Ep 6. My Fair Gretchen / Speedy We Hardly Knew Ye

In the sixth episode of the first season of Recess, titled "My Fair Gretchen / Speedy We Hardly Knew Ye," we see the gang at Third Street School facing two very different challenges.

In the first half of the episode, "My Fair Gretchen," the focus is on Gretchen Grundler, the school's resident genius. Gretchen is determined to win the title of "Little Miss Beauty Queen" at the upcoming school fair, but she quickly realizes that she has no idea how to be "girly" enough to impress the judges. That's where her friends come in.

T.J., Vince, Spinelli, Mikey, and Gus all pitch in to help Gretchen prepare for the pageant. They teach her how to walk in high heels, apply makeup, and even practice a talent (Gretchen chooses to recite the digits of pi). But as the gang gets more and more involved in Gretchen's transformation, they begin to question whether they're really doing the right thing. Are they helping Gretchen be her best self, or are they just trying to fit her into a mold that society has deemed "appropriate"? It's a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of gender roles and expectations, all wrapped up in a fun and lighthearted storyline.

The second half of the episode, "Speedy We Hardly Knew Ye," takes a different tack. This time, the focus is on Gus, who is heartbroken when his beloved pet bat, Speedy, dies. The gang rallies around Gus as he tries to come to terms with his loss, but they soon realize that they may have inadvertently caused Speedy's death.

You see, the gang had been playing a game of "bat tag" earlier in the day, and they accidentally damaged Speedy's wings during the game. They didn't realize the extent of the damage at the time, but looking back, they feel guilty and responsible. It's a tough lesson about the unintended consequences of our actions, but the episode handles it with sensitivity and warmth.

Overall, "My Fair Gretchen / Speedy We Hardly Knew Ye" is a great example of what makes Recess such a beloved show. Its characters are relatable and charming, its storylines are thoughtful and engaging, and it strikes just the right balance between humor and heart. Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or a newcomer, this episode is sure to make you smile.