Sweet Cheesus: Why ‘Glee’ Is Must-See This Week

Fox’s ‘Glee‘ (Tuesdays at 8/7c) is raking in the ratings, for sure, but there is little arguing the fact that the first two episodes of the season were not without their shortcomings.

Well, this week’s episode is here to change that by evoking the fine, story-punctuated-by-song structure associated with the series’ early episodes.

Without spoiling anything, here are five reasons why “Grilled Cheesus” is so delicious.

Equitable Division Of Labor: Amber Riley, whose Mercedes was noticeably silenced in “Britney,” gets significant screen time here, while Cory Monteith’s Finn tackles one of his most enjoyable storylines to date. (This episode proves that Finn is at his best when confounded by something other than Rachel; in this instance, a sandwich branded by the likeness of Jesus.) In fact, I don’t think Rachel utters nary a word for the first 15 minutes, so props to ‘Glee’ for not shoehorning in something just to service its lead. Instead, this episode belongs to Chris Colfer, who likely has staked his claim to a second Emmy nod. One quibble: How does an episode revolving around faith and religion not give sufficient voice to Dianna Agron’s Quinn, the avowed Christian?

Story, Story, Hallelujah: This is going to sound snippy, but it’s the best way to put it: “Grilled Cheesus” has more story in its first 8 minutes than perhaps this season’s first two episodes combined. As opposed to “Britney/Brittany,” which came off the rails a bit after the first two rousing performance numbers, “Cheesus” boasts a beginning, middle and end.

Heavenly Match-Ups: Finn with Emma (in bonafide guidance counselor mode), Emma with Sue, Sue with her sister…. “Grilled Cheesus” is filled with honest scenes and moments featuring underused combos.

Holy Rollers: Every song performed tonight is thematically on-point, suited to its singer(s), and never overproduced for the sake of overproduction.

Hot Flashbacks: “Grilled Cheesus” makes use of “old” home video clips that are poignant and underscored by some of the best, uncanny casting of a younger Gleek you’ll ever see.

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