I've written and deleted so many posts about my thoughts on season 10 but now that I'm almost done with the season, I am ready to speak on it. The last re-watch I did I skipped the dream season, this time I didn't and as a result I really have struggled with this season. They had to reset everything to the end of season 7 and I don't think there is one example of a story that benefitted from it. It's really highlighted to me just how insulting this was to viewers in a way I didn't notice before.
While the dream season suffered in terms of going too Dynasty on style and the main plotline with Angelica Nero, they did a great job with developing the characters. We lost so much growth from Sue Ellen and Cliff in particular. Personally I liked Sue Ellen getting sober and getting back with JR. That felt more realistic than her becoming a businesswoman in season 10 which ultimately led to her exit. The character was too closely tied to JR and didn't work separated from him.
With Cliff, after failed romances with Sue Ellen, Afton and Mandy, it was nice to see him finally find someone who was a match and see him learn how to care for a woman. The switch in season 10 was almost like a parody and ultimately it feels pointless since he never had a strong love interest again. Keeping him with Jamie would've also given him a strong tie to the Ewing's after Pam left. Instead we just get slapstick Cliff until the series ends.
The biggest losers this season must be Ray and Donna. After a couple seasons of issues, they go the opposite route here and break them up. Donna has been out of town most of the season so we don't get any interesting business scenes with JR, very little of her relationship with Miss Ellie and nothing worth watching with Ray. Then he ended up stuck with Jenna who I don't think ever had a strong season.
Now something they did get right was by bringing the show back to it's Texan roots. I was so happy not to hear any European accents. April was also a strong new character. Still, even with the changes and missed opportunities, I do find the show to still be watchable. I didn't make it to the end last time so I'm curious how I will feel about those final seasons. I do look forward to seeing Michelle and Cally again.
By
Chris B ·