Post the finale, many of you wonderful commenters (SERIOUSLY, I love you all so much, it makes me so happy when I get my email alerts to see everyone firing off ideas days later) started brainstorming ideas about what you do and don’t want to see moving forward. Well, let me join you.
Top 5 Things We Want to See in Offspring Season 4
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| Happy Patrick, it's not a crime. |
Andrew – I LOVED Andrew, I loved how he was introduced slowly, how he sort of just became part of the show and then before you know it, I was totally invested in Andrew, wanting him and Tim to get together. I want him back, I want to explore more of the brother relationship. I think the sibling chemistry that Eddie Perfect and Dan Spielman have is amazing and translates just as well as Asher Keddie and Kat Stewart. I loved that we got to see a gay relationship on screen that was as complicated and normal as their straight counterparts – let’s see more of this.
The Season Finale Doc Dad – I never ‘felt’ Doc Dad. Sure he was the bumbling, buffoonery, missed life’s opportunity man, and he got caught in Mama Proudman’s web of selfishness but I just didn’t enjoy it UNTIL a very specific moment. His scene on the roof of the car park with Patrick was Gary McDonald beauty. He was tender, sweet yet tinged with his own angst at a life of regret. He influenced Patrick without scaring him and it was one of my very favourite scenes in the finale for both actors.
Adult Jimmy – Quite possibly one of the greatest moves of Season Three was to grow Jimmy. It took a while, and I was about ready to lose my shit during the beads tugging episode (yes, that really happened). In the back stretch however, Jimmy became strong, Jimmy became dependable and without losing his childlike joy. As a counterbalance to Zara, it works but LORD help me, I don’t want any more stupid wacky let’s break into my not girlfriend’s house shenanigans.
Martin Clegg – It is a truth universal acknowledge that Offspring has a deep roster of supporting actors who in their limited scenes bring humour, drama and more each week without getting the adoration. By far, this season best performer in the supporting team has to be Lachy Hulme and his fantastic consistent Martin Clegg. I HATE the hurried proposal to Cherie (despite the location!) and I hate how Cherie gets to run that relationship whenever she isn’t determined to complicate the Proudman’s with her sex life. I love the idea of a man so logic driven, so bizarrely his own that conventional wisdom wouldn’t mature, let’s see more of that please!.
Top 5 Things We Don’t Want to See in Season Four Offspring
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| Shirtlessness for the home ONLY. Cancel the Best Western Motel membership. |
Ash Cloud Plots – Alright I understand that Kat Stewart is allowed to have a baby, so are other actors but really, if they come to you producers during the hiatus and announce a pregnancy, figure out something less stupid that an ash cloud, that interrupts a plot so dramatically that we barely made it out of the season alive.
Fitzroy Jesus People – Sorry Fitzroy Jesus, but you were never a viable option. You were always a decoy and it was very obvious. At least with the Chris Havel/Patrick choice, there was actual reasoning to both sides. As part of Patrick and Nina, we want no new decoy ‘temptations’ – don’t even think about casting a hot new Doctor at Patrick’s new hospital so Nina can freak out about what he’s doing at work. JUST DON’T
No Sexy Times – Listen, I’m not ashamed to admit, I love myself a sexy time on screen. You’ve obviously given Matt Le Nevez the broody leading man role brief and that’s great. Just remember to bring sexy times. Some of the best scenes this season involved Nina and Patrick actually shutting the hell up and getting down to business! Maybe they could fire up RealEstate.com.au again.
Feisty Orange Issues – This was a badly handled, badly solved plot. I never understood the apparent ‘connection’ Feisty and Mick had beyond the music. One ‘this is my opinion’ fight does not make a marriage ending love fest in my book. I hated the resolution in the wine aisle of Feisty Issues almost as much as Nina/Patrick’s resolution and this whole type of thing should be avoided at all costs. ALL COSTS
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| Use my balcony! Never forget! |
1. More green sheets!
2. Scarf hilarity!
3. Nurse Kym snarky awesomeness
4. The Chris Havel Memorial Balcony
5. iPhone of Doom
Do you agree? Do you disagree? Hit the comments people!
I was experiencing Offspring withdrawal tonight and was thrilled to come across your blog! Your recaps of the last couple of episodes made me laugh at least as much as when I was watching the actual episodes. Keep up the great work! :-)
ReplyDeleteMy main hope is that Fitzroy Jesus doesn't come into paternity calculations as has been suggested in the comments of one of your recaps. I think I would stop watching if that happened.
Did anyone else find Offspring time confusing this season? I can't figure it out. The last three episodes seemed to cover three consecutive days (Patrick's last day at work, the day before then the day of Nina's birthday). I'm guessing the vase-breaking afternoon was no more than 2 weeks before Patrick's last day. How could Nina suspect she's pregnant by then? I don't get it!!! Okay, okay, poetic licence right? :D
Thank you for your posts on Offspring I love them and I love this post Offspring post too!
ReplyDeleteI agree with the above except maybe your views on doc dad. He almost had me from hello...
His Nina-like bumbliness in the beginning was cringe worthy awkward. I loved him hiding in mama proudmans bushes, loved him trying to persuade mama proudman to try him again for more sexy times and loved him in the finale for Ninas birthday presents and of course the carpark roof scene with Patrick was a winner as you pointed out.
As for what I;d like to see in season 4...
I'm looking forward to seeing Zara cope with living in the proudman house.
Definately more Nina & Patrick sexy times in the green sheets.
Perhaps a little more insight into Patricks family?
Definately more Nina & Patrick sexy times in the green sheets.
I think a strictly PLATONIC opposite sex friendship for either Nina or Patrick could bring some interesting storylines.
Definately more Nina & Patrick sexy times in the green sheets.
Ninas maternity wear. full stop.
Maybe an engagement - the wedding will no doubt be in season 5!
Anything with Patrick sans shirt will do me though!
Felicity, thanks for your summation of all our previous points from your last blog entry. I also will be out if Fitzroy Jesus comes back in the picture related to paternity (and this may kill me given its the only australian tv show other than love my way I've watched three complete series of) but I think its unlikely given how saintly he was portrayed. I found a lot of series 3 confusing and I found the time frames hard to figure. but they took a lot of poetic licence as emerrr put it because lets face it in the real world Nina would have been down the chemist for a pregnancy test kit but that would ahve spoiled the finale..and meant no hilarious scenes with Clegg
ReplyDeleteThe main thing I want is some way for Patrick and Nina to talk more and allow each other to be vulnerable with each other. No more tortured glances that go on episode after episode...it was extremely frustrating to say the least in series 3.
A big thank you to Felicity again, because I too love your recaps (and captions!) and I agree with pretty much everything on this "wish list" and the comments above.
ReplyDeleteI know I keep going on and on about it, but I'd love to see Patrick share the Gus scrapbook his ex-wife gave him, with Nina.
And I'd like to see more discussion (not a relapse!) about his history with drugs, plenty of potential drama and angst in just talking about it. And hey, that would count as communicating with each other, being vulnerable and intimate too, which they are also lousy at.
If Nina and Patrick can improve their comnmunication skills between the two of them, that would be plenty of personal growth!
This might not be popular, but IF Nina lost the baby, if the spotting she had in the shower turned out to be an early miscarriage, despite the ultrasound looking ok (it is possible), if they can comfort each other and recover together, and then go away on a "recovery" holiday using the horse-riding voucher Patrick gave Nina for her birthday, well then they can have a lot of fun "trying again" - more sexy times for us!
I also want more Clegg (Lachy is such a great actor!), more Nurse Kim (loved her birthing class, and "fine AND dandy" comment to Nina), more Kate Reid (and more background to Patrick's family), definitely bring back Andrew (with or without Tim).
I think if I add anything else I'll be repeating myself again.
But again, BIG thank you!
Agree with most of it!
ReplyDeleteIt’s not a sin to be uncommunicative and want some space (heck I would want some space after a week of Proudmans!) as long as you care for your partner. Too much of S3 felt like Patrick behaving badly when it should be more about how do you manage that kind of thing with a partner who is much more open and communicative all the time. I think that bowling alley scene Patrick mentions he has changed – and that’s it really, that you analyse and change, become more accommodative when you are with someone different. I don’t think you can have Patrick being perfect either. The drama is because of the fact that its not an easy relationship.
Green sheets are good. But let’s face it, some URST heightens the anticipation for the next green sheet session!
Also agree re Andrew, Dan Spielman is really good. I think Eddie Perfect needs to have an actor around – Feisty and his scenes were very flat. And with Clare also singing one of the joys of Offspring, the weekly queries on “who sang that song” of S2 got a bit buried. So more not that well known singers perhaps.
I thought they wasted Doc Dad for a few easy laughs but like you by that final Patrick scene I was completely on board.
Scarily I know a few Cleggs – that guy is spot on!
Hopefully Billie is on board for the season, Kat Stewart seems a busy woman.
And as Emmerr says they need to get their continuity sorted (like that couple who came back to have a child, had a year passed?) though we all go along for the ride anyway.
I very much doubt that Fitzroy Jesus being the father is in store. Offspring is not that kind of a show (ahem Winners and Losers looking at you). I like Kick Gurry but he was shoehorned into the plot.
But most of all I hope the writers read all this, pay attention to the inconsistencies and then just go and do their own thing!
Anyway excellent work Felicity and all the best with the novel!
I agree with pretty much everything you said Felicity.
ReplyDeleteI am officially in Offspring withdrawl!
My wish list includes the following with the specific characters:
1. More of Gary McDonald being awkward but soft and sweet. I too loved the scene with Patrick and Dr Noonan. It was everything it needed to be. More of those kind of honest well crafted scenes would be great.
2. More Clegg being umm Clegg like. I want him in a bunny suit again!
3. Development of Zara's background. I want to find out more about her history. I also look forward to her sorting out the Proudman neurotic chaos!
4. Jimmy enjoying some professional success or being a uber stay at home dad.
5. Kate providing more frank advice to Patrick. Kate made me laugh on more than one occasion. I want more of her character.
I would also be interested in seeing how she goes with trust issues after coming from an abusive relationship.
6. Nina showing a hilarious and honest take on pregnancy. I think some of the imagery scenes have the potential to be hilarious.
7. Some healthy dynamic between Nina and Patrick. Some adult communication would be amazing. Lets face it, they broke up when the honeymoon period of the relationship was just ending. We haven’t seen them together being normal. I like that the relationship isn’t straight forward, and they aren’t picture perfect – however I want to see more banter, continuation of green sheets and owls.
I whole heartedly want to see Patrick properly open up to Nina. Do you guys remember that ep in season 2 when they are on the bed talking? They both sat there being completely honest with each other about things pretty close to them. Nina admitting that she loved that her ex husband put her on a pedestal and worshiped her, but she never loved him. Patrick admitting that he basically abandoned his wife....That they both suck at intimacy. I want another convo like that, where they explore why they broke up and why they want to be together.
I agree that him sharing the baby book with Nina would be a beautiful scene.
I still love the vase-smash-sexytime scene. Another one of those wouldn’t go astray!
8. Billie being subtle like a sledgehammer in her comments :) I adore both Kat Stewart and Billie. I do want to see Billie happy though. The poor thing has had it pretty tough recently.
9. Mick resolves the attraction issue. I don’t think it is over between Mick and the Orange. It has been presented like it is, however they are going to go on tour... Should be interesting to see how it will unfold..
10. More comic banter between Nina and Patrick. This is some of the funniest material between these two characters. Even just him mimicking her sighing in the hallway telling her not to get worked up = gold!
11. Less insecurity in every relationship on the freaking show.
Topics I want covered
1. I would like to see the struggle for professional women to find that balance between baby and work (and the guilt that is felt by many who try and do both).
2. I want the sexual desires of pregnant women to be addressed.
3. I would be interested to see post natal depression looked at.
4. I would love to see being a foster parent or adoption covered.
Things I don't want included:
ReplyDelete1. Mid-50 yr old adults acting like a bunch of horny teenagers who can't keep it in their pants. Is it possible for the senior Proudman's to have a meaningful relationship?
2. Break ups that don't make sense.
3. Fitzroy Jesus type characters.
Hello fellow obsessesed Offspringers!
ReplyDeleteFirst of all would love to say a big THANK YOU to Felicity..these recaps are amazing and reading your own witty take on the show is almost as good as watching it, well done!
Now on to the serious business... here is what I want in season 4...
1. Nina and Patrick. These two had me obsessed all season..the angst..the longing looks..the tortured love..gah! It had me yelling at the TV a few times, I won't lie! And as much as the AMAZING finale redeemed them to a point (um adorable ultrasound moment anyone?) I still think there are ALOT of things that need to be worked through/discussed.
Like...Why they broke up in the first place, Patrick's issues with losing his son, Patrick's issues with running away to hotel rooms like a scared little boy when things get tough and BOTH of their severe issues with communicating with each other.
I want to see them TALKING to each other, SHARING with each other, being vulnerable and honest. I would LOVE to see Patrick share with Nina the baby book his ex gave him, I think that is important.
I want it to be shown that while these two characters are complicated and that their relationship is NOT perfect, they can still be happy together. That those factors make their relationship more interesting. They are in love, let them be happy, its not a crime!
2.Billie and Mick + Rosanna... This is not over. Not by a long shot. I predict more drama and angst over this entire situation. Physical cheating? Maybe not but there is such a thing as emotional cheating and trust me, its worse than the physical.
3. Jimmy and Zara + Alfie.. It was so awesome to watch Jimmy grow up this season. Can him and Zara make it work? I realy hope so! Alfie must be okay as well..That is a must! Would also love to hear more of Zara's backstory. Meet her family?
4. Doc Dad..He has grown on me immensely. Especially the scene with Patrick on the rooftop? Gave Nina the best birthday present ever without knowing it! I'd love to see more of him.
5. NO QUESTIONS ON PATERNITY OF BUBS!
I have been hearing different theories around, and I hate them. Nina did not sleep with Adam. I thought that was clear? This baby is Patrick's. I have more faith in the writers of this amazing show to not go down that overused soapy road. End of!
6. Pregnant Nina! She is going to be awesomely nuerotic, awesomely hilarous and awesomely fashionable. Its going to be lovely to see her and Patrick going through this journey together, looking forward to some really sweet moments with those two.
Bring on Season 4...I can't wait!
Oh and while the Facebook page is better this season, on the whole the Channel Ten website sucks. Which is a pity given that the show has such dedicated fans.
ReplyDeleteThank God for the blogs and tumblr that recapped and giffed each episode!
Felicity
ReplyDeleteI've loved your recaps all season. I often found myself thinking 'Exactly' or 'I know!' And my favourite bits were the photo captions. Please do it all again next season!
I pretty much agree with everything people have written about their likes and dislikes about season 3. My other little likes were Nina wearing the same clothes when they get back together as when they broke up. I'm sure I'm reading too much into that (just like Nina), but it tickles my romantic funny bone.
I also loved how obviously heartbroken Nina and Patrick were about breaking up, even though I thought the whole premise for breaking up was pretty stupid (more about that later). I really think the writers and actors nailed that heart break. For me, it really brought back memories of the last time I felt my heart breaking that like.
I think the thing I found most frustrating about the season was it didn't reflect the publicity. All the chatter before the season started was about watching these characters grow. But apart from Jimmy and Zara, I don't think they did grow very much. Week after week the characters seemed to do the same things as they did in previous seasons. Nina breaks up with someone and ends up drunk and in a compromising position with someone else (sleeping with Mick in season 1). Nina and Patrick practically have the same conversation about him being a coward (season 2). Mick has a fling with a musical kindred spirit (remember Ivy from season 1). My advice to the publicity department is be careful about how you manage people's expectations! It probably wouldn't have irritated me so much if I knew they were going to rehash old story lines!
As for season 4, I really do hope we've seen the last of the Nina/Patrick on/off story line. It's been done to death. I'd love to see a wedding. We all love a bridezilla (so long as it's not Nina going into labour during the ceremony. Too cliched). It would great to see more of Kate (and I could totally see her with Fitzroy Jesus. He sounds like just what she needs.) Where are Patrick's/Kate's parents, and Zara's parents? And we all need more Martin Clegg in our lives. I'm not sure about he and Cherie. She creeped me out with that whole wanting another baby with Darcy and I'm not sure she'll ever be able to redeem herself with me.
Anyway, those are my thoughts for what they're worth. I'll look forward to more recaps next year.
Interesting theory about Kate and Fitzroy Jesus! I would love to see more of Kate and meet all the missing parents next season too.
DeleteI have to say I don't particularly want to see Nina and Patrick get married. At least not anytime soon. Patrick needs to prove he won't run again first.
What I would love for the first episode next season is to hear Patrick's inner monologue over the top of some of the scenes in which they were breaking up or should have been getting back together. Like when he goes to the pub and she's with Adam, or the sexy vase-smashing afternoon, the bowling night, after the phone call in which she tells him she's pregnant, the conversations they have on her birthday at his house and in the car park.
I'd also love to see Patrick talking to Nina's bump and would love love love to hear him singing to it. Can Matt Le Nevez sing? Hopefully his musical ability lies somewhere between Billie's and Mick's...
completely agree with you Jenny - the premise for the breakup wasn't very well done (and Nina was too accepting of his non-explanation) but the heartbreak felt so real and also took me back to a time where I had similar feelings about someone - that ache that comes from wanting to work it out but not being able to.
DeleteI loved the same clothing for break-up and get together too. i do love Nina's wardrobe and that she repeats her looks so this was a particularly sweet touch.
Obviously there will need to be issues and angst in the relationship but lets hope they can have it whilst working from within the relationship and with dialogue this time.
I think I've had enough of Fitzroy Jesus on Offspring but Kate having a new and functional partner would be great.
As for the senior Proudmans I quite like their dalliances, especially Geraldine, makes them more interesting than packed to the rafters types but I agree with Fee its probably time for a meaningful relationship. I think this would really test the family as they would have to let someone new in to the circle
And its so true - Clegg is spot on!
Hi emmerrr. I didn't necessarily mean Nina and Patrick should get married. Jimmy and Zara? Clegg and Cherie? (Although only if she does some major sucking up in the meantime and I mean major major sucking up. She has a lot of ground to recover.) I just don't want to see Nina having a baby in the middle of it.
DeleteCan you imagine a Clegg wedding!! it would be too funny. I think the days of the characters having spontaneous labours at social events should be totally banned for season 4 and 5.
DeleteI have just rewatched most of series 3 again before I wrote my wants for season 4. I find it really hard to watch episode 5 : the motel time. Nina's heartbreak and both their pain was palpable.
ReplyDeleteLiked Emmerr's idea of a talkover of Patrick explaining what he was thinking during some of those puzzling and difficult times. However I think the writers will reserve the talkovers for Nina. Maybe Patrick will have to explain outloud in many D and M conversations with Nina in series 4.
So my wants;
1)Serious explanation from Patrick about the Hotel room escape: He said he could not come home the second night and that there were bigger things they had to discuss. What are these?? Was it the mention of his drug past by Clegg, was it that Nina asked him if he wanted to have children, was it that the guy Keldon abused him in the lift and made a formal complaint (P said that was not the problem), was it that he felt Nina was crushing him (wanting to discuss everything with him too much instead of letting it go: in Episode 4. Will she ever change that?), was it that their relationship moved too Fast (so should they not move back in together?). He didn't like her waiting for him after work. THey need to do alot of talking about all this, his drug usage, loss of Gus (definately look at the scrap-book together)
2)Nina needing to say what she wants/feels in a 2 way dialogue (Patrick said on roof to Doc Dad that Nina didn't want him there at the party, and at her party as he stared at her, she would look away. He looked alone, awkward). He nailed that scene at the party and on the rooftop with Doc Dad.
3) more Patrick cuddles (love the way he wraps his arms right around Nina)or even better sexy vase smashing scenes. Doesn't matter that she is pregnant for continuing sexy scenes.
4) time together for N and P without her family interruptions. She would run off to talk to Darcy or Doc Dad just when Patrick was getting romantic (he would say tonight? Now?)
5) Horse riding weekend away without the Phone of Doom (love the ring tone though: know many girls who have adopted it)
5)Jimmy: still funny and quirky, alternate but yet mature.
6)A good relationship between Patrick and Doc Dad
7)Billie one liners e.g. birthday party "you are not good at talking but obviously very good at other things"
8)Sister Kate
I dont want
1)Motel escapes from Patrick
2) Drug use from Patrick
3) a mis-carriage
4) A Jesus baby
5)Nina saying the opposite to what she really wants : the balcony scene where she tells Patrick it is over and he should pack up his stuff and move out when she clearly didn't want that.
6) Two dads trying to outdo each other: eg dancing at party
Favourite scenes
1)The ultrasound scene: quiet (in contrast to the party), seductive lighting, undressing, kissing. N and P nailed it
2)Bath scene
3)Sexy vase smashing scene
Can we send all our ideas to the writers or get them to read this blog since we all are obsessed and spend way to much time on this. Hope it becomes of some use.
Bahahaha! Patricksfan, something about your two dads outdoing each other (eg dancing) comment made me absolutely crack up.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad I'm not the only one still thinking about Offspring 10 days after the final! It feels so unresolved, I want closure dammit! And I can't stop watching random episodes from season 2 and 3 to get my Matt Le Nevez fix. :-D
Has anyone considered that, having asked Kim to be Alfie's godmother, the death of Zara or Jimmy might be on the cards?
I hadn't considered that at all. I would think it unlikely that they would kill either of those characters off.
ReplyDeleteMore likely to loose Darcy or Alfie IMHO - but hey anything is possible!
I remember reading an article where Deb Oswald (unsure of name spelling there) said that she wanted to create a show that wasn't just about death, but more about life.
Its official, TV recapping is cool :-)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.newyorker.com/humor/issuecartoons/2012/07/23/cartoons_20120716#slide=9
Keep checking back for comments and enjoying all the additions.
Check this link out. Will be interesting to see how they make Patrick cope...
ReplyDeletehttp://www.mamamia.com.au/parenting/my-chance-encounter-with-offspring/
thanks for sharing this Fee. sounds very hopeful for a live healthy Patrick and Nina bub then - yay!
DeleteOne thing that really bugged me about the break-up was that I found it strange that a couple working in an obstetric hospital surrounded by newborns had never discussed kids earlier in their dating relationship. Loved Patricks fan point 1 - yes let them write that in their Offspring way as I think most of the audeince still want to know why??? the audience as a whole seem to feel cheated by the break up and how it was handled.
I am wondering how long this post offspring lag is going to last. I'm trying to replace it with Tangle but its not working very well at the moment. I just can't seem to get over Kat Stewarts english accent. Maybe will have to go back to rewatching old episodes...
I may be watching it from the beginning at the telemovie....
ReplyDeleteyes do it - it will make me feel like I'm a little less sad for not being able to move on! i just rewatched telemovie and series 1 recently when I was convinced Offspring wasn't being renewed. so interesting to see how the show has changed over time, in particular how cleggs accent & fruitiness was shaped up from the telemovie to the episodes, Nina's wardrobe has had a major cash injection since series 1 because she looks like she's mostly in opshop attire, plus a lot less internal monologue after series 1.
DeleteI have introduced the show to my best mate. We are watching the first season right now. Plus i am watching some Season 2 on the side.
Delete*sigh* just_a_bit_addicted
Firstly, I've been reading your recaps for a while, but never commented. Until I decided to click on this for fun, and found this brilliant page full of Offspring discussion. You won't believe how happy this makes me! I'm completely obsessed with the show, and it's intensified by the fact that I have no one in real life to discuss this with. I (finally) found people who watch it and love it, but it's a lot of fangirling and they kind of refuse to admit flaws. I love that you address the issues in this series.
ReplyDeleteI don't really have much to add, since everyone's pretty much covered everything (I'm a little late in joining this discussion, as you can see by the date.) I wholeheartedly agree with the fact that the on/off relationship has been dragged on for far too long. I just hope they pull off a real, long term relationship. Because so far we haven't seen that at all - definitely not in Nina/Patrick, but not any of the couples in the series at all.
One thing I have to say that I don't think has been mentioned: Nina's neediness. I love Nina's rambling, internal monologue and I have no issue with her awkwardness (it is overdone at times, I admit, but otherwise I enjoy it). But there have been a few times where I've been quite irritated with her. The first time was back in season 2 where Nina freaks out about having the family dinner where Patrick is introduced to the family. I'm not saying she shouldn't have been wound up (that's just Nina), but the way she exploded at Patrick saying something like "I was more than happy to cancel, more than happy" and then poor Patrick has to smooth everything out and calls Cherie. Nina exploding wasn't the issue, it was the fact that they never really talk about it, and she never properly apologises for it. And Patrick just placates her with a kiss. And it happened again in season 3 when she thought she was an imposition at Patrick's and loses it. Again, her being upset and distraught wasn't the issue (she was dealing with a lot at the time anyway) but it's how these situations are resolved that is annoying. Patrick says "we should move in together", kisses her and they run off to have sex, presumably. It seems a little ridiculous.
And I suppose that's just the ongoing problem in this show of a complete lack of communication between characters. Sexy kisses from Patrick only works for a while (as we found out). I'm excited to see what they do with the next seasons, because there is a lot of potential here. It's just a question of how smart the writers will be.
[And if they decide to google Offspring blogs, because God knows this page would really really help them.]
I agree, you can't just fix every problem by going in for the snog unfortunately.
DeleteI think this is the only Offspring blog around that isn't about OMG Patrick, Nina, the fashion?!
DeleteInteresting input Owl.
Sometimes it feels like we are told a lot of things like Nina's neediness but it isn't always presented clearly. And there's the slightly surreal aspects of the show which makes you wonder how much is exaggerated and how much is a real representation of the person(s). I think the show is a little muddled about what it wants to be but somehow on the whole it works very well.
I actually didn't enjoy S1 because of the over the top Nina neediness/insecurity and nearly didn't check S2.
Fee (below) yes that's true you can't completely change. But while there is the easy snog option which the show keeps coming up with, behind it I think Nina holds the cards in the relationship. That is, no matter how much he tries to run away and be done with it Patrick eventually capitulates and returns - that's how the dynamic always seems to me anyway. And I think S2 had a bit of Patrick being a bit calming on Nina which was thrown away in S3.
PS: Re the wants I forgot that in S4 Patrick must speak....more French!!!
I agree with you on Season 1. I actually only got hooked a few episodes into season 2. I've watched season 1 now, and while I did enjoy it, the show has definitely improved. I think season 1-neurotic Nina was important to explore - and it's set the scene for the upcoming seasons. I thought it provided good comedy, but I'm glad they let the character grow because that level of being obsessed and neurotic would have gotten old, fast.
DeleteI have been thinking baot it and I will be interested to see is how Nina's insecurities will go. She is insecure at the best of times. What will she be like in the post "getting back together honeymoon period"? I wonder if the writers will address her being concerned that he is going to 'check out' of the relationship when things get hard? Sure there is a child involved, but 35 years of neuroticism and insecurity can’t disappear because of a pregnancy. If anything I would imagine it would be amplified. I know I would struggle to fully believe or trust someone if they had checked out on me like that (baby or no baby).
ReplyDeleteAny thoughts?
That's really interesting - it's what I've been thinking about too. So far we haven't seen Nina in a relationship "post-honeymoon period", so I really hope the show does that justice. It's the natural step forward, since season 1 was Nina acting all teenage-lovesick, season 2 was her moving on and finding new, less teenage-y love and season 3 was her in the beginning of proper relationship for the first time since Brendan. I have to admit, I'm worried if they can pull it off. I want the writers to address her being concerned about Patrick "checking out" too, but I also want Nina to learn from past mistakes and not jump to conclusions - to actually, properly communicate. And I want it done realistically. At the end of season 3 Nina finally gets that they're "not good at talking", as Billie says, so there's plenty of room to explore this. Fingers crossed the next season is everything I want it to be, and more.
DeleteAnd YES YES YES SombreFilly - more French! I'm learning it, and it's such a beautiful language, made even more beautiful by Matt Le Nevez speaking it. If only there was an interview of him discussing his French speaking abilities. I'm fascinated. Actually, if only there were more TV interviews of him full stop! :P
Fangirl mode switched back on involuntarily, it seems. Ehem.
A therapy session or two could be interesting!
DeleteI just hope they don't throw in a skinny pretty Patrick co-worker for Nina to get all jealous over. That would be annoying and already done with Mick and Billy.
Oh yes SombreFilly - more french spoken!
ReplyDeleteI would be intersted to see how they would go in therapy!
I think season 4 will likely focus around both of the insecurities about becoming parents and surviving the pregnancy - how will Patrick cope particularly towards the end of the pregnancy, how will Nina cope with his emotions as she is not particularly good at this, how will Nina cope with visions of Patrick leaving her alone with a baby.
ReplyDeleteHaving rewatched some of season 3 I realised the sexy vase was actually filled with ashes. you see them on the floor if you look close- Patrick's baby's do you think?
Sometimes I think the show struggles with the drama/comedy aspect and puts the characters in situations which limit the ability to process the drama for the sake of the comedy and thats why the audience is left with questions/ feeling cheated. for example although the writers had her crawl out of bed with patrick to go and meet Adam for the comedy aspect of the show..it was an awful thing for her to do him given their history and connection. Where is Nina with a heart? And I think she needs to be made more accountable for speaking her mind and being honest about how she feels if she is to remain a likeable character. Season 2 was much better for that side of Nina.
I would love to see them in therapy as long as its a good therapist who makes sure Patrick gets a word in edgewise..
You make a good point about the balance between drama and comedy. I agree, the comedy can occasionally detract from the "real stuff", but I would equally hate it if they sacrificed the comedy for drama. The fine line between drama and comedy is what keeps me interested - to be laughing one minute and crying the next - but not feeling utterly exhausted by the end of it either. I think they manage it well sometimes, for example, there was that episode where Zara was refusing to come down and see Alfie (then Peanut) and also having trouble producing milk. It's a tough situation, and I think they managed the drama of that beautifully, but they also threw in the scene where Nina goes in to try and convince Zara to come down and see her baby - and it was hilarious. So I think the show has gotten it right before, it's just a matter of keeping it up.
DeleteOwl, I feel exactly the same way about my obsession with Offspring being intensified by not having people IRL who are into it enough to have such an in-depth conversation. Hooray for this blog! I think I should start an Offspring support group in Brisbane. Heh.
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly agree with Nadene regarding Nina leaving Patrick without so much as an apology after what we were all thinking was make-up sex. How awful! Not nice Neens!
I would love to see them in therapy too. And yes please more french speaking Patrick!
The last episode of season 3 really bugs me. I really don't like the party scenes (half the episode!).
Does anyone have any theories as to what Patrick's thinking when Nina tells him that if she is pregnant she would like to have the baby? He just looks at her and makes a non-commital "mm" sound, so she ends up babbling. Later at the car park he's so enthusiastic about getting involved, how can he have adjusted to the idea so quickly?
The scene that annoys me the most is the reconciliation.
Nina - "Even when Patrick thought I was pregnant he still made a point of saying we'd never be a couple!"
How is that relevant to the question everyone in the room is asking, i.e. why did they break up in the first place?
Patrick - "That's not what I said. And you're the one who said happy to be solo rather than to be roped together in misery." Fine. At least it's on topic.
Nina - "You seemed so relieved when I wasn't pregnant I thought - " Another line that seems to be addressing why they haven't got back together yet today, rather than why they broke up.
Patrick - "Stop thinking you know what I'm thinking. Because sometimes you get it wrong. It's my fault we broke up. I messed you around." This is the most un-Patricky moment for me. His voice and mannerisms just feel un-Patricky somehow. But clearly he was listening at the door for a while, or he could hear what everyone was saying as he approached the door, because - hooray! - he at least answered everyone's question in a vague way.
When does Clegg sneak out to get the bone saw? I love the way his face twitches when he comes back with it.
YES I completely agree with everything you've said. LOL an Offspring support group! I need one of those too. In the meantime, I supposed this will do. Not only do I have no one to dicuss the show with, I only know a few people who like it at all. Plus I'm 17, so my friends make fun of me for liking an Australian drama about people in their mid-30s. What can I say? I just don't like shows like Vampire Diaries and Pretty Little Liars.
DeleteAnyway, I agree with everything you said about the end scene. It all felt high contrived, especially Patrick's lines. You're right, Patrick would never talk like that. While I definitely wanted and expected some sort of acknowledgement from Patrick that he stuffed up, how did he make such a huge turn around so quickly? Just earlier that episode he couldn't even express to Nina that he actually wanted to be a father to the baby at first. And then he magically reappears at the right moment declaring his love etc so articulately? It feels like the writers were insulting our intelligence there.
And yeah, they don't once explain why Nina and Patrick broke up in the first place. It's only implied it was because of that ONE time Nina asked Patrick, "Do you want kids?" And Patrick SEEMED uncertain. He didn't explicitly state anything. Yet Nina says to Dr. Noonan, "Patrick doesn't want kids" and Patrick says "I know I've given you plenty of reasons to think I don't want another baby". Um, no. You guys only mentioned babies ONCE. I mean, honestly.
As for theories on what Patrick was thinking, I believe that he assumed that Nina wanted to do things solo and didn't want anything to do with him, and he was hurt, so decided not to say anything at all. (Because that's always the best option - assume something terrible and never bother to confirm any of it!) I believe afterwards he realised he should have been more clear that he wanted to be involved, and whether or not Nina wanted a relationship was besides the point. That's how I interpreted it, anyway. Basically, throughout the episode, Nina thinks Patrick doesn't want a baby or a relationship, and Patrick feels the same about Nina. It's insane, it's contrived, and it's frustrating. The occasional misunderstanding for dramatic effect is fine - this episode just crossed the limit.
I'm so glad I wasn't the only one who noticed the Clegg thing! I'll have to watch the episode again, but it doesn't really make sense because the only time he could have left was after he realised Nina couldn't open the pinata herself. And I'm sure he was in the room when Patrick gave his little speech, so he can't have gone and got it before Patrick came back. Leaving only one option: he must have slipped out at some point during the reunion without anyone realising. Also unlikely, since the room was pretty quiet during that Patrick speech. Eh. I dunno. I don't think that the writers expected anybody to notice these fine details - and I don't blame them.
I've rambled enough. Over and out. [This is probably a good indication to you, and any body else out there with no one to discuss this in real life with, that I am more than willing to be your Offspring buddy. XP]
my thoughts on patricks reaction to the pregnancy is that he was never really opposed to it - remember he asks are you pregnant, then offers her a lift, wants to be with her and talk and Nina rejects his offer. this is all because of Nina nonsense thinking and trying to avoid what she thinks patrick will say. then i think later when Nina calls he is thinking about his reactions but not jumping in given they don't know whether Nina is or isn't pregnant. later he invites her in for a cup of tea, clearly he wants to talk through but she barrels him up with the going solo stuff and this shuts him down after several attempts to say " i want to be involved, i want you" etc. I think given his history having some questions about whether you can go through the process of another baby is reasonable - not motel room escape necessary but reasonable to question your feelings.
ReplyDeletebut i agree his lines at the end of the episode were somewhat lame and wrapped up a resolution far too quickly- this is another example of where the comedy angle got in the way of a more heartfelt and satisfying resolution.
I agree comedy is what sets offspring apart from other shows but sometimes I think the balance in season 3 was not quite right. I found a lot of season 3 wrenching to watch and was devestated after episode 10 and that last lemonade scene so i get what you mean about balancing the emotional intensity with comedy but it didn't always feel right to me this season.
Owl you are 17?! You have good taste and you write well - O on Ten should hire you as an intern! In fact they should probably read all the contributions here.
ReplyDeleteAgreed with everyone that the last episode was annoying bar the ending. And they managed the "talk" quite well in S2. The writers did explain that Nina and Patrick were more likely to have to all come out in public but to be honest there are a lot of quiet moments suggested in the series where they do talk to each other. The one random baby mention and Adam (again how quick was a suggested romance surely these things take time) was too contrived.
There was also the pregnancy thing - I guess its a bit of dramatic licence that Nina doesn't get a test kit from the pharmacies or doesn't realise that spotting is common or that suddenly at the end there seems to be heartbeat etc.
I guess we expect more from Offspring writers. Its not a mainstream bland drama, it has some very good writing and its viewers obviously think about plotlines and consistency so we expect more.
Felicity I read your new entry. Not too much into the people behind the films/TV but a witty take on pop culture is always a good read!!
LOL, I know it's sort of weird (that's what my friends say, anyway) but I guess I've always been a nerd about my obsessions XD How old are you lot, then? Oh, being an intern at Offspring... If only. I think I would faint of happiness if that were to happen. :P
DeleteOwl, I thought the commenters were late twenties to mid thirties. But I may be wrong. The tumblr bloggers seem to be in their teens though, so you have company!
DeleteYou can always apply, you may get lucky!
Ah, well that makes sense. And yeah, the tumblr bloggers are the same age as me, but as I said before, they're not as willing to admit faults in the show and it doesn't really go beyond OMG PATRICK AND NINA! (Which I have no problem discussing... no problem at all. :P) But this page has been a lot more fun :D
DeleteYes tumblr is very pictorial so one can only have "feels" for Nina-Patrick! Hard to comment in a thread too. Though I think I did see a feminist piece against it (or was it a blog?) mainly due to Patrick's character-pretty sure I have seen a few pieces/comments on this especially since some of the eps took a few strange turns. IMO you could have a feminist rant against S1 too but it is missing the point.
DeleteThe female characters in Offspring are not always sympathetic and Billie can be annoying (with a lesser actress no one would perhaps be on board the Billie train!) but that keeps it interesting.
I think the usual tv links should work but I haven't tried them.
Deletehttp://www.1channel.ch/tv-2510743-Offspring/season-1-episode-0
http://www.tv-links.eu/tv-shows/Offspring_25521/
I came across the feminist blog by Peta Mayer a while ago and it is somewhat scary and i'm not sure i'd recommend it. she explores the writers' use of cultural stereotypes and its darkly critical and a bit radical at times although she claims to really enjoy the show. an example of this is when she suggests that Patrick gives Nina the horseriding holiday to help promote miscarriage...so dark, cynical and missing the point.
DeleteI read one or two of those pieces. Interesting but the problem is that reviews of this kind cast any male character with a few dark aspects as bad without noting the complexity of the chracter. It would be boring if male characters had to fit into a correct and good template.
DeleteAlso far as I can see Offspring is simply trying to capture modern life with a few artistic licences.
Nadene I agree with you on the Clegg line of S2. Patrick seems to require the Clegg/Kate/Bio Dad prod to come to certain realisations!
Yep agree to all of that.
DeleteI think we all have dark aspects in our character that surfaces in our deeper relationships. and I couldn't disagree more with this reviewers take on Patrick because Patrick whilst broody and troubled is actually a good hearted man. His general motivation is not to hurt anyone whilst of course running around and doing so through his avoidance strategies!
Oooh a feminist take? That would be awesome to read! :D I can completely understand why one would have that view. Like I ranted earlier, with Nina's neediness. Also the whole miscarriage thing seems faaar too over the top. There's a difference between feminism and plain paranoia.
DeleteAnd SombreFilly THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! The links work! :D If only I had the time to sit back and enjoy it, but I don't, not right now. *sigh*
No worries, the link will be around so enjoy at leisure!
DeleteThe feminist analysis is interesting per se. But I think Offspring itself steers clear of gender issues unlike say SATC which lends itself pretty well to feminist analysis. Its mainly interested in characters, its happenstance that Nina and her romance has become central. And of course given the title its focus is families:-)Just my 2 cents.
Hey @Nadene, I've spotted the Peta Mayer blog too and while we started on a similar bent in our analysis which I really enjoyed, some of her more recent critiques took a very dark turn and I agree with everyone afterwards who commented that it then casts Patrick in a terribly dark and 'nasty' shadow and I think he is far too a complicated man. Still, it's great to see more analysis of Offspring out there. Hopefuly the conversation levels raise the general noise around the show.
DeleteFelicity, actually I thought her critique of the happy ending finale was interesting and valid, just not into the more cynical bent of the character analysis particularly that of Patrick's character. who can be cynical of a horseriding holiday for 2?? I think this was more of a tip to Asher's love of horses than anything.
DeleteI remember finishing season 2 and being interested in Patrick but not totally committed to the Patrick-Nina thing. somehow the writers got me in the first half of season 3 and I became completely invested in their relationship continuing.
I thought Patrick implied he didn't want children on 2 separate occasions. Once at the end of episode 4, in bed, after Nina has dinner with Doc Dad and comes home to Patrick, and she tells Patrick she wants children “one day” and she asks Patrick if he wants children, and he said “I don’t know”. Second time was in the big argument when they split up, in the empty operating theatre, when he’s telling her he can see things will get “toxic” between them, he shouts at her “and you’ll want a baby” and she starts to say she hadn’t said that.
ReplyDeleteI would image Jodie showing up pregnant, then Alfie’s birth, and Louise and Stef having a baby after losing a baby in season 2, all these things must have somehow processed in Patrick’s mind that yes maybe he could face trying to have another baby, he just never told Nina that. When he was on Nina’s door step saying “are you sick? are you pregnant?” I thought I saw a glimmer of hope from him – if only she’d let him drive her to the hospital when her Mum called, and if only they’d exchanged a couple of complete sentences then! The following morning when she runs off to talk to him, he offers her a cup of tea, again if only the silly girl had said yes and they’d sat down for minute together, calmly! I thought when she was rambling away about being happy to have the baby solo, that he tried a couple of times to interrupt her (obviously didn’t try too hard though!) and in the end gave up and replied “suppose so” when she said “are we clear?” – then the darling man gave her that fabulous birthday present. So by the time they got to the hospital car park, after Alfie was ok and she had to tell him she thought she wasn’t pregnant, I think by then finally he was really trying to get a word in edgeways, but I don’t think he only decided that moment he did want a baby, I think he’d been coming round to it by degrees. Just my interpretation!
I actually disliked the reunion at the party so much I’ve rewritten it in my head – he doesn’t come to the party but either option (1) he’s sitting in his car in the car park when Nina leaves the party, Nina decides to approach him (I think this is what she’d have done if he didn’t come back to the party, from what she said in her head during the smashing-the-pinata scene “let’s get this fucking thing open so I can go sort out my life”), tells him she’s had too much champagne and can he please drive her home. Or option (2) is she goes home solo, but he follows and knocks on her door. Either way they sit at the kitchen table with a cup of tea (that they should have had that morning!) and TALK – he says something like “we’ve both been ridiculous, we’re mostly great together.” She says something about how they only lived together a couple of weeks before he panicked and left, he needs to really answer that and why it won’t happen again. She admits one of her biggest mistakes was to answer the phone and get out of his bed when Adam called, and they both acknowledge that day basically contained their highest and lowest moments. Anyway they wind up in bed ....
Oh I quite like Option 2!
DeleteHi lou, I like your ending version two. maybe they can have this conversation is season 4 - lets hope.
DeleteJust finished rewatching season 2 - I think over all it is the best of the three seasons in terms of the writing and the finale was so much better. loved the Patrick spiel at the end when Nina finds him to tell him she will be with him. so much better and congruent with his character than his lines at the end of season 3. Season 2 was a bit lighter emotionally too with Nina getting to make a choice between two fabulous men rather than watching and waiting to see if she would end up alone and heartbroken so that might be an influence my judgement somewhat.
Watching season 2 made me realise how great the Billie & NIna scenes are and how season 3 really lacked that because of the Kat Stewarts absence. hopefully there will be lots more great billie and nina scenes in season 4.
I like the second version of your alternative endings too Lou. And what you say about Patrick coming around incrementally to the idea of another shot at parenthood as a result of those 3 things makes a lot of sense, thanks!
DeleteGood point about the Billy and Nina scenes Nadene! And I too loved the Nina-Patrick resolution in the season 2 final. Though I guess part of it was the mood and lighting, and Patrick can't skulk around in the shadows all the time.
Urgh, I just finished watching season 3 episode 9. I think Matt LN does the close-to-tears scenes beautifully. The last scene is where Adam and Nina are eating the soup he brought her while she was delivering Alfie. She says, "I think we should make a toast." He says, "Mm. A new baby." She echoes the toast and then the episode closes. Makes me think "NOOOOO! DON'T GO THERE DEBRA OSWALD!"
It's been great hearing what other people think Patrick was thinking in various scenes. I've got another one. How do you think he was going to finish his sentence before he thinks better of it in the final when they were in the car park and Nina has just told him she's not pregnant? He says, "Ever since - Your mind must be racing with - ." Ever since what??? I'm never quite satisfied with my own imagination. Oh, and while I'm getting you guys to explain human behaviour to me, why does he echo Nina: "A mistake?" and "You're sorry?" He sounds so confused, it makes me confused.
Aargh, I wrote a nice and long comment, but it didn't publish! D:
DeleteWell, firstly I wanted to say the lines "I actually disliked the reunion at the party so much I’ve rewritten it in my head" and "Anyway they wind up in bed" made me laugh so hard. So thanks for that. :)
Secondly, I adore both your rewrites! I only wish the writers had the sense to do something like that. But I'm sure that that talk will come up in season 4 - I just hope it's good and addresses everything that was brushed over in season 3. I'm not sure if someone has mentioned this at some point - but I reckon the reason that the reunion was so rushed is because the writers tried to cram everything into the finale. If they resolved the Billie/Mick situation earlier and did something better with the Alfie storyline (which both arose and was resolved faaaar too quickly, in my opinion.) then they wouldn't have had to resort to cliched romantic declarations during an over the top party in hospitals. (Seriously, where did they get the costumes from so quickly, and doesn't having a party in your own workplace without consent cross some major boundaries of professionalism?)
And I agree that the idea of having a baby slowly grew on Patrick - I liked that. And while I think that Patrick should have tried harder to get his point across that he actually wanted to be a father earlier, I agree that it was mostly Nina's fault because she just wouldn't stop rambling.
And Emmerr, I reckon when Patrick said "Your mind must be racing with -" he was trying to express how Nina must have been thinking of the possibility of Patrick and Nina as a couple and/or as partners in parenting at the very least. I think he knew what Nina was going through and thinking that day, but then she said "It was mistake and I'm sorry it ever happened" and Patrick was taken aback, because he wanted the baby badly, and guessed (and hoped) that Nina felt the same. Obviously, he was right about Nina wanting the baby, but she wasn't saying what she was feeling, so he had no way of knowing, hence the confusion.
Also, does any one know where I could watch the telemovie online? I know it's on the season 1 DVD, but I don't have it (and I'm not gonna be able to get it any time soon) and it's the only Offspring episode I haven't watched. And you can tell, I'm obsessed and therefore a little bit desperate. Thanks!
Owl, i think you are spot on with your summary of the Patrick - Nina carpark conversation. I just wanted to add her saying it was mistake, wish it never happened was confusing to him and also experienced as a rejection. This "I wish it had never happened" NIna stuff occurs in season 2 a couple of times whenever Nina is hurt and angry with Patrick and unable to say I really want to be with you , work this out etc.
DeleteI just wanted to add my absolute fave piece of writing from season 2 was the squash scene where Clegg uses the wounded soldier metaphor to explain Nina's reaction to Patrick's baby loss - "if I showed my scar to my lover and she felt badly for me would I throw her off the train" such a beautiful piece of writing.
Nadene, I agree - the line "I wish it had never happened" is really critical, because as you said, it kinda sums up Nina's attitude to anything that didn't go according to plan. I think she's grown some, but it does tend to crop up a bit.
DeleteYes, that Clegg line was so good! In fact, every time someone (Kate, Clegg, Dr. Noonan) says something to Patrick to get him to do what we want him to do, it's always crafted so well. But I would like to see Patrick "seeing the light" without as much prodding next season! I know I keep saying this, but I can see so much potential for character development. And I'm so excited for it.
Also, can I just say how much I appreciate you guys? I can't believe I didn't join in the comments earlier! Next season is going to be so much fun, now that I know where to go to maximise my dose of Offspring. Hehe :3
Ahh yes, the car park almost-but-not-quite-conversation. If only they would let each other complete a sentence! I think a lot of it was driven by Nina being really scared Patrick was going to be super-relieved that there was no baby, and trying to protect herself from that anticipated hurt – if only she’d known that if she showed him some emotion, they’d have been back in each others’ arms in an instant. When talking to Billie on her bed earlier, she’d been imaging Patrick throwing a party to celebrate “his lucky escape.” By this stage Patrick really was trying to explain to her he DID want the baby, but she hadn’t admitted to him that she did too, she tried to brush it off as a “scare” and a “mistake,” which confused him hence his repeating “mistake?” and “you’re sorry?” and she was saying in her head “don’t cry” when really that would have been the best thing she could have done! When he started saying “Ever since … Your mind must be racing with… “ he was showing how much he really did understand her, that a pregnancy scare must have been very stressful, under any circumstances really, in any relationship, when it’s not planned, but she cut him off thinking he was having a go at her and her apparently over-active imagination, that maybe she fabricated the whole pregnancy scare in her head, but she was on the defensive and not listening to every word he was trying to say.
DeleteEmmerrr - Hmmm if he’d kept going with that first sentence “Ever since ….” Maybe he was trying to say that ever since she’d told him she might be pregnant and it was definitely his, it had got him really thinking maybe that afternoon in bed was meant to be, and THEY were meant to be and could they please work things out? He already had Clegg and Kate (and later, Doc Dad) saying this to him, that he and Nina should be together, but maybe this maybe-baby news was the point he really started to get the message for himself?
Owl – I agree the writers tried to cram too much into the final episode, and I think they should have wrapped up the Jimmy/Zara and Clegg/Cherie storylines in episode 12, so they could flesh out the reunions of Mick & Billie and Nina & Patrick more in the final episode. Billie & Mick deserved so much more than that quick conversation in the bottle shop. And we ALL agree the Nina & Patrick reunion needed more, well just MORE!
Lou, I completely agree that Billie and Mick needed more than a quick reunion in the bottle shop. But I did like that scene, particularly because of Kat Stewart (she could just stand in the background and make a scene awesome). And I thought the dialogue for that scene was good - "We're not turning into Patrick and Nina, are we?" While the scene wasn't enough, it was still hell of a lot better than the NIna/Patrick reunion. Which is little ironic, considering Nina is the main character...
DeleteDouble ditto for ending two! There is a real fan-fiction challenge to rewrite the ending scene. Anyone game?
DeleteSounds fun but I'm sure I couldn't do it justice. Besides, I'd want to rewrite the whole episode!
DeleteThanks Felicity for providing a place for us Offspring tragics to unite. I hope we're not taking over your blog too much!
I'll have a go (provided you all promise to not throw cyber fruit my way). You will have to give me a few days and possibly a little bit of wine to get my "author on" :) Lets make it Friday night or sometime on the weekend?
DeleteHere’s my rewrite of the final episode, leading into a potential version of season 4 episode 1 .... in 2 parts as it exceeded the allowable word count!
DeleteI liked the final episode as a whole, up to Doc Dad and Patrick chatting in the car park, but then after that – Patrick doesn’t appear at the party. Doc Dad has quietly told Nina her pregnant test was positive, she knows she’s been spotting since earlier in the day, she now realises its an early miscarriage and not her period. She excuses herself from the party after the Double Dad toast.
At home alone, she realises the bleeding is a lot heavier and she knows its definitely not a viable pregnancy, she feels like everything is crashing on top of her, no baby, no Patrick, not how she thought her life would be at 35, she falls in a heap on the bed for a big cry.
Doorbell rings, she’s so upset she makes no effort to wipe her tears before answering the door, to Patrick, who is immediately concerned. She pushes him away and holds him at arm’s length long enough to ask why he’s there, what he wants, didn’t they say goodbye in the bowling alley car park? He responds with “yeah, how’s that working out for you, it’s not working for me.” She takes deep breath and says “right, you talk, you say what you came to say, and then I’ll tell you why I’m crying.” Kettle switched on, two cups of tea made. They sit at the kitchen table opposite each other.
He starts with something like “we’ve both been ridiculous, we’re mostly great together.” (I read in TV Week an article before the final where Matt Le Nevez said this is what Patrick thinks he’s communicated to Nina). Nina says something about how they only lived together a couple of weeks before he panicked and left, he needs to really answer that and why it won’t happen again. She admits one of her biggest mistakes was to answer the phone and get out of his bed when Adam called, and they both acknowledge that day basically contained their highest and lowest moments. He talks about his new job, how he is much better out of obstetrics, and how he really enjoyed working with her, she’s a great professional, but given a choice of living with her or working with her, he’d really rather live with her. They both acknowledge they are lousy at communicating with each other. He says he wishes she had been pregnant.
Then he asks her why she was crying. Nina gets teary again, explains her day, the spotting that started in the shower, the positive pregnancy test result, now the heavier bleeding, in tears she admits she really wanted it too, and she’s sorry she lost his baby. At this admission, Patrick is round that table like a shot, sweeping her into his arms, they’re both crying. He asks if she’s in pain, she shakes her head, he says “put your OB hat on Nina” and she says no, she’s ok, just needs rest, she’s so so tired. Upstairs they fall into bed, falling asleep in each other’s arms.
Later in bed they talk a bit more. Nina comments its odd they both forgot to use contraception, she’s never forgotten before, he had her, well, very distracted! He pauses and admits he did think of it, momentarily, that he wasn’t reaching for the bedside drawer. He whispers “think about how much fun we can have trying again.”
Part 2
DeleteFollowing day Nina wakes to note saying “back soon.” When he returns, with a bag of clothing, he shows her the scrapbook Jodie gave him, explaining he should have shown her a long time ago. More tears as they go through it together, then Nina says to Patrick – remember when I found out Darcy isn’t my father, and my flat burnt down, you were amazing, so strong, so supportive, I kept falling into your arms and feeling so safe and so loved and you kept me going – you can’t possibly be like that all the time, but can you try to let me provide you with some of that support when you need it? (mostly addressing the idea that pregnancy would be very stressful for Patrick, but its ok for him to need to lean on her)
Then Nina asks, he’s only been in his new job a short time but when can he take a week off. He thinks he can the following month, and then they can take that horse riding holiday together.
Flash forward 6 weeks, they’re on their holiday together, blissfully relaxed. Back in Melbourne, Jimmy and Zara are preparing to bring Alfie home from hospital, and Billie has an email from Andrew saying he’s on his way back to Melbourne for a visit ...
IF we have to work with the real final episode, then after the ultrasound, they skip the party and return to her home, she goes to the bathroom and realises the spotting is much heavier and its probably not a viable pregnancy, despite the promising ultrasound, lots of tears together, same kitchen table conversation, same falling into bed in comfort of each others arms, same following day...
well done Lou. I love some of the conversations you have included. how good would it have been if Patrick had actually said " we were mostly great together" so much better. and if she could have apologised for the Adam saga also much better. I love the falling asleep together idea too - I really liked that scene in S3 after P shows Nina that new apartment and the next scene together they are sleeping - i think it shows a lovely intimacy and trust.
DeleteAlthough I didn't like N & P resolving their issues at the party, i did love that ultrasound scene, so I would rather the pregnancy continue but I could still see some of these deeper conversations especially acknowledging the relationship diffictulies, the baby book and P's difficulties in leaning on Nina that you have suggested happening.
I wonder, to which conversation was Matt Le Nevez referring? I really can't think of a time when what Patrick said might have meant "We're being ridiculous, we were mostly great together."
DeleteLou, I like your version a lot, because Patrick mans up and owns up to his feelings before Nina gives him an indication she wants to be with him. I really love the contraception discussion, and hope the writers include something like that next season!
Hi Lou good rewrite!
DeleteI agree with Nadene on the last scene though regarding the pregnancy, it really redeemed the episode (in restrospect perhaps the episode is deliberately a fairy tale take - albeit not of the "S4 Ep 1 Nina wakes up and its a dream" kind! - but I will reserve judgement till I view again)
Wow I love that I havn't been on this site for 10 days and so much has been written. And welcome Owl. I think I'm scared to look sometimes in case the chat has died out. Can we keep it going til Season 4? Seriously, how do we get the writers to read this blog?? They definately need to read all our thoughts and ideas and critisism and praise.
ReplyDeleteLoved Lou's version no 2 ending. Hope they N and P have those conversations. My big question is will N and P move back in together. They only lived together for 2 weeks and he ran away. And he said they took it too quickly. I think he felt smothered by her. Where do they live now: he with Kate, her on her own (is she in the place they rented together still?). Maybe there could be some normal dating (with Kate involved in some dinners and get togethers) and some romantic weekends away (without Kate). Maybe they should get over some of their problems before they rush back to living together (can you tell I am older than 40?).
"Even when Patrick thought I was pregnant he still made a point of saying we'd never be a couple!" Did Patrick really say that?
I agree with Owl "As for theories on what Patrick was thinking, I believe that he assumed that Nina wanted to do things solo and didn't want anything to do with him, and he was hurt, so decided not to say anything at all. AND I believe afterwards he realised he should have been more clear that he wanted to be involved, and whether or not Nina wanted a relationship was besides the point.
But Owl I dont think when he said "Your mind must be racing with -" he was trying to express how Nina must have been thinking of the possibility of Patrick and Nina as a couple. I think he was referring to her thinking she was pregnant and then not pregnant.
Its true that often when Nina is hurt and angry with Patrick she says the opposite to what she wants: like when he said do you want me to move out in the argument at the hospital and she said yes. I read in TV week Matt le Nevez said they often say the opposite to what they really want.
The party was weird: in a hospital?? perfectly fitting costumes, food etc organised in a few hours, sick baby upstairs, 20+ year old pinyata retrieved from attic: all very weird. (BTW When did Patrick have time to get changed into his perfectly fitting costume that matched Ninas?)I think that initially we were all so happy they got back together and she was pregnant that we bought this dumb storyline, but on reflection......it leaves alot to be desired.
Matt wrote on twitter his surname is French and they didn't move to Australia til he was a few years old: hence the great French speaking. Yes more of that.
BTW I dont think I want to see Matt le Nevez with the sleezy mo in Howzat. It will spoil my dreams. Just saw the add for HOwzat and he looked fat and ugly (well almost ugly).
Does Felicity have a new entry: another blog site I missed. I love her writing.
Hello PatricksFan! I was wondering what happened to you! I was also wondering about the living arrangements. I was assuming they'd move back in together and the question for me was whether Patrick would move back in to the place they found together or whether they'd find a new place with kids in mind. But you raise a good point about them perhaps not rushing in to living together again. And I was trying to figure out how Patrick managed to get his old place back so easily. I didn't realize he and Kate actually lived together. I thought she just had a key - remember when she walked in on Nina naked in season 2? She then visits Patrick at the hospital and asks, "anything you want to tell me about naked blond obstetricians cavorting in your apartment?"
DeleteAs for the "Even when Patrick thought I was pregnant he still made a point of saying we'd never be a couple!" statement. I had to work that one out too. In the car park Patrick starts telling Nina he wants to be an involved father, and when she interrupts him to try to tell him she's not pregnant he thinks she's going to say she doesn't want to be with him, so interrupts her with, "I'm not saying we'd be a couple, if - there's plenty of precedents in your family for two people -". Since he didn't finish his qualification of the first statement, she thinks he's saying he doesn't want to get back together.
The Patrick/Nina dynamic on the whole when arguing hasn’t really progressed. After watching a fair bit of season 2 it seems to be the same formula used. It is characterised by the fact that they put on this front, and almost bait the other to “fight” for the relationship, yet aren’t willing to do it themselves (I call this “relationship chicken”).
DeleteNina seems to be the rejection queen and Patrick is the silent self assassin.....
They would rather put on a front or stay silent, than put themselves out there and be truly vulnerable with the risk of rejection. The sad thing is the vulnerability is what they are looking for in each other to give them the confidence to let that god damn symbolic wall down (or call the “relationship chicken” quits).
Lets see next time when they fight if the dynamic will change...
Thanks for the welcome! (: Haha, I know I could definitely keep this going until season 4! I don't know what that says about me though...
DeleteAnd I agree - I wasn't very clear earlier but what I meant was that Patrick was trying to say how Nina's mind must be racing with the possibility of her being pregnant or not (which in turn has implications on where Patrick and Nina stand as a couple/partners in parenting.)
I'm with Emmerr on the interpretation of where the line "Even when Patrick thought I was pregnant he still made a point of saying we'd never be a couple!" came from. I don't think we're to blame for being confused; Nina's misinterpretation of his statement "I'm not saying we'd be a couple" was just ridiculous. I know Nina's not the best at picking up on signals and she's often stuck in her own head, but I thought it was pretty clear that's NOT what he meant.
Great point about living arrangements. I remember when they broke up, he went to Kate and said "Can I live here for a bit?" So I assumed that was Kate's house. But then when Nina and Patrick had sexytimes with the vase, it was back at his house. Which made me think, when Nina and Patrick went to find a house together, what happened to his old house?
THE PARTY WAS RIDICULOUS. Honestly, it was one of the stupidest things I've seen on Offspring, if not on all television. I expect more. Waaaay more. Even while I was watching it (and I was in a huge fangirl haze at the time), I knew it felt off. And now, in hindsight and with a clear head, it feels even sillier. I rewatched the season 2 finale recently, and it makes the season 3 finale look... pathetic. Season 2 was so good. I really hope the writers fix things in season 4.
Here are some random ideas for season 4 I thought I should share, in the true spirit of the title of this blog and all, hee hee.
ReplyDelete- There is some agonizing over whether Patrick and Nina should get married or not. Patrick asks Billie to suss Nina out for him (because they can't learn how to talk to each other right away!). Billie reports back that he should propose but when he does, Nina gets weird about it. In the end they decide not to get married.
- Nina sets Kate up on dates with her hospital colleagues. We learn a bit more about the Reid family through some of the conversations she has with her dates.
- Billie cheats on Mick instead of the other way around.
- Nina explores hypnobirthing.
- Patrick has recurring shoulder dislocations as a result of sexploits.
- Geraldine and Philip take the horse-riding holiday (imagine Garry McDonald on a horse!) because Nina and Patrick don't want to take any risks with the pregnancy.
- Rae figures out how to open the front door to Cheree's flat and goes missing for a while, causing general panic. Just cos we don't see enough of him!
- Jimmy somehow gets a job with a better salary than Zara's so she ends up being a stay-at-home mum and struggles with feelings of failure due to postnatal depression.
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DeleteDuh typos
DeleteBillie cheating...I thought of that too.
It might be a way of getting in that soap storyline everyone was speculating about this season (is the baby Adam's or Patrick's?!-even though Nina says its definitely Patrick's). A Billie baby...a bit too much or consistent with the show?
Thumbs up for Doc-Dad horse riding!
billie getting pregnant from an affair would be consistent with the recurring theme of unplanned pregnancies/babies. no one has had a planned pregnancy to date other than Billie's sad miscarriage. I think it could be a bit too much but it would be lovely (an no doubt very funny) to see her have a baby at some point.
Deletethat comment above was supposed to say that Patrick did want to be together as a couple. must watch my typos.
DeleteBack to my question about how Patrick was going to finish his "Ever since -" statement. I feel like the "Ever" part means that he was going to talk about something he'd been thinking for a while, longer than the 24 or 36 hours or whatever it was since the squash game (which was when he got his first inkling that Nina could be pregnant). I'll be satisfied to think it was something along the lines of, "Ever since Jodie visited and gave me that book I've been remembering how much I wanted to be someone's dad." Of course he can't say that to Nina, she doesn't know about the book and he thinks she doesn't want to be with him.
ReplyDeleteAw, that would be sweet. And while I think he was trying to SAY ever since he suspected Nina was pregnant, I do think that at a subconscious level, it was ever since Jodie visited. I think he's wanted a baby for a while now, he just never realised it.
DeleteI assumed it was "ever since i thought you could be pregnant" but your idea is lovelier.
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