Jersey Shore Review: Going to Italia

I can’t believe that the Jersey Shore premiere was the highest rated episode in MTV’s history. It wasn’t even that great of an episode. I guess people were excited to see what kind of trouble our favorite social misfits could get into on another continent. That’s right; the Jersey Kids are going to The Motherland. Not Africa, but Italy. Where else could they have gone? The Shore, Miami? Been there, done that. Since they all wear their heritage proudly, why not go to Italy?

The gang’s all here, back in full effect.  A lot has happened since we last saw everyone. Ronnie and Sam seem to have regained some of their mental health and are both vowing to remain drama free this time around. Snooki is in a committed relationship and also pledges her fidelity while on vacation. The fellas are just The Fellas. They’re all pretty excited about going abroad, and they can’t wait to take Florence by storm. After they get their passports they race off to the airport in an effort to be the first group to arrive at their house and choose rooms. Vinnie is particularly excited about getting in touch with his roots. His Italian isn’t that great, but he speaks more fluently than anyone else.

When they arrive in Italy they’re filled with nervous energy and excitement. They fall into a quick G.T.L. routine by finding a gym and working out. Exercise is all well and good, but we know that what they are most excited about is “beating that beat up” at the nearest club.

They find the perfect place with the perfect music, and prepare to dance the night away. They even know how to say “no grenades” in Italian. While at the club, Mike reveals that he and Snooki hooked up back home while she had a boyfriend. He’s acting like he legitimately has interest in her beyond just hooking up. Ronnie doesn’t want to hear any of it and thinks Mike should just leave Snooki alone. He’s pawing at her uncontrollably, which is disgusting. Similarly gross is what’s going on between Deena and Pauly. She’s always had a crush on him and finally she gets to make out with him. Pauly looks like there is nothing he’d rather do less than kiss Deena. Awkward!

Even with non-scripted TV, I guess it takes a while to get rolling. This was a ho-hum episode, but I expect the fireworks to go off shortly.

Best of the episode: The guys trying to pick up chicks and failing miserably due to the language barrier.

Worst of the episode: Deena and Pauly’s sloppy kiss.

What to watch for next: Sam & Ronnie maintaining civility

For another opinion on this week’s episode, check out Ciao, Italia! The Guidos and Guidettes Invade the Boot by Stephanie Jaar.

Jersey Shore: Season 4, Episode 1: “Going to Italia” (original air date August 4, 2011)

Jersey Shore airs Thursdays at 10/9c on MTV.

Images courtesy of MTV.