While it's certainly true that the show has a glossier look, the feel is still anything but. I feel the characters have evolved naturally and in proportion to their experiences. Bubbles has come out of his shell more since going to jail, etc - acknowledging his role as the voice of reason and sense bestowed upon him by Ricky and Julian.
I can't recall an episode prior to this one where he smokes a bong (although I'm sure I'll be corrected on this) - and by his own admission it causes him to "freak out and need to talk to you guys until you get back" - this, I feel is the reason behind irratic and hyperactive behaviour displayed in this ep.
As for the Cory / Trevor write-off, I think there is something of an inside joke here - although I don't have any solid evidence to back this idea up. By saying that they had been carted off to a mental institution, perhaps (and this is only perhaps) Mike C is suggesting that they are mad to leave at such a pivotal point in the show's life what with the growing success and coverage, and feels they have committed career hari-kari. Just a thought.
Sure, TPB now has a smoother look - but it's lost none of the qualities that make me shit myself with laughter on a regular basis - and pound for pound it's still just about the smartest, funniest, most honest bit of TV ever, and I don't band that around lightly.
"Sheryl! What are you doing? I told you to stay off the counter!! Look, you can have this but that's it, alright? Now take this and get the fuck oot."
Bring on ep2!!
BoC
