Christopher is already doomed, but what makes this episode a classic is that it's so easy to miss the tragedy under all the drama and excitement. Note how things "seem" to be looking up. His adorable new girlfriend Kelly is pregnant, and when she springs the truth on Chrissie he surprises her (and the audience) by declaring he wants to do "the right thing." He seems to be growing up, taking responsibility, moving on. Yet as the rest of the episode unfolds, we see the truth beneath the appealing surface. Christopher is more out of control than he's ever been, and more out of touch with reality. By the end he's literally looking for dolphins!
The same powerful irony is featured in the Chris and Tony scenes. Things have never been better, but the end is near. On one level, if you love wide-open action, the rumble with the Vipers is a series high point. Who doesn't want to see Christopher and Tony in action together, taking on some real scumbags, stopping a robbery, and even posing as police? ("How's your incision, Lieutenant?" "10-4.")
But the joy and camaraderie, the Three Musketeers sense of brotherhood, is all an illusion. In spite of what the classic rock song says, things are *not* all right now. Tony and Christopher drink together, but it's clear that Chris resents being pressured to fall of the wagon. And it's clear that Tony resents his trying to be sober, i.e. Independent.
Next time, there won't be a biker gang to bring them together.
The same powerful irony is featured in the Chris and Tony scenes. Things have never been better, but the end is near. On one level, if you love wide-open action, the rumble with the Vipers is a series high point. Who doesn't want to see Christopher and Tony in action together, taking on some real scumbags, stopping a robbery, and even posing as police? ("How's your incision, Lieutenant?" "10-4.")
But the joy and camaraderie, the Three Musketeers sense of brotherhood, is all an illusion. In spite of what the classic rock song says, things are *not* all right now. Tony and Christopher drink together, but it's clear that Chris resents being pressured to fall of the wagon. And it's clear that Tony resents his trying to be sober, i.e. Independent.
Next time, there won't be a biker gang to bring them together.