Desperate Housewives (TV Series) Running to Stand Still (2004) User Reviews

Good Desperate Housewives episode.

[m-47826 · 7/10 · 6 March 2023]

The kind that proved how engaging the show could be. Lynette's feud with that Hilary supporter, was a nice reminder of how things used to be, not so long ago. And a sad realization, because people that used to be grotesque manifestations of Political correctness, on TV. Are now calling the shots in real life... The plot involving Gabby, mama Solis and Carlos, is gripping and the funniest part of this end of first half of season. And it's a shame it will be dealt with so soon after. Rex and Bree marital problems are a bit of a drag, and I still wonder if the burrito was meant to look appetizing. Or downright disgusting. And of course, there's Susan and her silly ideas. That could have gotten her daughter in real trouble. I'm really enjoying rewatching these early episodes of Desperate Housewives, and it's funny how I notice things I didn't before. Like how Paul Young was actually a victim, and a good father. Regardless of appearances. And how Pretty Little Liars, was no more than the teen drama version of this show. Also, how Julie used to be a the best character, and was ruined afterwards. I guess it helps knowing the big mysteries in advance. That way you can concentrate more on the narrative structure. Which gives a new appeal to revisiting old episodes.

Style nearly swamps the content

[andmathews · 7/10 · 20 April 2008]

This episode showcases the best and the well, mediocre, of Desperate Housewives. At times it's a little too melodramatic, especially Lynette's clash with Maisy which is a bit of a disappointingly easy victory for the underdog (perhaps they could've spread it over several episodes?) and Gabrielle's troubles with her mother-in-law is quite a funny aside but it just seems like padding until Mama Solis finds out her secret.

Bree was by far the most interesting in this episode and I challenge anyone to say that Marcia Cross isn't up there with Huffman in the acting stakes. Trying to resurrect her marriage and sex life with Rex while attempting in vain to ignore her painfully hygienic nature, things aren't made easier for Bree with Rex pulling away from her. He even suggests they need a 'sex surrogate' - he's clearly been reading the dystopian novel, The Handmaid's Tale! Again Cross portrays her conflicting emotions brilliantly, and this episode serves as a guide to her character primarily, proving that Bree has more to her than just being a Stepford wife.

It's enjoyable as a whole and there are quite a few funny moments but I'm hoping (I'm going through the episodes for the first time) for some better story lines for Lynette and Gabrielle.