Mr. Monk And The Dog: Episode Review
TV's "Monk" Continues It Excellence In The Final Season
Oct 31, 2009
When Monk, seen on the USA Network, concludes its eighth and final season this December, a sizable void will be evident on the current television landscape. Monk is a show that families can watch together, minus swear words, sexual innuendo, and excessive violence, and unfortunately, it is a dying breed in today's television climate. It strikes a delicate balance between drama and comedy, adding just the right touch of sentimentality that tugs at the viewer's heartstrings, much like the classic Bonanza in its 1960s prime.
The Emmy-Winning Tony Shalhoub
Tony Shalhoub, who portrays a detective suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder, has been nominated for outstanding lead actor in a comedy series seven times, winning a total of three. Expect another Emmy nomination for Shalhoub in recognition of his work for the final season, with the “Mr. Monk and the Dog” episode reviewed below a prime example of his total commitment to the character he portrays. For a short interview with Tony Shalhoub concerning the final season, please click here.
Episode Synopsis
“Mr. Monk and the Dog,” the 120th episode of season 8, opens with a woman realizing her boyfriend is married. Accidentally hitting her head in an argument with her boyfriend, the scene concludes with her lying on the floor, suffering from an apparent concussion. Interestingly, she is still alive as the credits roll, as the majority of the show's victims during the cold opening are killed immediately.
Monk goes to his assistant Natalie's (played by actress Traylor Howard) family reunion, only to realize how lonely he is, a recurring theme throughout the series, caused by the murder of his beloved wife Trudy twelve years ago. Later that evening, the episode's writer, Beth Armogida, convincingly portrays Monk alone in his apartment, eating dinner against a stark, minimalist background.
When the woman is reported missing, Monk is asked by Captain Stottlemeyer (portrayed by distinguished character actor Ted Levine) to investigate her disappearance. A humorous scene deals with Monk asking the searchers to raise their hands if they know what happened to the woman, and although done previously on CBS's The Mentalist last season, it still works effectively here. In fact, The Mentalist, only in its second season, was obviously influenced by Monk.
The Adventures of Monk and Shelby
While in her home, the lady's dog, named Shelby, is about to be taken to the pound, but Monk shows real compassion after some persuasion by Natalie, a key scene. It is very funny seeing Monk try to keep a dog, as Monk has a difficult time taking care of himself. Notice Monk’s reaction when the dog licks his hand, forcing Monk to always wear yellow gloves whenever he is around the dog. Another hilarious scene has Monk showing the dog where he can stay in his apartment (on an umbrella next to the door). Later Shelby chases Monk through his apartment after drinking from the toilet.
Not surprisingly, he becomes quite attached to the dog. In an earlier episode, Monk grew attached to a little boy, and this episode mirrors that episode fairly closely, allowing the viewer to see Monk let down his emotional wall and love unconditionally. An especially dramatic and exciting moment occurs when a car tries to run over Monk and Shelby. Another priceless scene involves Monk's reaction after learning Shelby is pregnant; later, as she begins to deliver the puppies, Monk's OCD lessens, as he shockingly removes his germ-resistant mask, thrilled to witness the miracle of life.
Monk Gets His Man
Monk's confrontation with the villain near the conclusion is a nice departure for the series, as Monk is allowed to handle the potentially life-threatening situation without any interference from the other characters, showing that perhaps one day he will be reinstated into the police department. The later seasons of the show have often depended on Natalie, Monk's assistant, or Captain Stottlemeyer coming to Monk's rescue, and it is gratifying to see Monk's inner strength rise to the occasion.
Monk and Bonanza: Similarites Actually Exist
Unfortunately, whenever Monk finds a friend or something that will bring him happiness, the show's writers do not allow them to remain together. To illustrate with the earlier example of the long-running Bonanza, whenever the characters of Little Joe, Hoss, Adam, or their pa fell in love, a tragic event had to occur in order to preserve the bond between the main characters. After eight seasons, seeing Monk with a little joy in his life beyond one episode needs to occur. Perhaps by the conclusion of the series, the writers will see fit to take this advice.
4 out of 4 Stars
Pay close attention to the epilogue. In many of today's shows, the final minutes are given short thrift. Seeing Monk take off his glove to touch Shelby's paw, and remember, he needs a hand wipe every time he shakes hands, tugs at the heart strings as only Monk can do. Another first rate episode, indeed. Only five episodes remain of this award-winning show.
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