The series finale of Glee, titled “Dreams Come True,” aired on March 20, 2015, offering a poignant glimpse into the future of the beloved characters, interwoven with flashbacks celebrating the legacy of Finn Hudson and the indelible mark he left on McKinley High. The episode ultimately paints a picture of hope, reconciliation, and the enduring power of art to shape lives, even amidst personal and professional challenges.
The Long Road to Happiness: A Recap of “Dreams Come True”
“Dreams Come True” unfolds across two timelines. The first follows the original New Directions members as they grapple with their post-high school lives, highlighting their struggles and triumphs in pursuing their respective ambitions. The second, more impactful narrative, is set in 2020, revealing the ultimate fates of these characters and showcasing how the lessons learned in the Glee Club shaped their paths.
The 2015 Crossroads: A Struggle for Success
The episode opens with a montage showcasing the initial struggles of the New York contingent. Rachel, having bombed her Funny Girl audition due to self-doubt, faces a crisis of confidence. Blaine and Kurt, while passionately in love, encounter professional setbacks and personal disagreements that threaten their relationship. Sam, surprisingly, becomes the new glee club director at McKinley High, stepping into Mr. Schuester’s shoes after he takes a position coaching Vocal Adrenaline. Artie and Tina embark on their filmmaking careers, navigating the complexities of the industry.
Five Years Later: Realizing the Dream
The 2020 storyline reveals a more settled and optimistic future. Rachel, now a Tony Award winner, is pregnant with Kurt and Blaine’s child, carried by a surrogate. Kurt and Blaine are happily married and successful in their respective careers – Blaine as a performer and Kurt as a designer. Sam revitalizes the McKinley Glee Club, leading them to nationals. Artie and Tina have achieved success in their film careers, collaborating on documentaries. Perhaps most significantly, Mr. Schuester leads Vocal Adrenaline to a national championship, proving his continued dedication to nurturing young talent.
A Tribute to Finn: The Heart of Glee Remains
The episode heavily features flashbacks and emotional tributes to Finn Hudson. Through these moments, the audience is reminded of Finn’s impact on the lives of the other characters and the pivotal role he played in creating the Glee Club’s unique dynamic. The re-dedication of the McKinley High auditorium as the “Finn Hudson Auditorium” serves as a powerful symbol of his enduring legacy.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Finale’s Significance
To further understand the nuances and impact of the “Dreams Come True” episode, let’s address some frequently asked questions:
What was the significance of Rachel winning a Tony Award?
This achievement represents the culmination of Rachel’s long-held dream of Broadway stardom. It validates her relentless dedication and perseverance, proving that even after facing setbacks, her talent and passion can ultimately lead to success. The Tony Award isn’t just an award; it’s a symbol of her journey and her ability to overcome adversity.
Why did Mr. Schuester take a job coaching Vocal Adrenaline?
Mr. Schuester’s decision to coach Vocal Adrenaline was initially met with skepticism, but it served as a testament to his belief in the power of music education for all students, regardless of their initial attitude or competitive spirit. He saw an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of a different group of young people, expanding his influence beyond the walls of McKinley High. It demonstrated his growth as an educator.
How did the finale address the absence of Cory Monteith/Finn Hudson?
The finale paid tribute to Cory Monteith/Finn Hudson through flashbacks, shared memories, and the re-dedication of the McKinley auditorium. These moments served as a reminder of his character’s impact and allowed the other characters (and the audience) to grieve and celebrate his life. The focus was on remembering his positive influence.
What were the criticisms of the finale’s portrayal of the characters’ future?
Some critics felt the finale offered overly simplistic or unrealistic portrayals of the characters’ futures. For instance, Rachel’s rapid success on Broadway and immediate pregnancy were seen as somewhat contrived. Others questioned the plausibility of Sam becoming the glee club director after his comparatively less-developed musical background. The “happily ever after” ending felt forced to some viewers.
Why was the surrogate storyline chosen for Kurt and Blaine?
The surrogate storyline allowed the show to explore themes of family, love, and nontraditional relationships. It provided a heartwarming conclusion for Kurt and Blaine, showcasing their commitment to building a life together and starting a family, even if it wasn’t in a conventional way. It emphasized that family comes in many forms.
How did the finale attempt to provide closure for the entire series?
The finale provided closure by revisiting core themes of the series, such as the importance of acceptance, the power of music, and the enduring nature of friendships. It offered a glimpse into the characters’ futures, reassuring viewers that they were on paths toward happiness and fulfillment. It aimed to leave the audience with a sense of hope and optimism.
What was the significance of re-dedicating the auditorium to Finn Hudson?
The re-dedication of the auditorium as the “Finn Hudson Auditorium” served as a lasting tribute to his memory and his contribution to the Glee Club. It symbolized his enduring influence on the lives of the other characters and the lasting legacy he left at McKinley High. It was a tangible reminder of his impact.
What role did music play in the finale, and which songs were featured?
Music played a central role, as always, in the finale. Featured songs included “I Lived,” “Someday We’ll Be Together,” and “This Time.” These songs served to reinforce the themes of hope, resilience, and the importance of cherishing memories. The song choices were carefully selected to evoke emotion and provide closure.
How did the finale acknowledge the challenges and controversies the show faced during its run?
While the finale didn’t explicitly address specific controversies, it implicitly acknowledged the challenges faced by the characters by showcasing their struggles and setbacks. It emphasized the importance of resilience and the ability to overcome adversity, both individually and as a group. The focus was on growth and overcoming obstacles.
What message was the finale trying to convey to its audience?
The finale’s overarching message was one of hope, acceptance, and the enduring power of dreams. It encouraged viewers to pursue their passions, embrace their individuality, and never give up on their aspirations, even in the face of adversity. It was a call to action to live authentically and passionately.
What was the fan reaction to the Glee finale?
Fan reaction to the Glee finale was mixed. Some viewers appreciated the heartwarming ending and the emotional tributes to Finn Hudson, while others felt that the episode was rushed, unrealistic, or failed to adequately address certain storylines. Sentiments were heavily influenced by individual character preferences and expectations for the series’ conclusion. Overall, the response was divided between satisfaction and disappointment.
How does the Glee finale fit into the broader legacy of the show?
The Glee finale, despite its imperfections, ultimately solidified the show’s legacy as a cultural phenomenon that celebrated diversity, acceptance, and the transformative power of music. It served as a reminder of the show’s impact on young people and its ability to inspire viewers to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams. It cemented Glee’s place in pop culture history.