Chris Colfer, celebrated for his portrayal of Kurt Hummel on the hit television series Glee, not only captivated audiences with his acting and singing but also showcased his writing prowess by penning the season five episode, “Old Dog, New Tricks.” This episode explores themes of animal rights activism, aging, and unexpected connections, offering a unique perspective within the Glee universe.
Diving Deeper: Unpacking “Old Dog, New Tricks”
“Old Dog, New Tricks,” which aired on May 6, 2014, marks Colfer’s sole writing credit for the series. It focuses on Kurt’s journey in New York, highlighting his burgeoning career and personal relationships. The episode interweaves compelling storylines, from Kurt’s involvement in a campaign to ban Greyhound racing to Blaine’s struggles with his acting ambitions and Rachel’s anxiety about her Broadway debut. The episode garnered mixed reviews from critics, but undeniably offers a different creative voice within the context of the series.
Thematic Exploration
The episode’s primary theme, animal rights activism, is directly linked to Kurt’s storyline, as he becomes deeply involved with a local organization fighting against Greyhound racing. This allows for exploration of ethical considerations, the power of collective action, and the potential for positive change. The subplot concerning Blaine’s aging looks and anxieties touches upon the fear of fading relevance, particularly within the competitive world of performing arts. Rachel’s storyline deals with the pressure and insecurities inherent in pursuing a high-stakes career. Ultimately, “Old Dog, New Tricks” subtly examines how individuals navigate the challenges of age, ambition, and moral conviction.
Behind the Scenes: Colfer’s Creative Input
It’s important to remember that even with a single writing credit, Chris Colfer was deeply involved in the overall narrative arc of his character and the show. “Old Dog, New Tricks” likely reflects his understanding of Kurt Hummel and his desires to see the character evolve in specific ways. The episode provides significant character development for Kurt, pushing him outside of his comfort zone and showcasing his capacity for empathy and activism.
Influences and Intentions
While Colfer hasn’t spoken extensively about his specific inspirations for the episode, one can reasonably infer that his own personal values and beliefs played a significant role. Given his well-known advocacy for animal rights and LGBTQ+ issues, it is plausible that he wanted to use his platform to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations. The episode’s blend of humor, drama, and social commentary reflects a desire to engage audiences on multiple levels.
Critical Reception and Lasting Impact
“Old Dog, New Tricks” generated a spectrum of reactions from both critics and viewers. Some praised Colfer’s writing for its wit, heartfelt moments, and topical themes. Others criticized the episode for feeling disjointed or deviating too far from the core Glee formula. Nevertheless, the episode holds a significant place in Glee history as a unique contribution from one of its most beloved stars.
Legacy Within the Glee Canon
Whether viewed as a triumph or a misstep, “Old Dog, New Tricks” serves as a reminder of the collaborative nature of television production and the creative potential of actors who are given the opportunity to contribute beyond their on-screen performances. It offers a glimpse into Colfer’s creative vision and his commitment to using his platform to advocate for causes he believes in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chris Colfer’s “Glee” Episode
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Chris Colfer’s work on “Glee” and the episode he wrote.
FAQ 1: Was “Old Dog, New Tricks” Chris Colfer’s only writing credit on Glee?
Yes, “Old Dog, New Tricks” in Season 5 is Chris Colfer’s only credited writing episode for the entire series.
FAQ 2: Why did Chris Colfer only write one episode of Glee?
The exact reasons are not publicly known, but factors may have included his acting schedule, other creative pursuits, and the collaborative nature of the Glee writing team. Showrunner Ryan Murphy headed up a large writing staff, and while guest writing was welcomed, the bulk of the creative labor rested with that team.
FAQ 3: What is the main plotline of “Old Dog, New Tricks”?
The main plotline focuses on Kurt’s involvement with an animal rights group protesting against Greyhound racing in New York City. He becomes emotionally invested in the cause and develops a bond with a senior member of the activist group.
FAQ 4: Which songs are featured in “Old Dog, New Tricks”?
The episode features several musical performances, including “I Melt With You” (Modern English cover), “Memory” (from Cats), “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now” (Celine Dion cover), and “Lucky Star” (Madonna cover).
FAQ 5: How did viewers react to “Old Dog, New Tricks”?
Viewer reactions were mixed. Some appreciated the episode’s unique themes and character development, while others found it less engaging than other episodes of Glee.
FAQ 6: Did Chris Colfer write any other books or screenplays?
Yes, Chris Colfer is a successful author. He is best known for his “The Land of Stories” book series, a series of children’s fantasy novels. He has also written other books and screenplays.
FAQ 7: Who directed “Old Dog, New Tricks”?
Ian Brennan directed “Old Dog, New Tricks.” He was also a writer and producer for the show.
FAQ 8: What significant character development does Kurt experience in this episode?
Kurt demonstrates his growing independence and activism as he becomes deeply involved in the animal rights cause. He also confronts personal challenges and insecurities related to his career and relationships.
FAQ 9: Does “Old Dog, New Tricks” contribute to the overall storyline of the season?
Yes, the episode contributes to the overall storyline by developing Kurt’s character, exploring the dynamics of the New York storyline, and highlighting the challenges faced by the characters as they pursue their dreams. It also provided a break from the sometimes overwrought storylines of other characters at that time.
FAQ 10: How does Chris Colfer’s personal advocacy influence the episode?
Colfer’s known advocacy for animal rights and LGBTQ+ issues likely influenced the episode’s themes and storylines. The focus on animal rights activism reflects his commitment to raising awareness and promoting social change.
FAQ 11: What are some of the memorable scenes in “Old Dog, New Tricks”?
Memorable scenes include Kurt’s passionate speeches at the Greyhound racing protests, his interactions with the elderly animal rights activist, and the musical performances, especially “Memory” which is performed by June Squibb as Dottie Kazatori.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch “Old Dog, New Tricks”?
“Old Dog, New Tricks” and all episodes of Glee are typically available for streaming on platforms such as Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, depending on your region and subscription. They may also be available for purchase on digital platforms like iTunes or Google Play. Check your local listings for availability.