Ghosts Season 5, Episode 20, “Polar Opposites” Spoilers Ahead
Ghosts delivers an interesting episode that’s so specifically me-coded, I’m here for every minute of it. The happy endings of it all—the importance of giving people something warm and tangible instead of dark and dreary. And there’s a lot to say about how it’s framed through Sam, of all characters, which makes it even more interesting.
Ghosts Season 5, Episode 20 Makes a Case For Happy Endings
There are few things as comforting as knowing that when the show eventually ends, we’ll get a happy ending through it, with each of the characters in a place they deserve and an arc that’s fitting for them. That’s what an episode like “Polar Opposites” promotes, and it’s hopefully what the series is sending out a message on.
Because while sitcoms generally give us more satisfying endings than dramas, we’ve got enough trust issues to doubt the potential sometimes. And though that’s usually not the case with Ghosts and the way the writers have consistently honored the characters, it’s still easy to wonder sometimes. But interestingly, everything about this arc works as a testament to romance, including how Flower has been neglecting Thor since her election. And like last week’s “Gate-gate,” it’s a reminder that honest communication is the way to go in every area.
The fact that we get Thor voicing his concerns and simultaneously hear Flower understand him is no small feat, and again, it’s especially gripping in an episode that champions endurance in the form of a happy ending. And while sure, this isn’t an ending, but it’s another promise of one, which Ghosts continues to be great at in the form of ensuring its characters get good things.
In addition, on any other show, the concept of gaslighting would’ve been wildly problematic to push on someone, but the grace the writers handle it with in the form of the ghosts trying to do right by Sam is understandable. The screenplay isn’t some huge issue they’re trying to change with Paula, so it doesn’t feel as selfish and vile as it is in the real world.
Simultaneously, the reason so much of it works is that we get to see all our characters working together again, which is something that continues to be a strength in Ghosts week after week. It’s the one constant that tirelessly ensures that each episode features something substantial we can hold onto.
And as someone whose favorite pairing isn’t even together right now (Hetty and Trevor), I’m taking it as a win for the future. It’s not proof of anything, but it’s a small sign that’s important in proving that happy endings have substance and soul, too. They aren’t the easy way out, nor are they lacking in nuance, the way that people tend to think when dismissing them. It continues to be everything to have Joan back on the show, and Ghosts Season 5, Episode 20, “Polar Opposites” continues to be a reminder of why her role is so vital. And the ending with Isaac? A two-hour finale? We’re in for a ride, and knowing Ghosts, it’ll fire on all cylinders.
Now streaming on Paramount Plus: What are your thoughts on Ghosts Season 5, Episode 20, “Polar Opposites?” Let us know in the comments below.
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