's over 21 crowd. As they drive to the club to see a band, Gretchen's friends regale her with tales of their recent sexual exploits, making Dawson slightly uncomfortable. Later at the club, after Dawson gets a hand stamp to signify that he is underage and can't drink, the drunken girls reminisce about their history of bad choices in men and the lists they keep of the bad choices and losers they've slept with while Gretchen assures Dawson he won't end up on the loser list.
Meanwhile on Drue's date, he does everything to show his distaste for Anna, while Joey and especially Pacey try to keep her spirits up, even going so far as to try and help her sink some balls while playing miniature golf and win a prize during an arcade game. Joey talks with Drue after he insults her yet again and he starts to actually open up and reveal that he does like Anna, but has no experience in dealing with girls aside from trying to pick them up and sleep with them. Joey advises him to just be open and honest and the rest will take care of itself. Indeed when Anna returns and Pacey and Joey leave, Drue opens up to Anna and when she asks him about whether he considers her likable cute or annoying ditzy cute, he confirms likable.
Back at Brooks' house, he and Grams are having a date night playing some Scrabble when Grams notices he looks tired. As she puts the game away, she notices that Brooks hasn't been taking his medicine for seemingly weeks. He tries to blow it off but eventually says he prefers to live life on his terms rather than live it without dignity.
Back home, Pacey and Joey begin talking about the elephant in the room: their lack of a sex life. Pacey explains that after 8 months, he wants to move their relationship to another level and Joey confirms that she wants to as well but keeps holding back for some reason. After they both confess they’re scared, Joey asks if they can just be scared together.
After Gretchen and friends decide to hit up a favorite old bar haunt of theirs, Dawson decides to bow out and head home since he is underage and would just cramp their style, which actually wins him points with the girls for being an understanding boyfriend. Dawson gets home and confides in his mother that he didn’t have such a great time, reasoning that she may have been right earlier about the age difference between him and Gretchen, but Gail admits that she was wrong, and that her son is right to put himself out there and to see where it goes. Gretchen suddenly shows up, explaining that she felt bad and wanted to see him, and that her friends completely approve of him. Dawson tells her that he doesn’t want to be the nice guy that a woman dates after a bad relationship because it’s a safe relationship, but Gretchen throws those fears out the window and the two kiss. After Gretchen leaves, Dawson heads over to see Mr. Brooks but finds the man laying on the floor. DUN DUN DUNNNNNN!!!
Dawson's Trivia:
Anna was played by Sabine Singh. Her best known role is in All My Children as Greenlee Smythe for 158 episodes. Other than that she’s only had a handful of guest spots in various TV shows and movies.
Rachel True played Kira. She headlined the series Half & Half for 91 episodes (2 half sisters try to bond as adults). Most recently she was one of the leads in Horror Noire (6 horror stories from black directors), and she was in Agnes as well (demonic possession at a convent). She has a long history of horror movies under belt, going back to The Craft. She was a minor player in Sharknado 2: The Second One, but then a lead in Sharknado: Heart of Sharkness, albeit as a different character.
Krishna Rao is best known as a cinematographer. He does have 10 TV show credits as a director, with several episodes for each show.
The song "Hopeless" by Dionne Ferris is what Gretchen and her friends sing along to in the car. It is proudly called out as being from the New Line Cinema Film "Love Jones" on Spotify.
A Winter's Tale:
Written by: Zack Estrin & Chris Levinson
Directed by: Greg Prange
Original airdate: February 7, 2001
Synopsis:
While Jack, Jen, Joey, Pacey, Drue and Anna, under the guise of a student named Penny, all attend the senior class ski trip, Dawson remains behind with Grams to look after Mr. Brooks who has fallen into a coma. Doctor Bronin informs Dawson and his parents that the papers Dawson signed fall under a state law that gives the young man the power of attorney over Mr. Brooks, giving him the choice to maintain or not maintain life support. Dawson asks his parents how he can possibly know what’s best in this situation but Mitch answers that this isn’t the type of situation where you can know.
Back at the ski trip, while their teacher states that everyone will be bunking together with members of the same sex, Drue grabs a couple of keys from the teacher’s aide for himself and Anna, Jen and Jack, and Joey and Pacey so that they all can room together instead. Pacey and Joey have a very tense conversation about sex which makes things uncomfortable for both of them. They head off to dinner and while there Drue and the gang are talking about sex and Joey refutes the idea that the boys all have condoms in their wallets leading them all to show her that they do, except Pacey who says he left his wallet in the room. Joey asks him about it later, calling him in his lie and finds out that he did indeed have a condom in his wallet as well.
Dawson works on his documentary about Brooks, when Gretchen stops by and the two talk about their own experiences with death, with Dawson at a loss for why Brooks chose him. Gretchen explains it’s likely that Brooks saw his old heart and knew that whatever decision had to be made, that he would make the right one.
Joey confides in Jack about her and Pacey’s issue concerning sex and he counters with the idea that instead of worrying about the right or wrong choice, just consider that there are choices and the fear that one feels when facing a choice is what makes life exciting and shows you whether a choice is worthwhile or not.
Dawson talks with Grams back at the hospital about why she is there to which she replies to pray and for the quiet. Dawson isn’t sure what to pray for, not having done it since a child, and she asks him what his instincts tell him about what to do concerning Brooks, and he says they tell him to wait which is what Grams says they should do then. Later a man shows up to the room and proclaims to the comatose Brooks that he will “get to see her first.” Dawson recognizes him as the actor that ran away with Ellie and the man explains that he always meant to call after she passed away but never did because he was the one who had many years with the girl and a full family, while he knew Brooks had lost out and didn’t want to cause him any more hurt.
Meanwhile, Jen, who has now several times injured herself just walking around the camp and her and Jack’s room during the trip, decides to raid the mini bar and drink herself into a stupor when Jack arrives and eventually after deciding he’s tired of playing things safe, joins her in her drunkenness. Later, as the two get properly sloshed, Jack confesses he’s worried about ending up alone and the two begin making out, but Jen stops it before it goes too far. As she goes to throw away the empty bottles, Mr. Kasdan sees her but she passes it off as “recycling.”
Meanwhile, after hearing Brooks’ old friend’s words, and surrounded by Gretchen, Grams, and his parents, Dawson has come to the decision to let Brooks pass on. Afterwards, they gather at home and look at one of Brooks’ old pictures in tribute to him.
Back at the senior trip, Pacey and Joey have another tense moment and as they talk, Pacey confesses that he is scared that the reason they haven’t moved forward on sex is because part of Joey’s heart belongs to Dawson and he is worried that she is waiting for her first time to be with him. He leaves the room and wanders around until Anna sees him and offers to console him as he did for her the previous week on her date with Drue, only this time, console means having sex according to the young wanton woman. Pacey turns her down, explaining how much Joey means to him, so much that he will wait as long as it is needed because that’s how much he cares for her.
Elsewhere Joey calls up Dawson to offer her support for his situation and he talks to her about making decisions on instinct when it’s all too much for your brain to handle, and that in turn it makes the letting go and making a decision on instinct feel so freeing. Joey goes and finds Pacey and the two make up as she recalls why she loves him. The two retire to their room and Joey decides that it is finally time for them to move to the next level as they embrace, kiss, and decide “let’s get down to business.” “Bow chicka wow wow!”
Dawson's Trivia:
Andy Griffith played Andrew Lanier. He is known, of course, for being the star of The Andy Griffith Show and then later Matlock. He guest starred in too many shows to count over the years, and he died in 2012 at 86 of a heart attack.
The doctor was played by Tony Hale who is best known for playing Buster Bluth in Arrested Development, and Gary Walsh in Veep. He’s done a lot of voice work for animation projects such as The Angry Birds Movie, Archibald’s Next Big Thing (series), various villains from The Harley Quinn adult animated series, Paul The Feels from Birdgirl (spin-off of Harvey Birdman: Attorney General), and Forky from Toy Story 4. Recently he led a movie called Eat Wheaties in which his character tries to convince people he went to college with a celebrity (also stars Elisha Cuthbert), and a series called The Mysterious Benedict Society (orphans go on an adventure enlisted by an eccentric benefactor). He’s also in the new movie Clifford the Big Red Dog, and will also be a supporting cast member in the upcoming Hocus Pocus 2.
The character of Arthur Brooks passed away from pancreatic cancer on the show. The real actor, Harve Presnell died of pancreatic cancer 8 years later.
During roll call on the bus, the main cast’s real last names are called including Holmes, Williams, Smith and Jackson.
Fisher was an American band consisting of songwriter Ron Wasserman and vocalist Kathy Fisher. The band was known for their selling songs through internet marketing; they received a record deal from their success at MP3.com. In 2000, Time magazine said that they were "about to become the biggest Internet-based band ever". Their song "I Will Love You" hit #36 on the Billboard Adult Top 40 chart in 2000. In 2000, it was named the most downloaded song in Internet history.
Essential Playlist:
Classic Creek Critiques:
Deputy Doug gives us the lowdown on Michelle Williams absences: Michelle was filming a movie in England during October-November. The episodes we've been seeing were filmed during that time. We should be just about done with the Michelle-less episodes.
The movie was Me Without You. Not a whole lot is known about it at this point. The basic plot is - Set during the 1970s and '80s. The film follows best friends on the outskirts of London from ages 16-27, when they start having children. There is an American professor who has fling with both of them and creates a rift in their friendship. Anna Friel and Michelle are the best friends. Kyle MacLachlan is the professor. The movies was written and directed by Sandra Goldbacher. Keep checking in with The Williams Center for updates as they come in.
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Cindy Morgan is sad: I don't want Mr. Brooks to die! Darn it! He is such a nice man! And just when Dawson is getting really attached. The scene when they hugged made me tear up and then darn it, when Dawson walked in at the end to find him on the floor! I CRIED!
~La Angel says: he's not dead...the previews showed dawson and grams going to the hospital
to check on him.
SLYN11 agrees: I like the relationship between Dawson and Mr. Brooks too. It is exactly what Dawson needed in his life - an adult he could look up to and learn from. However, even if Mr. Brooks were not terminally ill, his storyline would be limited since the gang is going off to college next year.
Mel says: I SO cried when they hugged. Cause Mr. Brooks had tears in his eyes and i was like sobbing. Then when Dawson found him on the floor my jaw was dropped. I was like OMG! But you know what I gathered? You know how he had Dawson sign those papers? I think that was like a will type thing. Like
giving Dawson the right to something of his. Like maybe his boat or something of the sort. Did anyone else think the same thing??
Brent E Clark has spoilers: According to Wanda of E!Online, Dawson has to make a decision on whether someone he loves, lives or not. Which means that it looks like Mr. Brooks is going to have to put on a machine to "LIVE" and Dawson has to decide wether he should pull the "plug" or not. (Remember Dawson signing that paper that "gave him authority to get his medication" well instead that gave him "Power of Attorney" and basically he is like the guardian of Mr. Brooks. So Dawson decides if Mr. Brooks lives by machine or dies.) Also because he had Dawson sign that, looks like he tried to committ suicide either by not taking his medication-we did see him put the pills in his pocket a couple of times-or overdosing by taking too many. On the other hand, perhaps he felt weak because he wasn't taking them and decided to take more to get better and overdid it. Mr. Brooks at the beginning was a pain, but warmed up to me especially when he started dating Gramps. Sorry to see him go (you know he is going to die-damm going to tough on Gramps more I think") but said someone earlier, they are "moving" to Boston next season and the rest of the cast aside from the kids are going to fade away.
Flkofcguls says WELL ACTUALLY: It's going to be very interesting to see how the writers are going to implement this storyline, seeing as how a 17 year old can NOT be legally responsible for such a thing. Nowhere, no how, no way. If they do plan on pursuing such a storyline, they may as well add gnomes and unicorns to the cast and make it into a real fantasy.
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Marcia is not a Jocey/Poey lover: So, they finally do it, huh? Hmm . . . I mean, I'm pro "P & J" and all, but damn, I still think this whole thing is a bad move, I think it's the fact that neither of them give off the magic that they did in the beginning of this season, they seem so boring to me now . . . Does anyone agree?
tachyon is not in agreement: I disagree actually. They still have sparks flying when they're together. Just remember that they've been in this realtionship for 8 months now...The honeymoon period is coming to an end. I am totally looking forward to the nookie next week :o) I'm just dreading the breakup later on...
Brian says: If they do go through with this it will be the first episode in a long time where the trailer didn't mislead everyone. They have the most deceptive advertising of any television show I've seen, but this would be taking it to another level.
~La Angel agrees: i agree with her!!! They are boring!! Is there a way to contact the show's writers? They are really pissing me off. They should know better than to let Joey and Pacey get together. Ok I was ok with that for a while, I figured they were creating some elaborate plot for Joey and Dawson. But this sex thing next episode is ridiculous. I know it's already been wrapped and everything but GOD!!! They are SOOOOOOOo DAMMMMNNN STUPID!!!! Everybody knows Joey was waiting for Dawson! And vice versa. This Gretchen thing with Dawson won't last either. It's Dawson and Joey! I just hope she doesn't succumb to his whiney male needs. I know lots of people who have dated for at least a year and still haven't done the deed and he's complaining about 8 months. If he truly did not care about sex then why the hell is he putting this guilt trip on her now. He's SOOO DUMB!!!! There's absolutely no way that their relationship should fall apart if they don't do the deed. Love is so much more than that and Pacey is just showing how immature he is. He needs to get over this "Dawson" idea (however true it is) and get on with life. I mean what type of person is he to say that if they don't have sex soon, the failed relationship won't be his fault! It's totally putting pressure on Joey to give it up and it's a big deal even if it wasn't to him. Joey should recognize these little games and be firm. If sex means that much to him, then I say that he should probably marry his hand. Just because Andy gave it up right away, he shouldn't expect Joey to do it too! Ills be celebrating the break up. I hope they have Joey pull some stunt. After all, the previews don't really have the rep for being dead on accurate. They only good preview was the one before the last episdoe of season 1. When it got to the end and they still hadn't done anything I was freaking out!! but then it was like the last 3 seconds of the show and it finally happened! I was wayyyy too excited. But neways, sorry about the rant guys. I know a lot of people like P and J but i watch them and they don't have that longing passion that Joey and Dawson did and will one day have again. After all, "Love doesn't conquer all. Love ends, and begins again."
Mal P says: Now I'm opposed to sex on Dawsons Creek for a number of reasons, including the destruction of sexual tension between whoever "consumates" their relationship. But to say that Joey was "waiting" for Dawson and somehow owed her virginity to him is just plain wrong. No woman should think that their first time must be with a particular person, other than someone she loves. I'm pretty sure that Joey loves Pacey, and vice verca... tis all that matters. Mind you, I could come up with a dozen reasons as to why else they shouldn't have sex, just not the idea of "ownership".
Violet says: Well, I know a lot more people that have done the deed within a couple of weeks. Or some, even within a day. I think it just depends on the people. In Pacey's case, I do believe that he is becoming increasingly whiney about sex, but you know, he's a guy. Most guys are like that. And he constantly brings up the Dawson issue because, ya know, Joey is constantly holding back *because* of some little part of her that is dedicated to Dawson. I'm glad they're finally progressing to the next stage, but only if it is done because they both want it, which it seems like by the promo.
As for Dawson and Gretchen...I really like them together, so I'd have no problem with them progressing to the next stage, as long as both are ready...heck, I'm even looking forward to the Jack/Jen storyline coming up
SLYN11 says: I think Pacey and Joey having sex is a realistic next step in their relationship. There has never been a couple as intense, and so obviously in love, as this on the Creek. No not even Andie and Pacey....and definitely never Dawson and Joey. The whole idea of Dawson and Joey was a childhood wish for the characters, and a fantasy for diehard fans. Dawson needs to explore his relationship with Gretchen, and hopefully lose the dreaded big V. Joey and Pacey have been getting dull, but I have found that all characters are dull when they are happy and content. (think Mitch and Gale after remarriage) It is the conflict that we crave - so sex or a breakup will bring the excitement back to the Creek. I am just hoping Jen will get a life soon!
Marcia says: Honeymoon period? But, isn't it always supposed to be that way when you're with the person you love; magical, spontaneous . . . gut wrenching? P and J no longer possess this, they do seem like some old married couple, I kinda feel like Mal wanting her and Drue to maybe give it a try . . .
BC says: This show has a tendency to draw out any interesting plotline as long as humanly possible. I'm betting we won't find out next week what happens between pacey and joey. We'll see them get undressed as in the trailer, they'll start fooling around, and then the episode will end. First of all this will make us watch the next episode, and realistically they can't show that much action on the WB. The episde after this one will probably start off with pacey and joey waking up, and talking about what did or did not happen. We might not even find out the truth there though, the writers could possibly put us in the place of Dawson, it is his show after all. They'll let us share in his desire to know what really happened, and we
might have to wait to find out when he does. This is all just guess work on my part. However based on the way this show works; 1 major event = 6+ episodes, I don't think the plot will be revealed completely in next weeks episode. We'll have to wait and see.
~La Angel says: i wasn't referring that she owed him anything. i was just saying that in her mind, that's what she truly expected. it's obvious that she expected her first time to be with dawson and she's showed that a few times. other than that, i agree it should be with some1 u love, but i just don't like the idea
i agree that there are a lot of people who have sex really early into the relationship, but if that's what joey had wanted...the ship provided excellent opportunites.
in the case of dawson, i don't think they'll be telling him that soon. there was a reason he didn't ask joey about the summer on the boat. And whether or not you are over someone, there's still a little part of you that doesn't want to know the truth. and with dawson, i truly think it could kill him regardless of his relationship with gretchen
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Marcia asks: P & J break up? Is this true?
Alberich says: Yes..but it's TEMPORARY. The season ending finale (which thanks to the Hollywood Actors strike...could very well be curtains for the series in general...will have a big surprise ending. A grand sendoff for Joey and Pacey.
PJ Browning says: there will be no actors strike. that was resolved already. now it's the writers to worry about. last time there were talks, they lasted 22 weeks and the fall season was totally screwed up
Flkofcguls says: the actors strike has NOT been resolved. you're refering to the commercial actors strike. this is a brand new one and is due to hit once the contracts run out on July 1, 2001.
PJ Browning says: and if you take a visit to the Guild website you will see this in the 'talking points': While there’s been much speculation about a strike when the TV/Theatrical contract expires on June 30, SAG and AFTRA have not said one word about going on strike. In fact, as early as last September, SAGPresident Bill Daniels has said that he believes there is a deal to be made, and SAG and AFTRA always approach negotiations with that attitude---that a deal can be made. And as someone that lives in L.A., I follow the hollywood news, closely.
Flkofcguls retorts: Wow, you insider, you! I guess that must be why everyone I work with is kicking back, drinking lattes and shooting the breeze, not worrying that not one but two strikes may be due to hit before the summer is over. If you actually digested any Hollywood news, other than Entertainment Tonight. You'd realize no one knows anything for certain and that the industry is scrambling like crazy and has been for the past few months to safeguard itself against both of these strikes. Go back to your job at Starbucks now.
PJ Browning hits back: FYI. I do read/watch more than Entertainment Tonight. Like the press releases from WGA, SAG etc. And just because the TV networks are preparing for the worst, doesn't mean that it's gonna happen. No one wants a repeat of last time. It's bad for everyone. So they are doing their best to work things out before it gets to that point.
Found at the Writers Guild site (not entertainment weekly) "On January 22nd, 2001, the Writers Guild of America, west and East began negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) representing the studios and major production companies, ABC, CBS and NBC. The goal of the negotiations is to bargain and reach agreement on the terms for a new contract for film and television writers." [those talks are now in day 14. the fact that the talks haven't dissolved into chaos is a damm good sign that they are working out the issues] from the guild president: "These talks will begin in what can only be described as a frenzy of industry and media conjecture. Many have come to refer to "the strike" as if there is no doubt our negotiations will fail. We disagree. Writers serving on your Board of Directors, the Council of Writers Guild East, and on our joint Negotiating Committee share our belief that a strike is not inevitable." and for SAG, regarding the upcoming talks this is NOT insider info. If you will take your butt and your browser to http://www.wga.org and http://www.sag.org you can read for yourself.
the networks are stupid, all the time. They love to be ready 'just in case' but that doesn't mean that it's gonna happen.
Flkofcguls tries again: I've been trying to ignore the multiple posts, but it seems someone else's
buttons were pushed. All I responded to originally was the fact that no strike had been settled, a
mistake that had been made on here and corrected once before. Then you got all high and mighty for no reason and you needed to be taken down. Nothing is settled. Talks are talks. You said the impending strike had been settled, I corrected you, you got an attitude, I responded in kind. End of story.
Now you're down, so stay down.
PJ Browning ends it: by publicly insulting my intelligence and implying that I'm a naive little child that should go back to the 'cafe lattes' that isn't correcting. Correcting is more like "yes the commerical actors strike is settled, however there are also the talks for the SAG contract that ends in June 30" that is correcting. and I don't think that posting exact quotes from the source (which clarify the issue of talks about a strike) is an attitude. But if you do then you have my permission to add me to your kill file.
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Mal P reviews: Hello everyone! It is quite surprising to note that most of the discussion for this weeks
episode revolves around Jack and Jen's "fling", rather than the expected Pacey/Joey "sex" storyline. This is quite refreshing, and perhaps Joey losing her virginity isn't quite as big an issue as one would have thought!
To the episode, I found it to be rather disjointed, and I agree with the majority of posters that the storylines didn't flow as well as they could have. The contrast between the happiness and joy of the ski-trip versus the depression and gloom of the hospital could have been a powerful and poignant aspect of the show to follow... but like with many things, the writers/directors failed to pull it off with any real conviction. I refer to
another show "The West Wing", and going back to a season 1 episode, you may remember the funeral of a homeless Korean war vetern, contrasting with the bright lights and joyful warmth of Christmas. That was executed hauntingly, and there was a definite difference between the two moods. However, with "A Winters Tale", not only did the Hospital "portion" of the show appear to be drab and depressing, so did the Ski-trip! (btw, did anyone actually ski on the trip?) I failed to see any exuberance or joy on behalf of *any*
Character.
As to the sex aspect of the show... I'm over it. As Dawson once said, what's done is done, and there's no point sitting here being disenchanted with it. Instead, I'll focus on the positives, including what was good about the sex. Well, apart from the obvious <g>
Dawson. To be honest, I wasn't sure what to think of how de dealt with the loss of his dear friend, Arthur Brooks to Cancer. It could certainly be said that he deliberately attempted to detach himself from the situation, in order to avoid as much hurt as possible. This is a valid notion, considering he has known about Brook's imminent demise for quite a while and may not have been as close to him as say, a real grandfather. However, it does go against the grain of what I feel is the "essence" behind Dawsons character, and that has always been an honest, no-strings-attached expression of his feelings... especially to the people he loves. In many instances, he actually appeared to be rather aloof and detached from the events he was overseeing. As Dawson conversed with Grams, I did pick up on one thing. Perhaps Dawson was taking his cues from this woman, on how to behave, how to act? While tender, and caring, Grams didn't exude a large amount of angst over Brook's Demise, in fact, she appeared quite accepting of losing the man she loves, and so Dawson, experiencing death for the first time, may have looked to her
for inspiration. I would hope that eventually, Dawson comes to the realisation that people express a little more grief over death, and that this is an exceptional circumstance, where Grams already had accepted and acknowledged the fate of her beloved - and that she is experienced in tremendous loss. I was surprised that Dawson remained calm when he was informed he had power of attorney over deciding whether Brooks remained on life support or not. Certainly, even at my age (and I'm only a few years older than Dawson) I would be distraut at the metaphorical "pulling of the trigger". His parents expressed far more outrage than Dawson did, and it only served to reinforce my notion that Dawson was going through the motions as if he wanted to "try out" what experiencing real death was like. This was further highlighted
when he informed Grams that he hadn't lost any close family, had no real experience with death and so, being the analyser and deconstructor he is, Dawson had decided to undertake the "role" he needed to play. A completely fair reaction, we all deal with loss of life in different ways, and if this is the way Dawson copes, let him be. I would hope in the following weeks, he expressed his hurt more, perhaps even with Joey.
Another example of Dawson trying to "fit in" with the adult ideal of how to behave, is exemplified when he considered the idea of religion helping him, like it helped Grams. One of the more poignant scene of this episode occured when Brook's old friend dropped in for a final visit. At that particular moment, I did feel
some genuine emotion for the character of Brooks, who wasn't as strong as Dawson was and lived his life bitter and angry, never letting anyone close to his heart again. The idea that Brooks couldn't even express his sorrow at losing his first love to anyone, that is really sorrowful... but in the end, I'm glad Brooks had someone to put faith in, I'm glad that in the end, he found some happiness with his life. Of course, the parallel between Dawson and Brook's life was continued as Brook's friend discussed Brook's first love. I have very little idea as to what that meant, except maybe it implied that Dawson's fate, since he never once shut his heart, will somehow alter and he will end up with Joey. But perhaps, perhaps I read too much into this In my opinion, Dawson made a good choice in turning off life-support. It's not a matter of the "correct" choice, there is no single, non-argueable answer to such a monumental action, but it did seem like he made a sound decision, as Brooks had lived a long life, and at that stage, he had found a
certain degree of happiness. Let him carry that through to wherever he goes. The scene where Dawson, his girlfriend, family and Grams, celebrated Brook's life was sincere, and well done. I enjoyed the notion of having your life's passion used as a metaphor for the passing of the baton.
Well, to the ski trip, and in particular, Jen and Jack. These two wonderful characters have often been neglected on this show, due to an overall emphasis on the love triangle of recent days. Thus, I was delighted that finally, we saw adequate screen time given to this most unusual of friendships. Alas, the actual content of the screen time, was rather dissapointing. Jen and Jack have a unique friendship, which has certainly endured a lot of hardships, has experienced a lot of heartbreaks (individually of course) and as been reinforced recently to become one of the few innocent, fun and sincere elements of this show. Thus, the idea of that friendship being destroyed due to a contrived situation saddens me immensely. As they wake up the next day, it may never be the same as it once was.
Jen attempting to get Jack to feel interested in Tobey was quite amusing, and is typical of many friendships. But, I do see where Jack was coming from, just because Tobey is gay, it doesn't mean he has to be interested in him romantically. But there does seem to be a side of Jack that is scared of taking his life to the next level, by finding a suitable partner. I can understand that, he is still very young, and very new to all the confused feelings that are derived from the way society looks at you. Which is why I'm glad Jen is there to prod at him... he may not even have met Tobey if it weren't for her!
I've often thought that exploring gay themes on this show through Jack has been underdeveloped. He really hasn't progressed much from where he was two years ago, from just coming to grips with his sexuality. Or perhaps not. Looking back, it could be said that his storyline has been one of the better
developed on Dawsons Creek, as he slowly dipped his toes into proverbial waters. Feeling anxiety at meeting another gay man, being burnt by a romantic interest, struggling to have your father, your family accept you… I realise that a lot of people go through that, despite my lack of knowledge on the matter. A slow build up to what may be a monumental event has been happening for years. Which is why I can't fathom why the writers would choose to explore confused feelings between Jack and Jen, perhaps undoing a lot of the hard work.
Well, it could be said that confusion is a part of growing up, and even more so growing up gay? It's plainly obvious that Jen is attracted to Jack, this was indicated back in "Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang". I think that Jack realises this too... and a small part of him, the scared boy, wishes he wasn't gay, wishes that he could be in love with Jen, because, well, she's perfect! Maybe then, he wouldn't have to face his fear of climbing the next step with his sexuality. Maybe then, he wouldn't feel so alone - your friends can only do so much for you. The alcohol just brought these feelings upto the surface, from personal experience, while it can exaggerate, drinking brings out more honest emotion than at any other time <g> However, I'm glad Jen saw through the ploy (after a face sucking session of course heh). Stopping it was the best thing she could have done, because despite whatever damage has been done to the friendship willingly by both of
them, sleeping with one another would pretty much shatter it. Another way to look at it is to perhaps answer the strange, strange fans out there that somehow want a Jack/Jen hookup! By having them explore that aspect a little, and deciding it wasn't going to work. The safest, and least damaging way to do it? Maybe. I also don't believe Jack is bi-sexual, as was indeed indicated in an earlier season 2 episode.
I was dissapointed that there was such little supervision on this ski trip, especially by the teacher who saw Jen throwing away used alcohol containers. That is a blatant violation of the responsibilities of a teacher, who obviously realised that at least one of his students has been consuming alcohol. Brushing it off is inexcusable. How do I justify it? It's Dawsons Creek Next week shall be interesting, as we see the reprecussions and the fallout from the "fling". Let's hope Jack and Jen's bond is strong enough to get
through this trying time.
Right, onto what earned this episode the highest ratings in years (btw, congratulations DC on that 5.2 on the overnights!), the idea of sex between Pacey and Joey, or in particular the idea of Joey losing her virginity. All that bloody promotion. Now, for many reasons I'm opposed to the idea of either Dawson or Joey losing their virginities on this show. Since Joey is the particular focus of this episode dealing with sex, I'll look only at her character. Well Joey, for a long time, has never considered herself to be attractive. It was further compounded by her extremely strong feelings for Dawson, who in return failed to notice how she had turned into a beautiful young woman. Her self-perception has been a major cause behind her insecurities - that she isn't good enough to be loved by a boy, that she isn't worthy of being considered desirable etc etc...One of my all-time favourite scenes in Dawsons Creek, was when Joey started to realise how extraordinarily beautiful she is during "Beauty Contest. That final montage, where she pulled her hair up, looked at the mirror and smiled - heartwarming, as the butterfly was indeed spreading her wings. Her insecurities however, still remained a significant part of her psyche. We saw so many examples of this. In season 2, asking Dawson whether she was sexual in light of her questioning Jack's sexuality, i.e. whether he went after her because she was "safe"... In season 3 offering Dawson sex because that's what she thought he wanted, not to mention disbelief as to why both Dawson and Pacey would want her so much in the triangle.
Then we have the real-life example of how sex can sometimes go wrong - her sister, Bessie and indeed the child that arrived at a very bad time. Unable to enjoy life to the max while young, because of concerns over the little one. Something Joey is no doubt weary of - all her life she has wanted to leave Capeside for bigger and better things, and the thought of pregnancy ruining that... unthinkable actually. All this has left her very scared of sex. It's not that she has any moral objections to it, nor does she question whether she is in love at present. It's more of a compoundation of her insecurities. Added to those fears is that she won't live upto Pacey's expectations, after all, he is fairly experienced at the act, well, more than she is anyway.
You know, for a long time, I was vehemently opposed to Joey having sex. I believed that it would destroy the innocence that I love about her character, the pedestal I've put her on. Well, certain wonderful posters
here managed to convince me that innocence does not neccesarily relate to whether one is a virgin or not. It is mostly the outlook you have on life - how you percieve the world, how you percieve people. Faith in humanity if you will.
Still, I disagreed with Joey ever consumating her love with anybody. Because of one fundamental reason that I believe strongly - the sexual tension between the characters. What was the most mesmerising between Dawson, Pacey, and Joey is the "uknown", the "mysterious" - what lies beneath the surface,
and that is sex. It leads to so many sparks, and I'm dissapointed that the writers chose to throw away such a great tool for drama, for tension. Of course, exploring teenage sexuality is a fundamental part of growing up, and a lot of drama as well as a lot of tension can be created by showing both the positives and negatives of having sex. I don't believe that it's worth losing the "spark", but I'll cough it up and deal. Why? Because I love this show
It was clear to me that Joey was extremely nervous about this trip, for all that it entails and implies. Basically, what some bloke shouted out as they embarked on the trip, "getting laid". I do think that somewhere deep inside, Pacey wanted to have sex with Joey rather badly on this trip, and Joey
realised that... hence her apprehension.
As Joey and Pacey settled into their bedroom, the coversation that they had was quite interesting... basically, do the Joey Potter things, avoid the problem, ignore it and hope it goes away. The situation was furher compounded during the scene in which Joey found out that Pacey was actually carrying condoms in his wallet. I admit, I did cringe, it was quite embarrassing, and I can easily understand how Joey would think Pacey was putting pressure on her to have sex. And to tell you the truth, I sort of agreed with her. It's not an obvious pressure, but Pacey realised that this weekend was a perfect oppourtunity, and thus carried a "safety net" around. A lot of guys do carry condoms around, especially on such trips, despite not
even having a girlfriend. You know, just in case, better safe than sorry, all that jazz.
Joey's talk with Jack was quite honest and I appreciate their friendship greatly. The words Jack said rang very true... having sex isn't just one big decision you make, it's a compounding of many elements, the person, the place, the mood... some elements may be lacking, but in the end, all that matters is that you don't regret it.
Now, once returned to the relative comfort of their bode after the uncomfortable events of past, Pacey and Joey's conversation about sex was fascinating. Now, I can understand some peoples adverse reaction to Pacey telling Joey that Dawson is what she's scared of. It does seem as though in every major event in their relationship, Dawson is introduced into the equation, usually by Pacey... but perhaps this time, he had a right to?
We've all noticed that over the last few episodes, Joey has been giving various signals out regarding her feelings towards Dawson. Perhaps jealousy over Gretchen, perhaps more. Suffice to say, it's clear that, as was stated, a piece of her heart will always belong to him. It always will - you don't ever get over your first love. Every relationship afterwards, in some way, is compared to the innocence, and magic of the first time you looked into a persons eyes and saw yourself. Thus, what Pacey said, about Joey being scared of her first time not being with Dawson, rings very true. In fact, as she conversed with Dawson over the
phone, it was all but confirmed... she needed to make sure she was doing the right thing, by going through it with Pacey, and not Dawson as she had envisaged for so long. Dawsons words, about waiting for his friend to say goodbye... it made perfect sense, of letting go of that idea that it should be with Dawson.
For all his faults, for all his mistakes, there's one thing that you cannot deny... Pacey is a good person, and indeed, far more of a man than many of the teenage boys at this ski trip. Now, I was sympathetic with Anna last episode, for being considered trash by Drue. But, I didn't have much sympathy for her this time around as what she was asking, was to have Pacey betray the person he loves, all for sex. And as Pacey stated why he wouldn't do that, it brought a smile to my face, and I was actually thankful that Joey would lose her virginity to him... someone she loves, and loved her back. This is very much in line with who I believe Joey is, her beliefs, her views. Btw, Joey is a very lucky person you know, she's had three real
boyfriends, Dawson, Jack and Pacey, who are all exceptional guys with great
character.
The scene where the act took place, despite all my half-hearted and wavering objections... was actually rather sweet. I don't doubt that she was ready, she would not have gone through with it if she wasn't. As she recounted every small, insignificant detail of why she loved Pacey and why she was willing to have sex with him, I felt a little sad that little Joey Potter has all grown up.
Overall, a decent enough episode, again, with many elements not executed as
well as I'd like. A 7.5 out of 10.
~La Angel replies: That was thoughtfully written and deeply involved. I am still dreading the next episode because of the way I know Dawson will probably react to it. I'm very much a Dawson/Joey fan, but I do understand the Joey Pacey relationship even though some aspects of it don't quite agree with me. Now
as to them loving each other, I have no doubts about that. I'm just questioning the move of having sex with each other much like you were. They used up a very powerful story line halfway through the season which diminishes the power that they could have built up behind it. Pacey certainly had the right to feel that Dawson was indeed holding Joey back. And I'm sure that in her mind it actually was as we find out since she had to get that final "good-bye" from Dawson. As to how she interpreted that good bye is a little questionable. Dawson I'm sure on some subconcious level knew that he was "releasing" her but in his mind at that time was Brooks and how to deal with him. In the back of my mind, somehow in some way, I'm still pulling for Dawson and Joey and the rumored break up of Joey and Pacey. I had hoped that they would keep Joey a virgin for a while longer. Of course, sometimes it's not neccessary for one to be a virgin in order to have them love you the best they can. And since it seems that they do do the deed, this will definitely be a factor in upcoming episodes and possibly in the upcoming relationship that Dawson and Joey may have. There are only two factors which still lead me to believe that Dawson and Joey will inevitably end up with each other once again. The dumbest, and possibly the most inaccurate of these is the opening credits. Every time they change the opening credits there is always a small little scene of
Dawson and Joey when they were in the relationship together. The current one of course STARTS with the scene of Dawson and Joey about ready to kiss and then proceeds to other scenes. I take this as a small clue to the fact that Joey and Dawson will always be connected and will always lead back to
each other. The other one in my opinion cannot be argued or denied. It is the most poignant piece that shows how Dawson has grown in the years from an eternal optimist to a thoughtful optimist. The speech that Dawson gave at his parent's wedding and his methods of handling Joey at the end of Season 3
is a true reminder to me that they will one day down the road, be together again. There is no doubt in my mind, that the idea of love ends and begins again definitely applies to Dawson and Joey in the truest form. But perhaps, it's just my eternal optimism showing through. I didn't think that Dawson pulled the plug on Brooks since it was never actually shown. I'd like to believe that the arrival of Brooks friend was
the final step Brooks needed to pass on at ease and that somehow he died himself. I like thinking that because it is in some way more idealistic than the medical treatment being stopped. I also loved the part where they all sat around and watched his film, but I had also hoped that they would show us some of it also. I also agree that however appealing the lack of supervision is to me on a trip, it was completely impossible for that degree of unsupervision to have occured. The levels of ignorance expressed by the chaperones were hideous and even though I didn't want Jen to get in trouble, I thought they could have incorporated some humor into the episode by having her make up some ludicrous plot and story about the alcohol. I definitely agree with Mal in that the idea of little Joey Potter growing up is very sad. I can only hope that she will grow some more and not accept the ideas that people tend to pop into her mind.
Makara references part of Joey belonging to Dawson: That damn near made me cry because it instantly made me remember the first time that happened to me. Great review...keep up the good work.
SLYN11 replies: Great review as always Mal! I agree that the episode was uneven - and that Mr. Brooks' death was met with very little emotion from Dawson. Although, I feel that he has never been that openly emotional anyway.
I think the whole speech by Brooks' best friend was to show that there is always a special place in your heart for your first love. Sometimes you marry that first love, sometimes you find another....but there is something special about that first person.
I love Jack and Jen...and I think that this scene was necessary in the evolution of their friendship. There is always some part of you that wonders if there could be "more" to a great platonic friendship. Jack and Jen clearly love each other and support each other - better than Dawson and Joey IMHO.
It is clear that they both feel that each embodies the characteristics they most want in a mate. This may be the most realistic storyline of the show. The writers have set up a scenario that is present in many peoples' lives - how do you find a romantic love that is as fulfilling and wonderful as your platonic one. And of course, both Jack and Jen are lonely and suffer from abandonment issues, so naturally they would contemplate hooking up.
I think Jack is just confused and scared to completely explore his homosexuality. That is a totally normal response for someone at his stage of life.
I think that is was a logic step for P and J. TPTB have created this elaborate and sweet love story for the characters, it almost seems natural that this would happen. After all was said and done, the whole scene was very sweet. I liked how Joey recounted to Pacey all the reasons why she loved him and wanted to be with him. And of course my favorite part was when she said "10 my love". I can't wait to see the aftermath this week.
~La Angel remembers Dawson crying even if he didn’t during Brooks’ death: very not wrong. and i think he also cried during a few episodes dealing with his parents with Joey. I remember the full moon one... anyways, i thought that dawson crying was a very powerful scene last season.
Makara laughs: I think he cried but he isn't very good at it. When Dawson cries I think WUSSY!!!
When Pacey cries, it rips my guts out clear down to my toes. He just has that irresistible thing about him.
I just want to hug him, and make him feel better.
Mal P responds to La Angel: I always try and and assume the best about each character, so I'd like to think that Dawson would react as a friend. Meaning that during the coversation with Joey, he has noticed that she had been extremely pre-occupied, that something had been bothering her. He had heard rumours of the sexual act, and thus, acting as a friend, he wanted to discuss it with her. But then Joey would of course misinterpret his intentions, and assume he's being jealous (maybe because she wants him to?). At least, I hope that's the way it'll turn out ;-) I wouldn't like to believe that the writers would undo a seasons worth of building up Dawsons character (after he had been largely destroyed last season) and then all of a sudden have him regress, hurting not just himself but Gretchen, and perhaps Joey.
Pacey still hadn't got a straight answer from Joey about *why* she was so scared... about whether it was Dawson, or what not. I hope that is exploredmore.
I too would like Dawson and Joey to eventually reunite. I don't believe that anything could be more wonderful or sweeter. However, I will feel sad at Pacey and Joey's demise... when any love as strong as what they have dissolves, it is always a sad day :-( That is why I hope that if they break-up, it will be because they just fell out of love with each other, and does not hurt anyone as much as the triangle did last year.
Just because you're no longer a virgin, doesn't mean you can't love somebody with the same innocence, with the same passion.
Alas the credits have not been changed since half way through season 3, and that was when it was still the Dawson and Joey show. Apparently they're changing it soon, I hope so, the content of the credits do not reflect the show in it's current state.
Please, keep being optimistic... it's wonderful to see that you can maintain that without disparaging other elements of the show, such as Pacey and Joey. I'll be dreaming right beside you ;-)
Yes, she (Joey) tends to tell people what they want to hear these days... I suspect she will to Dawson in the next episode as well ;-( Oh well, she's come a long way, she's slowly getting over her vast, vast insecurities and actually seems genuinely happy at times. Let's hope her life comes together, and by
that, I mean for Dawson to become a greater part of it than one or two scenes together every five episodes.
Mal P answers SLYN11: I do believe, as others have pointed out, that he cried in the season 3
finale as Joey decided to leave him. I would hope that next week, he expresses some of what he is feeling to Joey... and hopefully, if she can overcome her own problems, she can make him feel a little better.
As I said, you never really do forget that first person who gave you the butterflies huh? Ahh, to
be young again... oh wait, I'm only 20 ;-)
True enough, and I do understand the willingness of TPTB to show the complications of a gay/straight friendship... but I thought ultimately, it was more of an attempt to shut the door on what certain brainless members of the audience want, a Jen/Jack romance. I am glad they shut that down, but the way they did it was a little... uneasy.
It does seem natural, and apart from my issue with sexual tension, I have no problem with Pacey and Joey consumating their wonderful romance. I just think that the way it was done was a little... rushed, as if they wanted to get it out of the way for sweeps.
It was sweet... I did find the "my love" line to be a *little* corny, but apart from that, Joey clearly wanted to have sex with Pacey, at least, in that moment. She's a smart girl, if she didn't want to have sex, she
wouldn't have done it. Now whether she regrets it is another matter. I would hope she doesn't...
Neither can I ;-) I know, contrived and all, but seeing what Joey says to Dawson will be amazing.
~La Angel responds to Makara: i think that ur opinion is partly based on the fact that Pacey hardly shows
his true feeling through his features at all, therefore, when he does express his feelings it's always a bit more melodramtaic. Dawson is more open with what he is feeling in the first place. at the same time though, i don't think any guys that do cry are wussies. As all women know, it's very hard for guys to cry in the first place so when they do, it 's a sure sign that something inside them hurts and something is bothering them.
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