“Californication” Season 5-More Beyond The Surface
Written by: Nolan Collins
Californication is now in its 5th season. With the season finale approaching April 1st on Showtime, let’s take a look at why this show is better than you may think it is. On the surface, it is just about a womanizing writer that can’t control his libido which makes life increasingly difficult for him. While that’s part of it, there are many other touching moments as well.
I have actually been watching this show for a while now and have seen every episode (well, I am only up to episode 6 of season 5 right now, but I’m working on it); and I thought it got pretty boring because there are only so many times Hank (David Duchovny) can sleep with a woman he shouldn’t have, and have that decision blow up in his face. That is why, after season 2, I got bored with it. I kept the faith, though, and stuck with this lovable jerk. I am glad I did because I am thoroughly enjoying season 5. We get to see Hank as a good father and a vulnerable guy that actually recognizes his shortcomings.
Episode 6 is especially touching. Hank is coerced into helping write a love song which leads to some much needed introspection about what has happened between him and Karen (his “baby-momma” and love of his life). That love story is what prevails the whole series along with Hank’s intense loyalty and love for his daughter.
Therefore, even though the series seems to just be sexual smut, there is much more to it beneath the dirty surface. We will have to see what happens on April 1st when this surprisingly strong season comes to an end.
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I think this season in particular has been less about Hank philandering his way around California and more about him dialing down the lewd behaviour. What’s been quite clever on the writers’ part is how he’s acting out of responsiblity right now, but everyone thinks he’s just being the same old Hank.
Great show. I’ll be interested to hear what you think of the finale when you get that far
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I agree about this season. It’s been nice to see the positive side of Hank after seeing him constantly screw everything up for the last 4 seasons.
About the finale: the opening was shocking, but amazing how they brought Lou back. But I feel like it got a bit out-there with some of the things that happened (marriage proposal, gunshot wound, etc.). And of course they left us with a MAJOR cliffhanger… thanks a lot, Showtime. That was pretty believable, though, because that woman is certifiably crazy!
Your thoughts on the finale?
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For mine I both loved and loathed the finale . The reality from my viewpoint is that they stretched the story to get to the end. The cliff hanger was completely silly , not in line with the story and completely unnecessary not to mention unrealistic. In fact the whole finale was unrealistic which is not the norm with this most excellent show. When Sam I shoots it seems to be acceptable and something to smile about which is very up hank moody like. Carrie coming back was way out of left field. Anti- depressants take a minimum of 15minutes before they even affect a person . They should have ended it very differently by merging 11 and 12 and getting rid of the junk.
Having said all that I still had an intense emotional reaction to the storyline, especially Charlie reaffirming his friendship by taking a bullet, Bates repaying the loyalty and the two finally getting their shit together. So 8/10 on emotional story 4/10 on realism, continuity and staying true to the awesomeness that is Californication
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I agree that it was very emotional, especially when you are invested in the characters like I am. It was a little too out-there, though.
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