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{{About|the ''Awake'' episode|other uses|Turtles All the Way Down (disambiguation){{!}}Turtles All the Way Down}} | ||
| {{Use American English|date=January 2025}} | |||
| {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2015}} | {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2015}} | ||
| {{About|Awake episode|other uses|Turtles All the Way Down (disambiguation){{!}}Turtles All the Way Down}} | |||
| {{Good article}} | {{Good article}} | ||
| {{Infobox television episode | {{Infobox television episode | ||
| | title = Turtles All the Way Down | |||
| | series = ] | | series = ] | ||
| | image = | |||
| | image =<!-- Deleted image removed: ] --> | |||
| | caption = | |||
| | caption = Michael chokes Tricia Harper after finding out that she had caused the accident. | |||
| | season = |
| season = 1 | ||
| | episode = 13 | | episode = 13 | ||
| | airdate = May 23, 2012 (])<br />May 24, 2012 (]) | | airdate = May 23, 2012 (])<br />May 24, 2012 (]) | ||
| | production = 1ATR12<ref name="episode13">{{Cite episode |title=Turtles All the Way Down |
| production = 1ATR12<ref name="episode13">{{Cite episode |title=Turtles All the Way Down|series=Awake |series-link=Awake (TV series) |network=] |airdate=May 24, 2012 |season=1|number=13 }}</ref> | ||
| | director = ] | | director = ] | ||
| | teleplay = ] | | teleplay = ] | ||
| Line 17: | Line 16: | ||
| | music = "Montana" by ]<ref name="episode13"/> | | music = "Montana" by ]<ref name="episode13"/> | ||
| | photographer = | | photographer = | ||
| | guests = |
| guests = | ||
| * ] as Tricia Harper | |||
| * ] as Ed Hawkins | * ] as Ed Hawkins | ||
| * ] as Carl Kessel | * ] as Carl Kessel | ||
| Line 23: | Line 23: | ||
| | prev = ] | | prev = ] | ||
| | next = | | next = | ||
| | length = 45 minutes<ref name="NBC">{{cite web |url=http://www.nbc.com/awake/episode-guide/season-1/464860/turtles-all-the-way-down/episode-113/503866/ |title=Awake - Episode Guide - Turtles All the Way Down |publisher=NBC | |
| length = 45 minutes<ref name="NBC">{{cite web |url=http://www.nbc.com/awake/episode-guide/season-1/464860/turtles-all-the-way-down/episode-113/503866/ |title=Awake - Episode Guide - Turtles All the Way Down |publisher=NBC |access-date=May 26, 2012 |archive-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529035113/http://www.nbc.com/awake/episode-guide/season-1/464860/turtles-all-the-way-down/episode-113/503866 |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
| }} | }} | ||
| "'''Turtles All the Way Down'''" is the thirteenth and final episode of the American television ] fantasy drama '']''. It premiered on May 23, 2012 in Canada on ], and on May 24, 2012 in the United States on ]. "Turtles All the Way Down" was scheduled to air on May 17, 2012, as part two of a two-hour finale. NBC had changed the order, and moved it to the following week. The teleplay of the episode was written by series creator ], from a story by Killen, and staff writers ] and ]. It was directed by ]. "Turtles All the Way Down" was well received by television critics, who praised its storylines. Commentators noted that the script was well written. Upon airing, "Turtles All the Way Down" obtained 2.87 million viewers in the United States and 0.9 million in the 18–49 demographic, according to ]. | "'''Turtles All the Way Down'''" is the thirteenth and final episode of the American television ] fantasy drama '']''. It premiered on May 23, 2012 in Canada on ], and on May 24, 2012 in the United States on ]. "Turtles All the Way Down" was scheduled to air on May 17, 2012, as part two of a two-hour finale. NBC had changed the order, and moved it to the following week. The teleplay of the episode was written by series creator ], from a story by Killen, and staff writers ] and ]. It was directed by ]. "Turtles All the Way Down" was well received by television critics, who praised its storylines. Commentators noted that the script was well written. Upon airing, "Turtles All the Way Down" obtained 2.87 million viewers in the United States and 0.9 million in the 18–49 demographic, according to ]. | ||
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| Michael regains consciousness (after ] from a gunshot wound when Ed Hawkins was chasing after him) near a dumpster in the "red reality" (where his wife is alive and son is dead). The still-alive Detective Hawkins takes Michael to his car, but Michael flees after attacking Hawkins and causes a car accident. Michael finds his therapist in the "red reality", Dr. John Lee (]), forces him to sew up the bullet wound, and takes him to the self-storage unit to show him the heroin stash. Seeing no heroin, Michael then locks Lee in the containment center and contacts his partner in the "red reality", detective Efrem Vega (]). Vega secretly takes Britten to his house but, upon returning to the police station, is convinced that Michael is unstable and allows Michael to be captured. Michael is first taken to the hospital to receive medical treatment and then goes to jail. | Michael regains consciousness (after ] from a gunshot wound when Ed Hawkins was chasing after him) near a dumpster in the "red reality" (where his wife is alive and son is dead). The still-alive Detective Hawkins takes Michael to his car, but Michael flees after attacking Hawkins and causes a car accident. Michael finds his therapist in the "red reality", Dr. John Lee (]), forces him to sew up the bullet wound, and takes him to the self-storage unit to show him the heroin stash. Seeing no heroin, Michael then locks Lee in the containment center and contacts his partner in the "red reality", detective Efrem Vega (]). Vega secretly takes Britten to his house but, upon returning to the police station, is convinced that Michael is unstable and allows Michael to be captured. Michael is first taken to the hospital to receive medical treatment and then goes to jail. | ||
| Harper visits Michael in jail. When Michael notices the ] of an incoming call matching Kessel's hotel room pseudonym, he realizes Harper is part of the conspiracy and attempts to strangle her. Later, Michael is visited by himself from the "green reality" who leads him to the jail door. Past the door, Michael first witnesses Kessel's murder and Detective Vega, in a penguin suit, shows Harper's heel breaking in the process hinting that this can be used as hard evidence to place Harper at Kessel's murder. Next Michael briefly meets his wife, ] (]) in a restaurant before he finds his "green reality" self sleeping in his bedroom. He – his "red reality" self – |
Harper visits Michael in jail. When Michael notices the ] of an incoming call matching Kessel's hotel room pseudonym, he realizes Harper is part of the conspiracy and attempts to strangle her. Later, Michael is visited by himself from the "green reality" who leads him to the jail door. Past the door, Michael first witnesses Kessel's murder and Detective Vega, in a penguin suit, shows Harper's heel breaking in the process hinting that this can be used as hard evidence to place Harper at Kessel's murder. Next Michael briefly meets his wife, ] (]) in a restaurant before he finds his "green reality" self sleeping in his bedroom. He – his "red reality" self – lies down in bed as well and merges with his "green reality" self before waking up in said "green reality". | ||
| In Harper's office, Michael confronts her about her involvement in his accident, pulling out his gun to shoot her. However, he instead lets Bird and another detective arrest her. Later, Dr. Evans applauds Michael's apparent rejection of the "red reality" and, when Michael suggests his fantastic experiences may have simply been a dream of the "red reality," Dr. Evans warns him not to create a third reality. She suddenly goes still. Michael, confused, goes through her office door and finds himself in his bedroom. He goes downstairs and finds both his son, ] (]), and wife alive. Concerned about Michael's odd behavior, Hannah asks if he is okay. He replies, "I'm perfect," and closes his eyes. <!--Please do not add theories about this scene. This is not the place for original research. Thank you.--> | In Harper's office, Michael confronts her about her involvement in his accident, pulling out his gun to shoot her. However, he instead lets Bird and another detective arrest her. Later, Dr. Evans applauds Michael's apparent rejection of the "red reality" and, when Michael suggests his fantastic experiences may have simply been a dream of the "red reality," Dr. Evans warns him not to create a third reality. She suddenly goes still. Michael, confused, goes through her office door and finds himself in his bedroom. He goes downstairs and finds both his son, ] (]), and wife alive. Concerned about Michael's odd behavior, Hannah asks if he is okay. He replies, "I'm perfect," and closes his eyes. <!--Please do not add theories about this scene. This is not the place for original research. Thank you.--> | ||
| Line 42: | Line 42: | ||
| The episode's teleplay was written by series creator and executive producer ], from a story by Killen, and staff writers ] and ]; it was Killen's seventh writing credit, and Chang and Valdivia's third writing credit each. It was directed by ], his first directing credit for the series.<ref name="episode13"/> | The episode's teleplay was written by series creator and executive producer ], from a story by Killen, and staff writers ] and ]; it was Killen's seventh writing credit, and Chang and Valdivia's third writing credit each. It was directed by ], his first directing credit for the series.<ref name="episode13"/> | ||
| In January 2012, it was announced that ] would appear in multiple episodes of ''Awake''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Silberman, Lindsay|url=http://www.tvguide.com/News/Alias-Kevin-Weisman-1042262.aspx |title=Alias' Kevin Weisman Joins NBC's Upcoming Awake |work=] |date=January 27, 2012 | |
In January 2012, it was announced that ] would appear in multiple episodes of ''Awake''.<ref>{{cite web |author=Silberman, Lindsay |url=http://www.tvguide.com/News/Alias-Kevin-Weisman-1042262.aspx |title=Alias' Kevin Weisman Joins NBC's Upcoming Awake |work=] |date=January 27, 2012 |access-date=May 15, 2012 |archive-date=March 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307161713/http://www.tvguide.com/News/Alias-Kevin-Weisman-1042262.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> The actor was later cast as Ed Hawkins, a cop who took over Michael's spot at the police department after his crash.<ref name="plot">{{cite web |url=http://sciencefiction.com/2012/05/11/awake-say-hello-to-my-little-friend-recap/ |title='Awake': Say Hello to My Little Friend' – Recap |work=Science Fiction |author=Delman, Matthew |date=May 11, 2012 |access-date=May 24, 2012 |archive-date=May 17, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120517180910/http://sciencefiction.com/2012/05/11/awake-say-hello-to-my-little-friend-recap/ |url-status=live }}</ref> This is his third appearance on the series, with the first being "]", the eleven episode. Other guest stars included ] as Tricia Harper and ] as Carl Kessel.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/awake-2012/episode-13-season-1/turtles-all-the-way-down/324791 |title=Awake Episode: "Turtles All the Way Down" |work=TV Guide |access-date=May 26, 2012 |archive-date=September 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130929055113/http://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/awake-2012/episode-13-season-1/turtles-all-the-way-down/324791 |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
| The episode featured the song "Montana" by ] during the final scene.<ref name="episode13"/> Many viewers wondered if the series creator had changed the ending for the last episode, due to the cancellation of the series.<ref name="wetpaint1">{{cite web|author=Jenny McGrath |url=http://www.wetpaint.com/network/articles/the-awake-series-finale-turns-our-brains-to-turtle-soup |title=The Awake Series Finale Turns Our Brains to Turtle Soup |work=] |date=May 25, 2012 | |
The episode featured the song "Montana" by ] during the final scene.<ref name="episode13"/> Many viewers wondered if the series creator had changed the ending for the last episode, due to the cancellation of the series.<ref name="wetpaint1">{{cite web |author=Jenny McGrath |url=http://www.wetpaint.com/network/articles/the-awake-series-finale-turns-our-brains-to-turtle-soup |title=The Awake Series Finale Turns Our Brains to Turtle Soup |work=] |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529041926/http://www.wetpaint.com/network/articles/the-awake-series-finale-turns-our-brains-to-turtle-soup |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="twitter1">{{cite web |author=Killen, Kyle |url=https://twitter.com/killen8/status/205863208777555968 |title=Twitter / killen8 |publisher=] |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-date=March 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305102120/https://twitter.com/killen8/status/205863208777555968 |url-status=live }}</ref> This caused series creator and executive producer Killen to assure viewers that the episode would have been "exactly the same" if it had been renewed for a second season.<ref name="wetpaint1"/><ref name="twitter1"/> In a pre-broadcast interview by '']'' with Killen and actor ], Isaacs claimed that he found it "strangely ironic and amusing" to be promoting the series finale of the ''Awake'' series.<ref name="insidetv1">{{cite magazine |last=Snetiker |first=Marc |url=http://insidetv.ew.com/2012/05/24/awake-series-finale-jason-isaacs/ |title='Awake' series finale will be satisfying, Jason Isaacs and Kyle Killen promise |magazine=] |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-date=October 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015114736/http://insidetv.ew.com/2012/05/24/awake-series-finale-jason-isaacs/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Killen claimed that "When we wrote the episode, we didn't know it would be the end of the series".<ref name="insidetv1"/> He stated that it had a "satisfying conclusion", "and I think it will be a satisfying way to leave the show".<ref name="insidetv1"/> | ||
| "Turtles All the Way Down" was scheduled to air as part two of the scheduled two-hour finale. NBC had changed the order, and aired it the following week.<ref> |
"Turtles All the Way Down" was scheduled to air as part two of the scheduled two-hour finale. NBC had changed the order, and aired it the following week.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tvline.com/2012/04/03/nbc-awake-season-finale-date-may-17/|title=Exclusive: Awake Gets Two-Hour Finale Date|first1=Matt Webb|last1=Mitovich|date=April 3, 2012|access-date=December 20, 2019|archive-date=December 20, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191220202125/https://tvline.com/2012/04/03/nbc-awake-season-finale-date-may-17/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
| ==Reception== | ==Reception== | ||
| ===Ratings=== | ===Ratings=== | ||
| "Turtles All the Way Down" first premiered a day early in Canada on May 23, 2012 on ] between 10:00 |
"Turtles All the Way Down" first premiered a day early in Canada on May 23, 2012 on ] between 10:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., due to the season premiere of the ] '']'', which aired in ''Awake''{{'s}} regular time slot on Thursdays at 10:00 p.m. The episode premiered on May 24, 2012 in the United States on ] between 10:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/listings/20120504nbc17/ |title=(#113) "Turtles All the Way Down" |publisher=The Futon Critic |access-date=May 26, 2012}}</ref> Upon airing, "Turtles All the Way Down" obtained 2.87 million viewers in the United States despite airing simultaneously with a rerun of '']'' on ] and '']'' on ]. It acquired a 0.9 rating in the 18–49 demographic, according to ], meaning that it was seen by 0.9% of all 18- to 49-year-olds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2012/05/25/thursday-final-ratings-no-adjustments-for-so-you-think-you-can-dance-duets-or-rookie-blue/135771/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528073348/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2012/05/25/thursday-final-ratings-no-adjustments-for-so-you-think-you-can-dance-duets-or-rookie-blue/135771/|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 28, 2012|title=Thursday Final Ratings: No Adjustments for 'So You Think You Can Dance', 'Duets' or 'Rookie Blue'|last=Kondolojy|first=Amanda|date=May 25, 2012|publisher=]|access-date=May 25, 2012}}</ref> The episode marked the series' highest ratings since the fifth episode "]" which aired on March 29, 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tvseriesfinale.com/tv-show/awake-ratings-2011-2012-22317/ |title=Awake: Ratings for the 2011–12 Season |publisher=TV Series Finale |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 26, 2012}}</ref> | ||
| ===Critical response=== | ===Critical response=== | ||
| "Turtles All the Way Down" was well received by television commentators. Zack Handlen of '']'' gave the episode a positive review.<ref name="av club">{{cite web|author=Handlen, Zack |url= |
"Turtles All the Way Down" was well received by television commentators. Zack Handlen of '']'' gave the episode a positive review.<ref name="av club">{{cite web |author=Handlen, Zack |url=https://www.avclub.com/awake-turtles-all-the-way-down-1798172921 |title=Turtles All The Way Down |work=] |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528073136/http://www.avclub.com/articles/turtles-all-the-way-down,74029/? |url-status=live }}</ref> He also noted that parts of the episode were "surprising", and that "the show embraced some final insanity before the end, it’s more the illusion of depth than actual depth".<ref name="av club"/> Handlen wrote that "it’s hard to ask for more from an hour of television", despite noting that he was "glad the series got cancelled".<ref name="av club"/> Handlen noted that he would "look forward to their next projects".<ref name="av club"/> Handlen concluded his review by giving the episode a grade of "B".<ref name="av club"/> Matt Fowler of ] gave the episode a positive review and claimed that there were some "gut-wrenching" scenes in the episode.<ref name="ign">{{cite web |first=Matt |last=Fowler |url=http://ign.com/articles/2012/05/25/awake-turtles-all-the-way-down-review |title=Awake: "Turtles All the Way Down" Review |publisher=IGN |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528084912/http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/05/25/awake-turtles-all-the-way-down-review |url-status=live }}</ref> Fowler also opined that the episode was "thrilling", "frustrating", "fascinating", and "terrible" to see Hannah "crying over an arrested Britten".<ref name="ign"/> Fowler wrote that he "love the open ending". Noting that ''Awake'' was "one of the good ones", Fowler concluded his review by giving the episode a "9.5 out of 10" classifying it as "amazing".<ref name="ign"/> Nick McHatton of TV Fanatic gave the episode a positive review.<ref name="tv fanatic">{{cite web |url=http://www.tvfanatic.com/2012/05/awake-review-a-visitor-from-the-other-side/ |title=Awake Finale Review: A Visitor From The Other Side |publisher=TV Fanatic |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |first=Nick |last=McHatton |archive-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528085909/http://www.tvfanatic.com/2012/05/awake-review-a-visitor-from-the-other-side/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He opined that Michael "has a unique ability to dream in a way that feels real, why not recreate what was once lost".<ref name="tv fanatic"/> McHatton found it "fitting that the show ended with Michael closing his eyes.<ref name="tv fanatic"/> Despite the fact that he did not know what the phrase "]" meant, he concluded his review by giving the episode a score "5.0 out of 5.0".<ref name="tv fanatic"/> | ||
| Ross Bonaime of '']'' magazine gave the episode a complimentary review.<ref name="paste">{{cite web|author=Bonaime, Ross|url=http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2012/05/awake-review-turtles-all-the-way-down-episode-113.html |title=Awake Review: "Turtles All The Way Down" (Episode 1.13) |work=] |date=May 25, 2012 | |
Ross Bonaime of '']'' magazine gave the episode a complimentary review.<ref name="paste">{{cite web |author=Bonaime, Ross |url=http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2012/05/awake-review-turtles-all-the-way-down-episode-113.html |title=Awake Review: "Turtles All The Way Down" (Episode 1.13) |work=] |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528060726/http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2012/05/awake-review-turtles-all-the-way-down-episode-113.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He started by claiming that ''Awake'' was "the best drama to come out the ] on television, and one of the finest NBC dramas in years".<ref name="paste"/> He also wondered "what ''Awake'' would be like in a Michael Britten-like alternate reality where the show lasted five seasons, or 10, or even just one more year", Could ''Awake'' maintain this story for long and still be compelling?"<ref name="paste"/> Bonaime wrote that it was "better to have one great season and be remembered fondly".<ref name="paste"/> Bonaime claimed that the "ending is quite smart, given that it never truly clarifies if Michael was dreaming the whole time, or if Dr. Lee was right and that he was on the verge of completely snapping, which makes much more sense".<ref name="paste"/> He was also grateful that "''Awake'' decided to just go completely nuts with the last half of this episode".<ref name="paste"/> He claimed that the episode and series was "different, a rare move, especially on network television".<ref name="paste"/> He claimed that "Once ''Awake'' arrives on ] and DVD, people will rush through in a matter of days and will say they enjoyed their experience with this short yet sweet treasure".<ref name="paste"/> He claimed that works with ''Awake'' should be "rewarded" and "praised".<ref name="paste"/> Bonaime concluded his review by giving the episode a "9.0 out of 10".<ref name="paste"/> | ||
| Screen Rant's Kevin Yeoman, gave much praise in the episode.<ref name="screen rant">{{cite web|url=http://screenrant.com/awake-series-finale-review-yman-174584/ |title='Awake' Series Finale Review |publisher=Screen Rant |date=May 25, 2012 | |
Screen Rant's Kevin Yeoman, gave much praise in the episode.<ref name="screen rant">{{cite web |url=http://screenrant.com/awake-series-finale-review-yman-174584/ |title='Awake' Series Finale Review |publisher=Screen Rant |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |first=Kevin |last=Yeoman |archive-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528041746/http://screenrant.com/awake-series-finale-review-yman-174584/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Like ''Paste'' magazine and other critics reviews, Yeoman claimed that "there was certainly disappointment in finding out that ''Awake'' wouldn't see a second season, and would instead be looked at as a 13-episode miniseries".<ref name="screen rant"/> He claimed that the episode has the puzzling and high points that are similar to "That's Not My Penguin" and "]".<ref name="screen rant"/> Again, Screen Crush's Kevin Fitzpatrick was also disappointed that there would not be a second season.<ref name="screen rant"/> Verne Gay of '']'' gave the episode a complimenting review.<ref name="newsday">{{cite web |author=Gay, Verne |url=http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/tv/tv-zone-1.811968/awake-happy-ending-and-the-meaning-of-it-all-1.3740715 |title='Awake:' Happy ending (and the meaning of it all) |work=] |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120528050137/http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/tv/tv-zone-1.811968/awake-happy-ending-and-the-meaning-of-it-all-1.3740715 |url-status=live }}</ref> He called it "promising".<ref name="newsday"/> He noted that he could see "why ''Awake'' was canceled".<ref name="newsday"/> He blessed "the show for at least trying". He called it "challenging" and "original".<ref name="newsday"/> ] of ] called the episode "fascinating", "puzzling" and "moving".<ref name="hitfix">{{cite web |last=Sepinwall |first=Alan |url=http://www.hitfix.com/whats-alan-watching/awake-series-finale-interview-with-creator-kyle-killen |title=Awake series finale interview with creator Kyle Killen |work=] |date=May 24, 2012 |access-date=May 28, 2012 |archive-date=July 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150712053515/http://www.hitfix.com/whats-alan-watching/awake-series-finale-interview-with-creator-kyle-killen |url-status=live }}</ref> Carl Cortez of ''Assignment X'', again, enjoyed the episode.<ref name="assignmentx1">{{cite web |url=http://www.assignmentx.com/2012/tv-review-awake-season-1-turtles-all-the-way-down-series-finale/ |title=TV Review: AWAKE – Season 1 – "Turtles All The Way Down" – Series Finale |work=Assignment X |date=May 25, 2012 |access-date=May 29, 2012 |archive-date=May 27, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120527140935/http://www.assignmentx.com/2012/tv-review-awake-season-1-turtles-all-the-way-down-series-finale/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In his "B+" grade review, he noted that "you can view it as another missed opportunity".<ref name="assignmentx1"/> He claimed that parts of the episode were "confusing".<ref name="assignmentx1"/> He stated that he would "prefer to have more questions than answers".<ref name="assignmentx1"/> He argued that the episode felt more like a "Series Finale, than Season Finale", which he called "a good thing", "Too many good shows go off into the sunset without a single resolution and this one at least strives for something more".<ref name="assignmentx1"/> He also argued that NBC should have "put a little more promotional push".<ref name="assignmentx1"/> He called it "challenging" and "interesting".<ref name="assignmentx1"/> | ||
| ==See also== | ==See also== | ||
| ⚫ | {{Portal|Television}} | ||
| *] | |||
| ==References== | ==References== | ||
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| ==External links== | ==External links== | ||
| ⚫ | {{Portal|Television}} | ||
| * at ] | * at ] | ||
| * {{IMDb episode|2256145}} | * {{IMDb episode|2256145}} | ||
| * {{Tv.com episode|awake/turtles-all-the-way-down-2447952}} | |||
| {{Awake (TV series)}} | {{Awake (TV series)}} | ||
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| ] | ] | ||
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Latest revision as of 03:30, 5 January 2025
This article is about the Awake episode. For other uses, see Turtles All the Way Down.13th episode of the 1st season of Awake
| "Turtles All the Way Down" | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Awake episode | |||
| Episode no. | Season 1 Episode 13 | ||
| Directed by | Miguel Sapochnik | ||
| Story by | Kyle Killen Leonard Chang Noelle Valdivia | ||
| Teleplay by | Kyle Killen | ||
| Featured music | "Montana" by Youth Lagoon | ||
| Production code | 1ATR12 | ||
| Original air dates | May 23, 2012 (Global) May 24, 2012 (NBC) | ||
| Running time | 45 minutes | ||
| Guest appearances | |||
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| Episode chronology | |||
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"Turtles All the Way Down" is the thirteenth and final episode of the American television police procedural fantasy drama Awake. It premiered on May 23, 2012 in Canada on Global, and on May 24, 2012 in the United States on NBC. "Turtles All the Way Down" was scheduled to air on May 17, 2012, as part two of a two-hour finale. NBC had changed the order, and moved it to the following week. The teleplay of the episode was written by series creator Kyle Killen, from a story by Killen, and staff writers Leonard Chang and Noelle Valdivia. It was directed by Miguel Sapochnik. "Turtles All the Way Down" was well received by television critics, who praised its storylines. Commentators noted that the script was well written. Upon airing, "Turtles All the Way Down" obtained 2.87 million viewers in the United States and 0.9 million in the 18–49 demographic, according to Nielsen ratings.
The show centers on Michael Britten (Jason Isaacs) a police detective living in two separate realities after a car accident. In the episode, Michael Britten finds out the truth about the car accident that caused his split realities, and seeks out those responsible for it. He finds out that Captain Tricia Harper (Laura Innes) caused the accident, alongside Ed Hawkins (Kevin Weisman) and Captain Carl Kessel (Mark Harelik).
Plot
In his "green reality" (where his son is alive and his wife is dead), Detective Michael Britten (Jason Isaacs) sits in a prison cell temporary for killing Detective Ed Hawkins (Kevin Weisman), who caused Michael's car accident. Meanwhile, his partner in the "green reality", Detective Isaiah "Bird" Freeman (Steve Harris) finds heroin that Hawkins, under orders from Captain Kessel (Mark Harelik), had placed in a self storage unit. Meanwhile, Captain Tricia Harper (Laura Innes) shoots Carl Kessel in a hotel room, making it look like a suicide to cover up her involvement in Michael's accident. Michael is freed from the cell and Kessel's body is found.
Michael regains consciousness (after having passed out from a gunshot wound when Ed Hawkins was chasing after him) near a dumpster in the "red reality" (where his wife is alive and son is dead). The still-alive Detective Hawkins takes Michael to his car, but Michael flees after attacking Hawkins and causes a car accident. Michael finds his therapist in the "red reality", Dr. John Lee (BD Wong), forces him to sew up the bullet wound, and takes him to the self-storage unit to show him the heroin stash. Seeing no heroin, Michael then locks Lee in the containment center and contacts his partner in the "red reality", detective Efrem Vega (Wilmer Valderrama). Vega secretly takes Britten to his house but, upon returning to the police station, is convinced that Michael is unstable and allows Michael to be captured. Michael is first taken to the hospital to receive medical treatment and then goes to jail.
Harper visits Michael in jail. When Michael notices the caller ID of an incoming call matching Kessel's hotel room pseudonym, he realizes Harper is part of the conspiracy and attempts to strangle her. Later, Michael is visited by himself from the "green reality" who leads him to the jail door. Past the door, Michael first witnesses Kessel's murder and Detective Vega, in a penguin suit, shows Harper's heel breaking in the process hinting that this can be used as hard evidence to place Harper at Kessel's murder. Next Michael briefly meets his wife, Hannah (Laura Allen) in a restaurant before he finds his "green reality" self sleeping in his bedroom. He – his "red reality" self – lies down in bed as well and merges with his "green reality" self before waking up in said "green reality".
In Harper's office, Michael confronts her about her involvement in his accident, pulling out his gun to shoot her. However, he instead lets Bird and another detective arrest her. Later, Dr. Evans applauds Michael's apparent rejection of the "red reality" and, when Michael suggests his fantastic experiences may have simply been a dream of the "red reality," Dr. Evans warns him not to create a third reality. She suddenly goes still. Michael, confused, goes through her office door and finds himself in his bedroom. He goes downstairs and finds both his son, Rex (Dylan Minnette), and wife alive. Concerned about Michael's odd behavior, Hannah asks if he is okay. He replies, "I'm perfect," and closes his eyes.
Production
The episode's teleplay was written by series creator and executive producer Kyle Killen, from a story by Killen, and staff writers Leonard Chang and Noelle Valdivia; it was Killen's seventh writing credit, and Chang and Valdivia's third writing credit each. It was directed by Miguel Sapochnik, his first directing credit for the series.
In January 2012, it was announced that Kevin Weisman would appear in multiple episodes of Awake. The actor was later cast as Ed Hawkins, a cop who took over Michael's spot at the police department after his crash. This is his third appearance on the series, with the first being "Say Hello to My Little Friend", the eleven episode. Other guest stars included Laura Innes as Tricia Harper and Mark Harelik as Carl Kessel.
The episode featured the song "Montana" by Youth Lagoon during the final scene. Many viewers wondered if the series creator had changed the ending for the last episode, due to the cancellation of the series. This caused series creator and executive producer Killen to assure viewers that the episode would have been "exactly the same" if it had been renewed for a second season. In a pre-broadcast interview by Entertainment Weekly with Killen and actor Jason Isaacs, Isaacs claimed that he found it "strangely ironic and amusing" to be promoting the series finale of the Awake series. Killen claimed that "When we wrote the episode, we didn't know it would be the end of the series". He stated that it had a "satisfying conclusion", "and I think it will be a satisfying way to leave the show".
"Turtles All the Way Down" was scheduled to air as part two of the scheduled two-hour finale. NBC had changed the order, and aired it the following week.
Reception
Ratings
"Turtles All the Way Down" first premiered a day early in Canada on May 23, 2012 on Global between 10:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., due to the season premiere of the Canadian series Rookie Blue, which aired in Awake's regular time slot on Thursdays at 10:00 p.m. The episode premiered on May 24, 2012 in the United States on NBC between 10:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Upon airing, "Turtles All the Way Down" obtained 2.87 million viewers in the United States despite airing simultaneously with a rerun of The Mentalist on CBS and Rookie Blue on ABC. It acquired a 0.9 rating in the 18–49 demographic, according to Nielsen ratings, meaning that it was seen by 0.9% of all 18- to 49-year-olds. The episode marked the series' highest ratings since the fifth episode "Oregon" which aired on March 29, 2012.
Critical response
"Turtles All the Way Down" was well received by television commentators. Zack Handlen of The A.V. Club gave the episode a positive review. He also noted that parts of the episode were "surprising", and that "the show embraced some final insanity before the end, it’s more the illusion of depth than actual depth". Handlen wrote that "it’s hard to ask for more from an hour of television", despite noting that he was "glad the series got cancelled". Handlen noted that he would "look forward to their next projects". Handlen concluded his review by giving the episode a grade of "B". Matt Fowler of IGN gave the episode a positive review and claimed that there were some "gut-wrenching" scenes in the episode. Fowler also opined that the episode was "thrilling", "frustrating", "fascinating", and "terrible" to see Hannah "crying over an arrested Britten". Fowler wrote that he "love the open ending". Noting that Awake was "one of the good ones", Fowler concluded his review by giving the episode a "9.5 out of 10" classifying it as "amazing". Nick McHatton of TV Fanatic gave the episode a positive review. He opined that Michael "has a unique ability to dream in a way that feels real, why not recreate what was once lost". McHatton found it "fitting that the show ended with Michael closing his eyes. Despite the fact that he did not know what the phrase "turtles all the way down" meant, he concluded his review by giving the episode a score "5.0 out of 5.0".
Ross Bonaime of Paste magazine gave the episode a complimentary review. He started by claiming that Awake was "the best drama to come out the 2011–12 season on television, and one of the finest NBC dramas in years". He also wondered "what Awake would be like in a Michael Britten-like alternate reality where the show lasted five seasons, or 10, or even just one more year", Could Awake maintain this story for long and still be compelling?" Bonaime wrote that it was "better to have one great season and be remembered fondly". Bonaime claimed that the "ending is quite smart, given that it never truly clarifies if Michael was dreaming the whole time, or if Dr. Lee was right and that he was on the verge of completely snapping, which makes much more sense". He was also grateful that "Awake decided to just go completely nuts with the last half of this episode". He claimed that the episode and series was "different, a rare move, especially on network television". He claimed that "Once Awake arrives on Netflix and DVD, people will rush through in a matter of days and will say they enjoyed their experience with this short yet sweet treasure". He claimed that works with Awake should be "rewarded" and "praised". Bonaime concluded his review by giving the episode a "9.0 out of 10".
Screen Rant's Kevin Yeoman, gave much praise in the episode. Like Paste magazine and other critics reviews, Yeoman claimed that "there was certainly disappointment in finding out that Awake wouldn't see a second season, and would instead be looked at as a 13-episode miniseries". He claimed that the episode has the puzzling and high points that are similar to "That's Not My Penguin" and "Say Hello to My Little Friend". Again, Screen Crush's Kevin Fitzpatrick was also disappointed that there would not be a second season. Verne Gay of Newsday gave the episode a complimenting review. He called it "promising". He noted that he could see "why Awake was canceled". He blessed "the show for at least trying". He called it "challenging" and "original". Alan Sepinwall of HitFix called the episode "fascinating", "puzzling" and "moving". Carl Cortez of Assignment X, again, enjoyed the episode. In his "B+" grade review, he noted that "you can view it as another missed opportunity". He claimed that parts of the episode were "confusing". He stated that he would "prefer to have more questions than answers". He argued that the episode felt more like a "Series Finale, than Season Finale", which he called "a good thing", "Too many good shows go off into the sunset without a single resolution and this one at least strives for something more". He also argued that NBC should have "put a little more promotional push". He called it "challenging" and "interesting".
See also
References
- ^ "Turtles All the Way Down". Awake. Season 1. Episode 13. May 24, 2012. NBC.
- "Awake - Episode Guide - Turtles All the Way Down". NBC. Archived from the original on May 29, 2012. Retrieved May 26, 2012.
- Silberman, Lindsay (January 27, 2012). "Alias' Kevin Weisman Joins NBC's Upcoming Awake". TV Guide. Archived from the original on March 7, 2012. Retrieved May 15, 2012.
- Delman, Matthew (May 11, 2012). "'Awake': Say Hello to My Little Friend' – Recap". Science Fiction. Archived from the original on May 17, 2012. Retrieved May 24, 2012.
- "Awake Episode: "Turtles All the Way Down"". TV Guide. Archived from the original on September 29, 2013. Retrieved May 26, 2012.
- ^ Jenny McGrath (May 25, 2012). "The Awake Series Finale Turns Our Brains to Turtle Soup". Wetpaint. Archived from the original on May 29, 2012. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
- ^ Killen, Kyle (May 24, 2012). "Twitter / killen8". Twitter. Archived from the original on March 5, 2016. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
- ^ Snetiker, Marc (May 24, 2012). "'Awake' series finale will be satisfying, Jason Isaacs and Kyle Killen promise". Entertainment Weekly. Archived from the original on October 15, 2012. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
- Mitovich, Matt Webb (April 3, 2012). "Exclusive: Awake Gets Two-Hour Finale Date". Archived from the original on December 20, 2019. Retrieved December 20, 2019.
- "(#113) "Turtles All the Way Down"". The Futon Critic. Retrieved May 26, 2012.
- Kondolojy, Amanda (May 25, 2012). "Thursday Final Ratings: No Adjustments for 'So You Think You Can Dance', 'Duets' or 'Rookie Blue'". TV by the Numbers. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 25, 2012.
- "Awake: Ratings for the 2011–12 Season". TV Series Finale. May 25, 2012. Retrieved May 26, 2012.
- ^ Handlen, Zack (May 24, 2012). "Turtles All The Way Down". The A.V. Club. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- ^ Fowler, Matt (May 24, 2012). "Awake: "Turtles All the Way Down" Review". IGN. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- ^ McHatton, Nick (May 25, 2012). "Awake Finale Review: A Visitor From The Other Side". TV Fanatic. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- ^ Bonaime, Ross (May 25, 2012). "Awake Review: "Turtles All The Way Down" (Episode 1.13)". Paste. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- ^ Yeoman, Kevin (May 25, 2012). "'Awake' Series Finale Review". Screen Rant. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- ^ Gay, Verne (May 25, 2012). "'Awake:' Happy ending (and the meaning of it all)". Newsday. Archived from the original on May 28, 2012. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- Sepinwall, Alan (May 24, 2012). "Awake series finale interview with creator Kyle Killen". HitFix. Archived from the original on July 12, 2015. Retrieved May 28, 2012.
- ^ "TV Review: AWAKE – Season 1 – "Turtles All The Way Down" – Series Finale". Assignment X. May 25, 2012. Archived from the original on May 27, 2012. Retrieved May 29, 2012.
External links
| Awake | |
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| Characters | |
| Episodes | |
