Directed by Pam Fryman
Written by Kourtney Kang
One Paragraph Synopsis: When Ted and Robin aren't getting on as roommates, the two realize that the only way they can settle their differences is by literally fucking away their problems. After Marshall catches them in bed, it doesn't take long for the secret to be out, yet Robin and Ted are convinced that this is a good strategy. And it is effective for them, as the sex does ease their issues. The only person it really seems to hurt in the long run is Barney, who is still harboring unrequited feelings for Robin. When confronted about it by Ted, he takes the hint and cuts their little deal off, as he does a solid for Barney. The reason that Marshall discovers what Ted and Robin are up to, meanwhile, is due to his hope of not being caught "reading a magazine" at work. It takes a little while for him to, but he does eventually conquer his fears.
That image, man. One of the highlights of this episode is Barney's running gag of breaking TVs, which culminates more than once in him buying new ones just to smash. He can actually afford to blow money on new televisions just to throw them to the ground, which is just awe-inspiring. The way his first trip to the store is set up is almost reminiscent of a cartoon, where similar events can happen on a daily basis. That's just gold.
Much of "Benefits" is pretty great, in fact. Even the celebrity cameos are cute, despite Kim Kardashian being the only relevant one in the bunch. She's also the celeb to get the best (but really, only) reply from Marshall of the episode, which is entirely worthy of praise.
Marshall's story works quite well for something that's literally about pooping. Which, to be fair, is a genuine concern many people have about doing in public, and it makes sense. But everyone has to, and nature's calls are what restrooms exist for, so there's no real reason to hold it in. Own up to your shit, and you'll be a happier person. This is the lesson Marshall learns at the end, and it's a good one. And of course, the ending punchline is killer. I don't have too much to say about the story, since it's fairly one note, but not in a bad way at all. Definitely an enjoyable component to the episode.
Because the main story is where it's at. The series has done a good job of keeping Ted and Robin's history respectfully dormant since their break up. It came up in the first few episodes after the fact, as it should, but attention to their past relationship has been spare since, a brief fling in "Slapsgiving" and the whole of "Shelter Island" aside.
Here though, it makes sense how neither of them feel any real nostalgia for their dating history, they just merely enjoy the sex. There doesn't seem to be any real pining for their relationship to return as of now, even if both Robin and Ted are both single. Even Ted's accidental kiss seems more like a typical reflex of him, rather than a reminder of a passion he misses.
But maybe that reflex is indicative of Ted missing Robin as his girlfriend. Radnor made the little kiss seems like second nature, which fits well with the awkwardness of the situation, given both of their stances. Sex helps both of them ease the tension of their living situation, but anything more will remind them of why they did not work out as a couple.
Having Robin and Ted end their FWB arrangement in a mature manner sounds good enough, but the real reason it ceases makes a little more sense, with the Barney of it all. His crush on Robin has been referenced frequently this season, but his stupid ass still isn't ready to make the move. But as seen by his reactions here, Barney sure wishes he can.
Neil Patrick Harris submitted this episode for his Emmy performance, and it's easy to see why. He's great in it, as he does his best to keep a good face while feeling struck by Ted and Robin's escapades. The hurt in his eyes feels real, which NPH keeps consistent throughout. Right down to his ending talk with Robin, where he can be seen wishing to tell Robin just how he feels, but too restrained to go through with it. This is strong acting, but what kills me is NPH's eyes when Ted catches on. Damn, he's good.
"Benefits" has a good emotional core to it, just as this could be one of the funniest episodes of all. Barney infiltrating Lily's talk time with her students is another of many great moments in this episode. Despite this being a brief review, this is another season 4 highlight, of which we've hit many just as the half-point is reached.
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