Did the 'Mom' Series Finale on CBS Fall Short of Fan Expectations?

Many viewers felt that the series finale of Mom, which aired on May 13, 2021, had a tone that resembled a typical episode rather than a grand finale. This sentiment is not uncommon among series that approach their conclusion in a way that may not align with every fan's expectations. This article explores the reasons behind the series finale's perceived lackluster response and its impact on fans.

Narrative Focus

One of the primary reasons many viewers felt the final episode felt like a regular episode is due to its narrative focus. The finale concentrated on typical themes of recovery and personal growth, which are also central to many episodes throughout the series. Fans expected a more dramatic or climactic conclusion, considering it was the last episode. This inconsistency can leave viewers feeling unsatisfied if they were looking for a more impactful finale.

Character Development

Another factor that contributed to the perceived lack of impact is the way the episode wrapped up character arcs. While the arcs were completed, they were done without major plot twists or significant reveals. Some viewers felt that these arcs should have been tackled in a more profound manner, befitting a series finale. The resolution of these arcs was consistent with the show's style but perhaps not as fitting for a finale in the eyes of some fans.

Tone and Humor

The blend of humor and heartfelt moments throughout the series continued into the finale. This consistency in tone and humor may have left some viewers feeling that the series finale didn't have the heightened stakes usually associated with series finales. The show's format seems to have created a comfortable niche for its audience, but this comfort also meant that the final episode may have lacked the emotional impact some fans were hoping for.

Final Thoughts from a Viewpoint

Writing a series finale that feels like a culmination yet doesn't disappoint is a delicate balance. Many viewers experienced this on May 13, 2021, with the 'Mom' finale. The writers' choices in crafting the episode were appreciated, but they were not what fans on the show's social media reacted to. Notably, Bonnie's speech struck a chord with many, and Wendy character’s last words added a poignant layer to the finale. However, the overall impact fell short for many.

It's important to acknowledge the diverse nature of fan reactions. While Bonnie's speech was touching and Wendy’s last words were appreciated, the storyline left many questions unanswered. Fans may have wanted to know more about the characters’ future, such as Violet and Christy's reconciliation, Roscoe's reunion with Wendy, and Baxter’s relationship with Candace. Moreover, the other characters, like Jill and Andy, were left with significant plot threads that fans found underdeveloped. Even characters like Chef Rudy and Tammy deserved more attention in the finale.

The final scenes, especially involving Jill, Andy, and Adam, felt rushed and unresolved. Jill's miscarriage and Andy's emotional journey were compelling, but the series didn't explore these themes in the depth that fans were hoping. Adam's storyline with cancer treatments and Jill's lack of knowledge were touchpoints that deserved more focus. Christy's absence from the finale, despite her pivotal role in the series, also added to the sense of a series ending without closure for all involved.

Conclusion

The 'Mom' series finale on CBS ultimately provided closure, but it may not have felt entirely satisfactory to all fans. The balance between personal growth and drama seemed off, and the consistent tone of humor and heartfelt moments made the finale feel like a series episode. While some viewers appreciated the subtlety, others were left wanting a more dramatic and emotionally charged conclusion.

In the end, it highlights how subjective the experience of a series finale can be. The expectations and emotional investment in the characters play a crucial role in how a fan perceives the finale. This divergence in opinion is a testament to the power and depth of the 'Mom' series, showcasing that even in its final moments, it continues to resonate with audiences in varied ways.