Best episode I've watched
10
I was wondering how they'd top last year's finale. Of course, to each its own: last year's rampage had a lot of shock value, character development, big decisions, etc. This one wasn't better or worse, but it was different, and hit the nail on the head with human emotions, even bigger decisions, etc. Short review, character-wise:
* Lexie: So, again she's torn between two blokes. That part I didn't like to much. What's it gonna be on the eight series' finale? Thorn between Mark and Stark? Between Mark and the Chief? Between Mark and April? Between Mark and Izzie Stevens? Between Mark and Montgomery?
* Mer & Derek, Owen & Cristina: I can see both sides' points, and I can't say I'd react differently, were I on each of their shoes. Very complicated real-life-like situations where some details *are* b/w, others aren't even shades of grey (no pun intended), but colours ... and just because you can't see the infra-red or ultra-violet, it doesn't mean they don't exist. Wonderful plot.
* Alex: What a troubled but good-hearted chap ... he's very human, which is why I can relate. Some noble things he does, some selfish reckless decisions, sometimes even too childish, but that's what we all (or most) are: beautiful AND horrible. Again, not just black, white or (sorry again) grey.
* The main tear-jerker of the episode: Realistic, very well written, some excellent guest actors, and wonderful choice of music and photography to get you involved. I really felt for those in pain, and it really touched me.
* As for the rest of characters and their individual development (or lack thereof), well, nice to see them making big choices, etc. I'd have liked to see more of Miranda (she was phenomenal on last year's finale), but OK... I did not like, though, the way Teddy's overused in those soapy love triangles. She's got the potential to be involved in more stuff and make her character do something more besides that. Last year, she was the only one not to have any direct contact with the killer or be in mortal danger at any point (well, Sloan too, though he was close to the fire before finding Karev), and now she's the only one who's not having a different sort of crisis other than teen drama. I love the actress and I love the character and I think she could/should do more than a 90210 / Gossip Girl plot.
But all in all, I loved the episode. Even with all the subtle (or not so subtle) things I criticised, because, then again, that's life. And Meredith's narration at the end - wow! Very true, sad ... but true.