Nightlines

Coupling Episode Review

In which there isn't in fact a grey area between a jelly baby and a fetus.

What Happened

Steve continues to be nervous about the impending birth. Tired of hearing about about the orange axe-weilding fetus, Susan insists that he get a grip.

At his shop, Oliver has an awkward encounter with his ex-girlfriend Tamsin, who leavers her purse behind as she goes. Oliver picks up when Susan calls Tamsin. They met at a birthing class, she explains to Oliver, who immediately starts doing the math.

Patrick and Sally's discussion of why he makes car noises and calls her "Officer" during sex is interrupted by a call from Susan. Steve thinks that she's turning into an emotional tent, Susan wails. Sally tells Susan that she's always thought Steve was useless - surprising a listening Steve.

The conversation takes another turn when Sally announces that she absolutely intends to have a baby with Patrick. Comes as something of a surprise to Patrick - who's eavesdropping on the other line.

I'm just trying to reassure Susan that she's not turning into a perfumed zepplin, Sally tells him. Pregnant women are sexy and wonderful. Patrick agrees wholeheartedly. Turns out, he's got a thing for pregnant women.

Sally finally tells Susan to deal with her issues. Jane - having picked up Patrick's other line - concurs. Jane's still got the front door key to every man she's ever slept with, Steve observes at exactly the wrong time.

When Susan gets a call back from Oliver, she sees an opportunity. Telling the others to go back to bed, Susan puts Jane and Oliver on the line with each other and takes her own advice.

What Did We Learn

• Hormones. It's an unfair advantage.
• Nobody's saying Steve has testicles.
• Babies can't come round to tea.
• Mummy tummies are a tragedy in wobble form.
• It's like there's somebody in there just now. You have to wait your turn.
• Steve made the bed. He's got to lie to it.
• Deal with your jelly midriff issues.

What Did I Think?

You wanna know what's scary? I recognize the comic book issue Oliver's dream girl is holding in her hand during the dream sequence. It's from a series called "Spellbound," and it was actually pretty good.

Anyways, the show once again plays with the sitcom structure to good effect. Oliver's little play goes on for a touch too long, and it is oh-so-convenient that Susan just happens to know Tamsin, but it works. Eventually.