TV: the Big Bang Theory (season 5, ep. 1 and 2)

Yes, yes, yes. Thursday nights with the return of the Big Bang Theory - not one but two new episodes this week. Our household was very happy with this. My wife, my teenaged son and I all enjoy this show a lot.

Let's comment on them, shall we? (***spoilers*** ahead)


Season 5, episode 1: "the Skank Reflex Analysis" - the show does not skip a beat, continuing right from the point that season 4 ended. The guys discover that Penny and Raj have spent the night together in Leonard's bed. Let the awkwardness commence! Oh, and Sheldon recruits the guys to play in an inter-department paintball tournament.

I really liked how the elements played out here to a conclusion, I think, that should satisfy most viewers all the way around. Yes, things like this happen when friends get drunk and are lonely. The writers worked in some great stuff too. For example, Leonard's Skype discussion with his mother (played by the brilliant Christine Baranski - she needs to come back and do another full episode, and to interact with Amy). Also, loved Penny's commercial.

Season 5, episode 2: "the Infestation Hypothesis" - Amy is caught in the middle of a fight between Sheldon and Penny over a chair. And Leonard tries to spice up his long-distance relationship with Priya.

I really enjoy the increased involvement of Amy (Mayim Bialik) this season. I think it gives a good outlet for Penny to have a sounding board. Loved the scenes with Sheldon continually at Penny's door and her responses every time she opened it (especially the last one). Appreciated too that the writers are keeping Priya in the mix, even remotely. Hopefully she'll be back later in the season as she adds a nice aspect for both Raj and Leonard. Creepiest moment: Sheldon's daydream (love the special effects used).