Who’s the Boss? Season 6, Episode 20, “Video Killed the Radio Star II,” sees Tony and Angela confronting their lingering feelings and potential romantic future after discovering they’ve both secretly taped moments with each other. The episode ultimately serves as a catalyst, pushing them to acknowledge the underlying romantic tension that has been simmering for years, even though a definitive commitment remains elusive.
The Elephant in the Room: Tony and Angela’s Unspoken Feelings
“Video Killed the Radio Star II” cleverly uses the discovery of the secret tapes as a device to expose the complex dynamic between Tony and Angela. The episode isn’t just about embarrassing home movies; it’s about revealing the depth of their connection. The tapes capture not just mundane moments, but also glances, shared laughter, and unspoken sentiments that hint at something more than just employer-employee or even close friendship. These recorded moments become undeniable evidence of their mutual affection, forcing them to confront the possibility of a romantic relationship. The episode doesn’t offer a clean resolution, rather it highlights the uncertainty and fear that often accompany such a significant shift in a long-standing relationship. They acknowledge the feelings, but the fear of ruining their established bond prevents them from fully committing, creating a bittersweet ending filled with possibilities left unexplored.
Examining the Narrative Devices
The Power of Nostalgia
The use of videotapes in this episode is more than just a plot device; it serves as a powerful symbol of nostalgia and shared history. By showcasing snippets of their past, the writers remind the audience (and Tony and Angela themselves) of the journey they’ve undertaken together. These moments, now preserved on tape, become tangible reminders of their bond and the evolution of their relationship. The act of watching these tapes evokes feelings of warmth, familiarity, and a shared sense of belonging, further complicating their already intricate dynamic.
Humor and Heartbreak
The episode skillfully blends humor and heartfelt moments. The awkwardness and embarrassment that arise from watching the tapes provide comedic relief, while the underlying emotional tension adds a layer of complexity and depth. This balance ensures that the episode remains entertaining while simultaneously exploring the emotional vulnerability of the characters. The humor doesn’t detract from the serious implications of their burgeoning feelings; instead, it serves as a coping mechanism and a way to navigate the delicate situation.
The Supporting Cast’s Role
While Tony and Angela are the central focus, the supporting cast—particularly Samantha and Jonathan—play a crucial role in highlighting the absurdity and inevitability of their romantic tension. Their reactions to the tapes and their attempts to offer advice (or simply tease Tony and Angela) provide a humorous counterpoint to the central conflict. They act as a mirror, reflecting the audience’s own observations about the undeniable chemistry between the two leads. Their presence also grounds the episode, reminding the audience that Tony and Angela’s relationship exists within a larger context of family and friendship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Who’s the Boss? Season 6, Episode 20, “Video Killed the Radio Star II”:
1. What prompts Tony and Angela to discover the videotapes in the first place?
They stumble upon the tapes while cleaning out the attic. This seemingly mundane task triggers a series of events that ultimately lead to the revelation of their hidden feelings. It’s a classic sitcom trope – a simple accident uncovering a much deeper truth.
2. Why are the videotapes so significant to the storyline?
The tapes capture intimate moments and expressions that Tony and Angela have never openly acknowledged. They serve as undeniable evidence of their mutual affection, forcing them to confront the possibility of a romantic relationship.
3. How does the episode portray the fear of jeopardizing a strong friendship?
The episode emphasizes the characters’ reluctance to risk their established bond for the uncertainties of a romantic relationship. They are afraid that pursuing their feelings could potentially ruin their friendship and the stability they have built together.
4. Does “Video Killed the Radio Star II” offer a definitive resolution to Tony and Angela’s romantic tension?
No, the episode doesn’t provide a clear-cut answer. It acknowledges the underlying feelings but leaves the future of their relationship ambiguous, leaving the audience to speculate on what might happen next.
5. What role does Mona play in the episode?
Mona provides her typical lighthearted and often provocative commentary. She encourages Tony and Angela to explore their feelings and offers her unique perspective on their situation, adding to the comedic dynamic of the episode.
6. How does the episode contribute to the overall arc of Tony and Angela’s relationship throughout the series?
This episode marks a significant turning point in their relationship arc. While their feelings have been hinted at throughout the series, “Video Killed the Radio Star II” forces them to confront these feelings directly, paving the way for future exploration of their romantic potential.
7. What are some of the specific moments captured on the videotapes that highlight the romantic tension?
The tapes include snippets of shared laughter, lingering glances, and moments of physical closeness that suggest a deeper connection. These subtle cues reveal the unspoken affection between Tony and Angela.
8. How does the episode use humor to address the sensitive topic of romantic feelings between friends?
The episode uses humor to diffuse the tension and create a lighthearted atmosphere, allowing the characters (and the audience) to explore the complexities of their situation without becoming overly serious or melodramatic. The humor acts as a buffer, making the awkwardness more palatable.
9. In what ways does the episode reflect the social norms and relationship dynamics of the late 1980s and early 1990s?
The episode reflects the cautious approach to relationships prevalent in that era. The fear of commitment and the desire to maintain established friendships were common themes in popular culture at the time, mirroring the societal values of stability and security.
10. What is the significance of the episode’s title, “Video Killed the Radio Star II”?
The title is a playful reference to the Buggles’ song and music video “Video Killed the Radio Star,” suggesting that the videotapes will expose something new and potentially disruptive in Tony and Angela’s relationship. The “II” indicates that this is not the first time technology has played a role in their relationship dynamics.
11. How do Samantha and Jonathan react to the discovery of the videotapes?
Samantha and Jonathan are initially amused and somewhat embarrassed by the tapes. However, they also recognize the significance of the recorded moments and encourage Tony and Angela to consider the implications of their hidden feelings.
12. Does the episode offer any hints about the future direction of Tony and Angela’s relationship?
While the episode doesn’t provide a definitive answer, it suggests that Tony and Angela are on the cusp of a significant change in their relationship. The acknowledgment of their feelings opens the door for future romantic possibilities, but the episode ends with a sense of uncertainty and anticipation.
Conclusion: A Turning Point, Not a Resolution
“Video Killed the Radio Star II” is a pivotal episode in the Who’s the Boss? narrative. It’s not a grand declaration of love, but a subtle, nuanced exploration of unspoken feelings and the fear of change. While it doesn’t offer a neat resolution, it successfully sets the stage for future exploration of Tony and Angela’s romantic potential, making it a memorable and significant installment in the series. The strength of this episode lies in its ability to balance humor and heart, creating a relatable and engaging story about the complexities of love, friendship, and the courage it takes to confront the elephant in the room.