by Samantha Rullo
The short sixth season of “30 Rock” came to an end this week, in a strange scheduling decision by NBC to pair it with the season finale of “Community.” Still, it was an overall enjoyable finale that tied up most of the season’s loose ends, while saving enough stories for next season.
One of the episode’s biggest setbacks happened immediately, with a completely random opening in which we see that a stranger sneaks into Liz’s bedroom to kiss her good morning everyday. It was an unnecessary scene, not at all funny enough to warrant it the opening of the season finale.
Things did get better from there though, as Liz and Criss immediately continued their discussion about having a baby, or their less intimidating code for it–“getting a plant.” It was a relief to see that even after Liz’s doubts last week, and with Criss’s determination, it was something they still wanted, because Liz is a character that has really earned her happy ending. Though there wasn’t much more progress made, besides a hilarious montage of Liz imagining life with her plant-child, it seems that next season will hold a lot for the couple.
Unfortunately, there may be a lot in store for Hazel next season too. She is one of the worst characters to ever join “30 Rock” and has long overstayed her welcome. Just like usual, this week’s Hazel storyline was completely new and unwarranted, and not funny. Her random ending scene of furiously kissing Kenneth was the worst of it, as it implies that she’ll be back. The only good thing Hazel brought was an attack from Jenna, with Jane Krakowski excellent in portraying Jenna as her usual mean-self, but this time with compassion motivating her. Jenna is always better with some depth to her, and this week she had much more to work with.
The main event in the finale was Jack and Avery’s vow renewal, which Liz was asked to officiate. The most memorable part, possibly of the entire episode, was of course seeing Kim Jong Il working as a waiter there, ready to object to their renewal. Though it was surprising when no one actually objected, their divorce was expected, and has been hinted at since her return last week. Still, they were a good couple, and there isn’t much time to find Jack a new serious romantic interest. But there was one huge advantage that came from their divorce, as now “30 Rock” doesn’t have to worry about mentioning Jack’s daughter or ever showing him with her—even though that apparently hadn’t been much of a concern to begin with.
The sixth season finale may not have delivered as many laughs as would be expected, but the recent live show and “Queen of Jordan” episodes had more than most shows do in an entire season, so it was worth it to see many plotlines left in a satisfying place. Next season, with only 13 episodes again, will be the last for “30 Rock,” and hopefully they will get rid of Hazel in time to end the show on the great note it deserves.
Samantha Rullo is a staff writer. Email her at entertainment@nyunews.com.
