The Goldbergs Review: Major League (Season 6 Episode 14)
On The Goldbergs Season 6 Episode 14, “Major League,” tribute is paid to the 80s sports comedy, and Erica and Geoff hit an unexpected obstacle in their relationship.
This episode is a return to form for the show’s classic 80s film tribute structure. It was done in a kind of wonky way on The Goldbergs Season 6 Episode 11, “The Wedding Singer,” by integrating the characters and the actual movie plot into the Goldbergs‘ universe. It’s not that it was just a strange and new tactic, it just didn’t work—the straight tribute works on this episode, and it works really well.
KENNY RIDWAN
If you are familiar with the plot to the 1989 film, Major League, and you see the scheme that Principal Ball (Stephen Tobolowsky) and the woodshop teacher, Mr. Crosby (Clancy Brown), work out, you can predict how this storyline will go. And it does go according to that plan, but it’s the unexpected nuance of Barry’s insecurity that adds that extra bit of depth.
It is interesting how the plot of the film plays out in the background to the sub-plot of Barry needing glasses. I love ragey Barry, and we get to see that in all its glory, but it’s nice to see, every so often, another facet to him. Troy Gentile has got his character down, and he makes every side of Barry’s personality shine.
TROY GENTILE, CLANCY BROWN
This lead-up also makes the “Wild Thing” ending so much more impactful. Barry rocks that entrance and the glasses, and accepts his poor baseball skills for what they are. And Principal Ball’s line adds that nice meta touch: “What is this song? Where is it even coming from?”
It’s great to see the woodshop teacher back. He really left an impression on The Goldbergs Season 5 Episode 13, “The Hooters.”
SEAN GIAMBRONE
Geoff and Erica’s relationship seems to be something that can just kind of be, but the writers continue to give them stories and development. I really appreciate this. I like what is done here even if the added element of Beverly’s involvement is cursory and tacked on.
It feels haphazard because of how quickly Beverly changes her mind. If she was introduced into the storyline sooner, it would’ve been more effective. However, that poor timing does not hinder Wendi McClendon-Covey’s comedic timing—she is still wonderful as a flip-flopping smother.
Beverly: It’s not my place.
Erica: Everywhere is your place. You have no boundaries!
Good point, Erica.
SEAN GIAMBRONE
Although I like that Beverly doesn’t insert herself right away, the speed in which she shifts gears is irksome. The mother/daughter heart to heart is what Erica needs, though, and what she gets out of it is sweet—it’s evident in how she resolves the conflict with Geoff’s dad, and how she recognizes her faults and tries to be better for Geoff.
Erica: Even though I’m selfish, and moody, and have so much growing up to do, you still love me.
What did you think of this episode of The Goldbergs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
SEAN GIAMBRONE
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The Goldbergs airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on ABC.
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Erin Allen
Erin is a former script supervisor for film and television. She's an avid fan of middle aged actresses, dark dramas, and irreverent comedies. She loves to read actual books and X-Files fan fiction. Her other passions include pointing out feminist issues, shipping Mulder and Scully, and collecting pop culture mugs.