#13 The End of the Road

SEINFELD, origionally doomed by critics as a "show about nothing," left thousands of viewers in confusion on "The Finale" after a ten year run. Ironically, the unique theme of egocentrism that made SEINFELD exceptional T.V. is the same idea that caused many to consider "The Finale" a let down.

Although much of SEINFELD'S audience enjoyed watching the "New York Four's" single, almost imaginary child lifestyle where friends were always superior to an adult career, seeing the series end with the four in prison was a depressing, surprising conclusion for the series. For the past decade viewers watched the crew live a carefree lifestyle most adults could only dream of, and to be punished in the end for minor occurrences was a disappointment. In a sense, it brought the viewers back to reality, reminding us that the four were indeed human, and karma still does exist in this world. Perhaps this comeback to reality was the biggest let down of all, since SEINFELD was always a source of escapism from a stressful adult lifestyle for many of us. Although this finale was unique, the failure to reach a happy ending, such as Jerry and Elaine finally being back together, or the friends once again getting away for their childish deeds, was the biggest let down of the series.

All the while, writing a finale that does not end in the main character's favor is a unique aspect to the sitcom genre. All too often are sitcoms concluded with a joyous event such as marriage or a birth. However, SEINFELD'S prison scene was an unique intriguing setting, while the adaptability of the characters despite their poor situation was classic. SEINFELD will remain in history as a show that can always make the best out of nothing, an amazing feat than many viewers would like to someday accomplish.