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The Goldbergs – “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving” Recap. Ninja Pilgrim.

Season 3, Episode 8

Air Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2015, 8:30/7:30c on ABC

Rating: ★★★★★

“It’s Thanksf###ingiving.” – Beverly

A rare peaceful moment

Thanksgiving on The Goldbergs is here again and in keeping with tradition, it means one thing—the return of Uncle Marvin (Dan Fogler). Beverly (Wendi McLendon-Covey) tries to persuade Murray (Jeff Garlin) to invite Pop Pop (Judd Hirsch) to dinner. Will Marvin’s visit create chaos or will the holiday meal be a peaceful and thankful time for family?

No need to adjust your TV; the actor who portrays Pop Pop has indeed been replaced. Murray’s quarrelsome father, originally played by Paul Sorvino, has been replaced this season by Hirsch. Despite being a Hollywood icon for decades, I didn’t become a fan until his role on the series Numb3rs. I am absolutely ecstatic to see Hirsch back on television. Sorvino’s sole appearance on The Goldbergs makes the transition to a new actor almost seamless. While Sorvino resembles Murray more, I’m curious to see what Hirsch does with the role. I admit, it took some time watching “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving” to get used to seeing Hirsch acting so curmudgeonly. Hopefully, the writers will find ways to show Pop Pop’s softer side. Perhaps at some point, we’ll even see him watching Taxi, a popular show in the 80s that starred Hirsch as part of an extremely talented ensemble cast.

What is Marvin up to now?

“In Conclusion, Thanksgiving” is an entertaining episode that not only deals with family in general, but specifically, the relationship between a father and son. This is especially true for Adam (Sean Giambrone) after he discovers he can manipulate Murray with the song “Cat’s in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin. Instantly moved by the mere reference to the song, Adam has his father do his bidding, until Beverly realizes what he’s up to. While Adam promises to stop, Beverly has another idea. “You most certainly will, after you use your evil to help me.” 

Ranging from a song about “spending time with your kid” to “the greatest revenge song,” it’s hard not to laugh as Murray, Marvin, and Pop Pop each have a very different interpretation of the lyrics to “Cat’s in the Cradle.” It was fun watching them in “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving;” I’m really enjoying their relationship. It adds to the excitement of having more Pop Pop this season.

Happy Thanksgiving!

You knew things would get crazy when Pops (George Segal) decides to let Erica (Hayley Orrantia) and Barry (Troy Gentile) compete over who’ll give the traditional Thanksgiving toast at dinner. The end result, as the two battle it out, is hilarious, and one of the funniest, albeit over-the-top, moments this season. Not to mention, who knew there were ninjas in America in 1620?

The overall story line of “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving” has Marvin once again working his latest scheme by studying to be a chiropractor. Fogler’s performance is fun to watch but at times, a little too childish. Marvin is a lot like Thanksgiving dinner; he’s enjoyable but I’m glad he only comes around once a year. His quirky humor fills you up, quickly making you realize you’ve had quite enough.

As silly as “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving” gets, the writers wrap things up beautifully in typical Goldberg fashion. After viewing Adam’s music video, Murray and Adam share a touching moment that would make any father tear up.

Adam: “So, ya.”

Murray: “Ya.”

I can’t remember the last time such little dialogue has said so much. Garlin doesn’t get enough credit for the heart he brings to Murray.

Show creator Adam Goldberg’s home movies at the end of each episode of The Goldbergs are always enjoyable. As each weekly installment winds down, I find myself trying to guess which part of the show is based on actual footage from Goldberg’s childhood. So, it’s not surprising when a strikingly similar version of “Cat’s in the Cradle” plays at the conclusion of “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving.” While not necessary, the clips always add a level of authenticity to the show.

Tweet me @Staffaroadtrip or leave a comment below to let me know what you think about “In Conclusion, Thanksgiving.”

Tune in to The Goldbergs Wednesdays at 8:30/7:30c, only on ABC.

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All photos © 2015 American Broadcasting Companies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Greg Staffa

I provide testosterone to the site. You won’t be reading about how nice a actress looks in a dress or how much of a hunk Matt Bomer is in my reviews. I describe colors using words like brown, not taupe. My twitter name is @staffaroadtrip because I love road trips and have done two different 48-state road trips since 2008. My favorite show is White Collar.

Greg Staffa

I provide testosterone to the site. You won’t be reading about how nice a actress looks in a dress or how much of a hunk Matt Bomer is in my reviews. I describe colors using words like brown, not taupe. My twitter name is @staffaroadtrip because I love road trips and have done two different 48-state road trips since 2008. My favorite show is White Collar.