How I Met Your Mother: All Halloween And Thanksgiving Episodes Ranked Worst To Best
2. The Slutty Pumpkin Returns
Slutty Pumpkin may have done a fair job of discussing the problematic nature of Ted's blind idealism, but the sequel episode pays off by actually showing the results. It's refreshing to see Ted lose a love interest not because of any wrongdoing or flaw on the part of either person, but because some relationships just don't work. It's a theme not explored nearly enough in a show that talks so much about destiny.
Katie Holmes feels surprisingly perfect for a role that feels like it goes just a little against type, and her chemistry with Josh Radnor lands precisely where it needs to land. Their chemistry is absent when meant to be, but their down-to-earth conversation about high expectations and the need to let go feels perfectly natural in its context.
Meanwhile, Barney suffers the reveal of his Canadian heritage, a highly satisfying twist that leads to a couple of great costume changes. It's also sadistically amusing to watch him ape Luke Skywalker with a Canadian flag sticking out of his jacket, right next to the ducky tie as if to further cement his humiliation.
We also get Barney's semi-random, 100% accurate impression of Ted's friend Punchy. Of all the great moments in this episode, that quick shoutout might be among the best for how perfectly it lands in context.