'Gossip Girl': the green-dressed monster

I'd say it's time to make those "Team Serena" and "Team Blair" T-shirts.

Ask any teenage girl -- or grown woman for that matter -- and she will tell you that jealousy is probably the leading cause of conflicts within female friendships (I'm sure there are statistics somewhere). That's why if you strip last night's "Gossip Girl" episode of its glitzy backdrops and dramatic foibles, you will have the makings of the show's most realistic storyline to date.

So much about the gradual dissolution of Blair and Serena's friendship rings true. Blair is the dominant friend for a reason -- she's neck deep in insecurity and exerting power over people gives her a sense of control. When her influence is threatened and her ego is bruised, her inadequacies move closer to the surface. Leighton Meester does such a brilliant job of conveying Blair's complexity; she's so tempered that her triumphant smirks are equally as fleeting as her pouts of powerlessness. Her frequent exhibits of self-absorption are relatable, but her moments of self-doubt are by far the most resonant.

Serena, while fully aware of her potential, was content to remain in the supporting role because she already shined in the eyes of her boyfriend, Dan. Now that Dan is out of the picture, Serena, as an act of self-preservation, must find another way to shine. Can you blame the girl? I cheered when she demanded that Blair "get over it" and be supportive. It's exactly what you'd say to the friend who's being a hater. I also liked the addition of new socialite BFF Poppy Lifton. Serena's single and ready to party -- she'd definitely try to meet more girlfriends to go out with. Poppy also sends that message to Blair that she could be replaced.

Speaking of BFFs, how much did you love the pairing of Chuck and Dan? Encouraged by his editor to live a more reckless life in order to spice up his writing, Dan naturally chose to shadow the guy he despises most. It turns out they actually have some things in common. They both have little to no friends and seemingly clear judgments about each other. They also struggle with similar dichotomies. Dan's actions haven't been as moral as his convictions would imply while Chuck's true motivations aren't as deeply rooted in evil as his actions would suggest. I couldn't help but feel a little disappointed when Chuck found out Dan's real reasons for befriending him -- I really wanted them to be buds!

And then there was Jenny, who at the end, dropped out of school to pursue a career in fashion. This clearly will not be the best idea for her, and if the producers are denying rumors of a spinoff involving Jenny being sent off to boarding school, then they need to steer this story away from that direction. So far, she's practically asking to be shipped off! Even Marc Jacobs couldn't expect to skip high school and go straight to Bryant Park. Once she's had her rise and her subsequent fall, I wonder if she'll have any other viable options but to move.

So whose side are you on: Team Serena or Team Blair? And do you think Jenny is destined for greatness or failure?

xoxo

-- Enid Portuguez

Photo courtesy of the CW

Comments

[Todd]

While I'm intrigued at the potential future cat fights to break out between S and B, it bums me out a little as well because I like both. Maybe I'm a softie but one of the shows high points for me was during season one when Serena meets Blair at the helicopter pad and convinces Blair not to run away in the face of adversity (after watching Blair's incredibly bad day unfold earlier). There's something about these two as a team that I think is cool and hope that the show will possibly explore further. But as with with most teenage friendships, which can constantly run hot and cold anyway, I think the current conflict between S and B might be setting up a future reconciliation and possible teaming up - hopefully in the face of some juicy plot line.

Also, I'm actually suprised that Nate and Dan aren't better friends. Also, I got the feeling from last nights show that Jenny may become one of B's devoted.

[AW]

I find on Gossip Girl that the characters often come to their senses and offer an apology too late and are rebuffed, which frustrates me to no end. But I suppose if apologies were simply accepted right off the bat there would be no conflict for viewers to feed on, I just wish it didn't have to be between Serena and Blair.

I am extremely happy, however, that Jenny and Blair may become friends as Serena veers off to the world of socialites.

Where were Vanessa and Nate--although Vanessa is arguably the most boring character on the show, it was noticeable both were not around in last night's episode. And bring back gay little brother!

[Cameron]

Personally, i don't like this new turn of events. Neither of the characters seem particularly comfortable in their new roles, and Serena, who's only goal up to now was to maintain a modcum of peace and anonymity, just seems weird as the "Queen Bee."

[Danielle]

Team Blair! The reason why Blair gets frustrated all of the time is that she wants it all (good grades, good looks, loving family, cool boyfriend, adoring friends) and getting it all isn't easy. Serena has no real ambition except to be adored by someone. I'd much rather watch Blair struggle and work hard to achieve her dream, then to watch Serena coast by on money and good looks. Blair does her best to make Serena more well rounded, and Serena just pursues superficial things. Good luck B!