In May of 2009, Oscar Moralde embarked on a project for The Hypermodern: to watch the hit CW teen drama Gossip Girl through the lens of media and political-economic criticism. Presented via a chat log with Hypermodern editor George Ding are Oscar’s real-time reactions to the show.

Although edits have been made for clarity and some informational links have been added, the following is mostly raw and unaltered. References to characters and events from Oscar Moralde’s feature screenplay 2400 are made; also, for our Peruvian and Cambodian readers, joking references are made to the Shining Path and the Khmer Rouge. No offense was intended, and our sincerest apologies for any it might cause.

1.01 “Pilot” (tv.com) In the series premiere, Gossip Girl is busy spreading the news that “it girl” Serena van der Woodsen has returned to Manhattan after a mysterious and self-imposed exile to boarding school. Serena’s best friend, Blair Waldorf, has conflicted feelings about her friend’s return since she has enjoyed being the Queen Bee during Serena’s absence and might not be ready to relinquish her new position on the social ladder, not to mention the fact that she has always suspected there may be unspoken feelings between Serena and her longtime boyfriend, Nate Archibald.

1.02 “The Wild Brunch” (tv.com) It’s the day after the Kiss on the Lips party and Serena receives a cold reception from her former best friend, Blair, who finally knows the real reason Serena left for boarding school. Meanwhile, Serena and Dan make a date and Blair realizes that there may be something to gain by allowing Jenny into her elite inner circle.

1.03 “Poison Ivy” (tv.com) It’s Ivy week for the Upper East side teens of Constance Billiard and St. Judes and the visiting representatives arrival brings more than just college applications. Cut-throat rivalry is at it’s sharpest this week as the students compete for prestigious positions. Blair discovers a shocking but juicy secret about Serena and plots to drop the bomb at the best possible moment. Dan is sure that landing the coveted usher position with the Dartmouth rep will either make or break his future at the school. Unfortunately, it’s Nate who nabs the position, despite total disinterest in the school. Meanwhile, Jenny gets close to Serena’s younger brother Eric and Rufus asks Lily for a favor.

1.04 “Bad News Blair” (tv.com) Blair gets excited when her mother chooses her to be the new face of her clothing line. However, Blair’s happiness turns quickly into feelings of betrayal and jealousy when Serena takes her spotlight and Blair finds herself back in Serena’s shadow. Meanwhile, Serena and Dan remember once again that they come from two very different worlds. Also, Nate and Chuck do a boys weekend to blow off steam after Ivy Week ends.