The Big Bang Theory Season 9 Episode 11 Review: The Opening Night Excitation

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Are you totally shocked?!

On The Big Bang Theory Season 9 Episode 11 the moment we've all been waiting for (and had probably just about given up on) finally happens.

That's right, kids. Sheldon and Amy have sex!

The guys are all getting excited about the premiere of the new Star Wars movie, but Penny points out that the opening night is also Amy's birthday. Of course, Sheldon doesn't think this is all that important at first, and he sees no problem with skipping Amy's birthday to see his movie.

Penny suggests that isn't the best way to handle his relationship, especially he and Amy have only recently gotten back together. We've seen this conundrum before, but never have we seen it go quite this way.

Professor Proton comes to Sheldon in a dream, which in itself would make this particular episode a home run. Bob Newhart is always hilarious in this role, particularly when it comes to interacting with Sheldon.

What better time for him to reappear than to give Sheldon some important relationship advice?

The purpose of Sheldon and Amy's breakup is abundantly clear now. Sheldon needed to learn how to show Amy he cares about her. He needed to learn that he had to put her first, and that sometimes, that means making a sacrifice.

For Sheldon to give up the opening night of the new Star Wars movie isn't a small thing. This is a genuine, difficult sacrifice for him to make, but he's willing to do it if that's how he can show Amy he cares. That's the character growth we needed to come out their breakup, and that would have honestly been enough to show how their relationship has already changed.

Except Sheldon has an idea for a gift that could change things even more.

Intimacy in any form has been challenging for me, but I'd like to show her how important she is, and it feels like now might be the right time.

Sheldon

One of my favorite scenes is when Amy learns what Sheldon's birthday gift is going to be. Penny and Bernadette take Amy out for her birthday a day early, suggesting doing things like getting her a bikini wax or watching a dirty movie and answering any questions she might have.

These are good girlfriends to have, aren't they?

Amy, of course, doesn't understand their suggestions, so Penny and Bernadette spill the secret.

Her reaction is absolutely priceless, and the joy on her face (after the shock) is a beautiful contrast to so much of the miserable Amy we've seen recently.

It's a big step, especially for these two characters. When it's finally about to happen, Amy seems more nervous than he is. She's even shaking.

Amy: I'm just... really nervous.
Sheldon: Why?
Amy: I've been waiting for this for so long. I've just built it up in my head. I don't know what to expect.
Sheldon: Neither do I. But... we can find out together.

It's awkward, cute, sweet, sincere, and funny. Basically, the whole thing is perfect, especially with the parallel of the guys watching the Star Wars movie.

I mean really, the timing of this couldn't be more perfect.

I'll admit I was a little worried, too. The news that Sheldon and Amy would sleep together on this episode was already out there before I watched, and it could have gone terribly.

Much like Amy's quote about building it up in her head, it's been a long time coming for the audience to see this payoff, as well. Fortunately, it's handled in exactly the right way. The writing is smart, the acting is perfect, and everything comes together just as it should.

Other Thoughts:

  • Wil Wheaton also makes an appearance, acting as obnoxious as ever while dressed as Mr. Spock.
  • Penny's reaction to Sheldon's idea that he have "coitus" with Amy is beyond priceless.
  • There are a lot of great quotes from this episode, but this one pretty much says it all:

Then it's settled. Amy's birthday present will be my genitals.

Sheldon

What did you think of this episode of The Big Bang Theory? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Need to catch up on past episodes? You can always watch The Big Bang Theory online right here via TV Fanatic!

The Opening Night Excitation Review

Editor Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
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User Rating:

Rating: 3.4 / 5.0 (410 Votes)

Ashley Bissette Sumerel was a staff writer for TV Fanatic. She retired in September 2017. Follow her on Twitter and on Google+.

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The Big Bang Theory Season 9 Episode 11 Quotes

Intimacy in any form has been challenging for me, but I'd like to show her how important she is, and it feels like now might be the right time.

Sheldon

For future reference, if I want to watch mean girls, I'll stream on Netflix.

Sheldon