Ep 4. Cooperative Polygraphy

The episode "Cooperative Polygraphy" is the fourth of the fifth season of Community, a sitcom that follows the lives of a study group of misfit students at Greendale Community College. The episode begins with the group gathered together in the law offices of Pierce Hawthorne's (Chevy Chase) lawyer, where they are all called to listen to a pre-recorded message from the late Pierce Hawthorne.

In the message, Pierce explains that he has left a series of questions for his former study group to answer. He also informs them that he has wired the room with polygraph machines that will monitor their responses. A lawyer enters the room, and the study group is informed that in order to inherit Pierce's fortune, they must answer his questions truthfully.

The questions start off innocently enough, but quickly become more personal and revealing. The group is forced to confront their past actions and secrets, leading to some uncomfortable and tense moments. As the questions become more pointed and direct, tensions rise, and alliances are tested.

The polygraph machine adds an interesting aspect to the episode, as the study group's responses are monitored and instantly judged. The tension in the room builds as each member is forced to answer uncomfortable questions about their relationships with Pierce and each other.

Despite the serious nature of the questions, the episode has plenty of humorous moments, with Pop culture references and jokes throughout. The show's trademark quirkiness is still very much present, with the characters' idiosyncrasies on full display.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Pierce had an ulterior motive for his posthumous message and questions. The study group discovers that Pierce had set up a series of tasks for them to complete, and that the answers to his questions are the keys to completing them.

Overall, "Cooperative Polygraphy" is a standout episode of Community. It successfully balances the show's trademark humor with a deeper exploration of the characters' motivations and relationships. The polygraph machine adds an engaging layer to the episode, and the mystery of Pierce's final plan keeps the audience intrigued throughout.