This was a really fun way to watch these three episodes! While I’ve seen them many times before, I’ve never stopped to think about them as a unit. I have no idea why LOL.
But I did see elements of a movie in the various story arcs. Specifically, the Brian/Justin relationship had that “finished” feeling about it in terms of knowing that them together is inevitable. As far as the Michael/Brian storyline, we get the clear message that Brian will never be more than a friend to Michael. And I really do think that Michael has a look of grudging recognition on his face at the end as he watches the inevitable pairing of Justin with his best friend. I also think the issue with Gus and how Mel and Lindsay are going to deal with Brian’s role in their lives had a settled feeling about it in the end.
Having said all that, I still felt very strong introductory elements within this episode arc that probably wouldn’t have taken as long to unfold had it been a true movie. But that’s the beauty of being able to see it both ways. It provides a lovely little glimpse into the future dynamics – like a roadmap of what we’ll be dealing with, while at the same time, giving us lots of detail about who these people are and how and why they relate to one another the way that they do. So, while watching 101-103 as a complete piece was fun and different for me, I’m really glad that it didn’t end there!