Sometimes I think the writers of this show go too far. Marie's character steps over the line so many times, and makes Debra look like an idiot too many times anymore to be funny. It also makes Ray look like a moron when he should tell his mother to just Shut Up. Time and time again, the writers use this element as the main focus of the show... A little is fine, but they seem to use it as a crutch anymore.

In this episode episode, Debra is throwing a shower for Amy, and when Marie tries to take over, Debra gets drunk. The show goes through the process of showing what happens to you when you get in your car after drinking (although Debra does not drive anywhere)...and so on, but Marie makes a big deal out of Debra for being a alcoholic (wouldn't she have figured this out a long time ago?).

I get very tired of the way they have the character of Marie being overly rude at times, and no one stopping her. This isn't comedy. I love the shows that focus more on Raymond and Robert than anything. Like I said before, the writers seem to fall-back on this tired old way of writing when they can't figure out another story line...

I agree. I've always loved the show, but this past year or two, I find I haven't been enjoying it very much. It seems the characters of Marie, Frank, and Ray have become very mean-spirited, cartoonish and one-dimensional, they use the same tired storylines over and over again, and the show itself just doesn't seem too likeable and funny anymore. Robert, Amy, and sometimes Debra are the only characters worth watching now, IMHO.

My favorite moment from tonight's episode: Robert sees Debra in the cell and says, "She finally did it. She killed Ma!" :lol: :lol: :lol:

I completely agree with you. The shows are mean-spirited, cartoonish and one-dimensional. I am glad I am not the only one who feels this way....

That was funny when Robert said that about Debra...And who could blame her. It was about the only thing funny in this episode.

Also, I always cringe when they have Marie being a total jerk to Debra while the kids are in the room....I am sure they understand it is just acting, but I do not think children should be exposed to that sort of behavior under any circumstances. However, I don't recall if they were around in this show or not.

I also found it offensive how Marie handled the whole drinking issue anyway. I am not an alcoholic, however, I would be totally offended (I know I was) how Marie went around pouring out the booze and grabbing whatever it was she grabbed from Debra at the end. People struggle with alcohol problems, and I hate to see a show like this make fun of the situation. It may be time for Ray Romano to clean house with his writing staff because this stuff isn't funny anymore. The writers have established the fact that Debra can't cook, clean or do anything right. Time to move on.

I think my favorite episode this year was the one where Robert proposed to Amy. How handsome he looked in his dress uniform. And how sad was the story when he asked Amy's parent's for permission to marry their daughter, only to be turned down. My heart broke for both of them. The writers need to look deep within and come up with more episodes like this. I think if I hear Marie take one more pot-shot about Debra's cooking (or clean her refrigerator) I am going to quit watching the show altogether...

I agree. The constant ganging up on Debra is tough to watch. It plays into the old stereotype of the wicked mother-in-law. Marie used to be more subtle and coy in her jabs at Debra. Now she goes straight for the jugular.
I would give my husband his walking papers pronto if he allowed his mother, or anyone for that matter, to insult me.
As much as I like the character of Debra, at times she can be a real grouch, especially to Ray.
The show needs to tone down. With all the yelling, it's starting to sound like All In The Family.

I sometimes wish that both Debra and Marie were put into an institution and the focus was only on Robert, Amy, and Frank.
BTW, I think it's really sad that Peter Boyle's character has been reduced to almost nothing this season.

I agree with all of you. I was looking forward to seeing the show last night and it was a let-down. Instead of laughing, I was getting angry and ticked off, by the minute.
If you look back on the earlier seasons, it was more light hearted and fun. Now the characters are turning too realistic and nasty. I wouldnt be a bit surpised to learn years from now, that all the actors didn't get along, and fought and bickered amonst themselves.

Very interesting thoughts from everyone...And they are exactly what I was thinking...

I hope they shape up or this show is going to be history...If we see this, why can't the network? Or Ray Romano? I hope he's not behind these poorly written episodes or the show really is doomed..