TVSquad

(S03E05) "Get mama's thong off your head, You had pink eye last week." - Joy Turner

You know, it's funny. When most people go to prison it tends to inhibit or limit their options. However in Earl's case, it seems a whole new world has opened up. I mean Earl the show, not the guy.

By sending Earl to prison, the writers have found an entirely new world for him to play in. They can introduce new characters (Frank, Glen, Sonny) new guest stars (Craig T. Nelson, Michael Rappaport) and it forces them to explore new relationships between the characters. For example, the new dynamic between Randy and Joy is fascinating to watch.

(S02E22) Continuing on his quest to become a real adult, Earl goes and finds himself a job. And of course Randy gets a job at the same retail establishment because, well... he's Randy.

This episode was also the very special "laugh n sniff" episode. If you shelled out a couple of bucks for this week's TV Guide, you could pick up a card with 6 different odors. Rub the numbered odor when a number pops up during the episode, and you'll get a bit of extra-sensory Earl. Turns out all the odors smelled a bit like paper and a bit like something else, be it junk food or cologne.

(S02E10) I'm always a little wary when a half-hour sitcom decides to extend itself to a "special" one-hour edition. In many instances, the producers and writers want to introduce a new storyline or bring an existing one to some sort of conclusion. In many instances, these extended episodes turn out to be very disappointing. Not this time.

(S02E09) I was very surprised by the storyline of Randy going to profess his love for Catalina. I have been under the impression that Earl and Catalina would eventually hook up, so I'm not quite sure how this is going to turn out. It was good to see the more "human" side of Randy come out. He is definitely in love with Catalina, but I still think that he and his brother will be competing to win her heart. I'm also quite sure that people all over America will be laying down bubble wrap in honor of their objects of affection.

Of course, it woujld help if Catalina would remain in the country and not be deported for entering the country illegally. Her situation is now another major plot, besides Joy's pending trial, that will keep the show moving in other directions besides Earl crossing things off his list. I don't think devoting an entire episode to Earl making 274 bologna sandwiches for Kenny to make up for stealing his lunch in school years ago would have been very interesting.