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Announcement: Short-content feeds

Phillip Winn — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EDT

Sunday, August 26, 2007, marks the switch of all Blogcritics.org article feeds from full-content to short-content. This is the result of several converging factors, and is unfortunately a permanent decision (as permanent as any decision can be on the web, that is). We are aware of all of the reasons that this is a Bad Idea, and we are aware that some of you will be quite upset about having to click on something to read the free content, and we're sorry. Unfortunately, despite great effort, full-content feeds are not currently economically viable. Two other factors are involved: full-content feeds have resulted in an unprecedented level of content theft, with BC content appearing on many websites, usually spam sites, without attribution or permission. This duplicate content causes a cascading set of problems, not the least of which is that search engines generally aren't favorable to duplicate content, and don't always guess correctly. Finally, our RSS advertising partner is strongly in favor of short-content feeds. We hope that you'll continue to subscribe to BC via RSS, and when an article grabs your eye, it's only a click away, still free on the BC website. Thank you for your understanding.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Trial of the Century"

NancyGail — Fri, 1 Jun 2007 09:37:52 EDT

After two brothers are arrested for murder, Alan Shore (James Spader) and Denny Crane (William Shatner) meet with them to discuss the case. Alan says they really need to consider a plea bargain. However, both want a trial. The boys' mother, Dorothy Scanlon (Lisa Waltz, Yours, Mine and Ours) thinks there is a road to acquittal. She is willing to plead guilty. When Alan points out Dorothy told the police about a dentist appointment, she blurts out she was lying. Alan does not believe her. The Honorable Phyllis Tamber (Amy Aquino, ER) wants Denny replaced with a new lawyer so the defendants have a better chance. When she and Alan are alone, he promises he and Denny will defend with all they have. The judge firmly replies Alan needs to keep his word. After a couple of long shot defenses fail; Alan and Denny get a new plan. They allow their clients to testify. Each promptly accuses the other of acting alone. The jury is in disbelief, but it is hard to prove they acted together to commit murder.Between the closing arguments of Alan, Denny, and ADA Taryn Campbell (Aisha Tyler, Ghost Whisperer), the jury could rule either way. Denny tells Alan he wants to remain undefeated. What would ultimately stick in Denny's craw, however, is losing while Alan wins. The firm's rainmaker assures him it won't happen. When the verdict returns, both defendants are declared not guilty.At the firm, Jerry Espenson (Christian Clemenson) takes on the case of a woman who lost $80,000 by gambling. She says she has an addiction, and so should get her money back. Jerry asks Clarence Hall (Gary Anthony Williams), Alan's assistant, for help. When asked, Alan gives Clarence the number of a woman who worked in the gaming industry. He should have mentioned she only speaks Russian.Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) is none too happy about the case, and says to take any offer given. She sits in the conference room while they try working out a deal. Jerry resorts to his devil-may-care persona and gives opposing counsel proof of their dirty tricks to make people lose money. When the offer comes back, it is non-negotiable. All three defenders are amazed to find it is for $225,000. Afterwards, Jerry and Clarence are ecstatic at the outcome. In his glee, Jerry manages to pry his right hand off his thigh in order to shake hands with Clarence.Watching the spectacle are Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois), Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer), and Brad Chase (Mark Valley). Paul, in the understatement of the year, notes the mediation went well. Brad asks Claire if Clarence hops in a joyful embrace with her like he does with Jerry. It's payback for Claire's wondering aloud if Brad is indeed the father of Denise's baby. Paul murmurs his displeasure, but nothing further.For a season finale, this wasn't quite up to usual standards. Alan and Denny's case reminded me of Jeffery Coho's first ("New Kids on the Block"). It even added Gracie Jane in a voiceover declaring it the trial of the century! Here's the difference - Jeffrey's client was truly not guilty ("The Verdict"). Hearing who really did it blew me away since the possibility was barely mentioned. Who could have committed murder other than the brothers in this case? Nobody from the way things were presented. I also got the impression Alan and Denny completely ignored the rule on perjury.Boston Legal has gone through some cast changes over three seasons. This time around, Jeffrey Coho resigned, although Craig Bierko is supposed to have a show for fall. Mark Valley supposedly also has a show of his own, although the jury is still out on its future. So who does that leave? Let's see, Alan, Denny, Paul, Shirley. Denise may be on maternity leave, so perhaps a few episodes in the first month or so without Julie Bowen. Claire, Clarence, Jerry and Bethany to round things out. Same old, same old.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Duck and Cover"

NancyGail — Tue, 22 May 2007 18:55:38 EDT

When Alan Shore (James Spader) walks in Denny Crane's (William Shatner) office, the large silver object on the desk draws his attention. Denny has borrowed the Stanley Cup for a day. Before Denny can etch his name on the shiny trophy, Alan reminds him they have an important appointment. The wedding day of Brad Chase (Mark Valley) and Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen) has arrived. Before all are seated, Father McClinton (Michael Gross "Family Ties") finds Alan and mentions he may soon need his legal advice. Before long, the dilemma is revealed.After federal agents burst through the doors, ICE Agent Daniel Foster (Jim Holmes "Judging Amy") tells Brad that McClinton is wanted for harboring illegal aliens. The mother will be deported despite her child being born in the U.S. Once McClinton is arrested, Alan heads to court. The prosecutor has a plea bargain - the government will give the woman a green card if she will testify against the priest. She decides to take it. The verdict is for the prosecution. Alan plans to appeal.Denise goes into labor right before the wedding, and Brad is at the hospital. He wants them to be married prior to the child's birth. He calls Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer) and asks her to find a clergy person. As it turns out, Judge Robert Sanders (Shelley Berman, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Meet The Fockers) is being treated for gout. A fast repeat of vows, and Brad and Denise are married. Just in time, too, because Denise gives birth almost immediately. She asks Brad if their daughter looks like Jeffrey Coho, a former colleague. When she sees the look on his face, she says she is only teasing. Jerry Espenson (Christian Clemenson) has a new case assigned by Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen). Allison Lovejoy (Kali Rocha, Meet The Parents, Meet The Fockers) was kicked out of her apartment for violating the no pets rule. She says her duck is an assistance animal to cope with panic attacks.The confrontation between the landlord and the other two is tense, but Jerry uses his legal abilities to find building violations. He convinces the landlord his best option is letting the duck stay. When the duck later dies, Jerry's client is heartbroken.Shirley comes to Denny and says the veterinarian thinks the animal died from a heart attack, most likely after Denny fired a gun in the room. She says she plans to let him go if he continues to behave unprofessionally. On the balcony, Alan and Denny share scotch from the Stanley cup, and later knock it off the balcony. Oops! They move away before anyone sees them.I realize there are three founding partners at the firm, in other words, those people who started it all. Edwin Poole is in the hospital being treated for a mental breakdown. Denny is somewhat odd, but his mind is reasonably sharp. Yet Shirley can tell him she plans to fire him? The last time the firm tried firing a partner, Brad appealed and stayed ("Brotherly Love"). Denise's Coho comment opens up a new possibility. She never showed Brad paperwork to indicate he was the biological father, just told him so. He believed her without proof. For a lawyer, this speaks to due diligence.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Guantanamo By The Bay"

NancyGail — Mon, 14 May 2007 11:28:56 EDT

At any large business, there is constant flux. This is especially true in a law firm.When Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) starts her day, she is in for a shock. A former employee, Jerry Espenson (Christian Clemenson), wants his job back. Jerry has a history of instability which makes Shirley question why he is even considering the possibility. There are some things which are his fault -- Jerry once held a knife to Shirley's throat after being passed over for partnership ("The Cancer Man Can"). He explains he has turned into someone he doesn't recognize. As an employee of CP&S, he fits right in among other 'unique’ personalities. After a persuasive argument, Shirley agrees to see what she can do. However, she does not promise anything. Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) reluctantly says okay, but Shirley knows there is one critical stamp of approval left.Denny Crane (William Shatner) is adamant about not having Jerry back. The reason has more to do with Alan Shore (James Spader) than anything else. Denny selfishly wants Alan to himself as a friend, and refuses to share. Jerry must let Denny borrow his inflatable doll in order to be allowed back. In a show of generosity, Denny lends Jerry 'Shirley Schmidto', Denny's inflatable sex toy. The image is disturbing, but at least Shirley and Jerry are not having sex.On the law front, Alan takes on a case of a British citizen who was detained at Guantanamo Bay because the government believed he had links to terrorism. Denny's suspicion the man could be a Communist propels Alan into court. The judge (Bernadette Peters) is tough, but suggests if Alan takes off his pants, she might rule in his favor. Due to Alan's new relationship with Gloria Weldon (Gail O'Grady, NYPD Blue), he now has a conflict. He remains true to his significant other, and does not sleep with someone else just because he could. When it comes time for closing arguments, Alan and opposing counsel (Mitch Pileggi, The X Files) are both masterful. In the end, the case is still open. I got confused at this point. Alan asked for the case to be dropped. The judge refused. Technically, this should mean Alan lost. So why is his client grateful? The warning of potential future action was necessary, and this case could come up sometime down the road.Speaking of warning, Denny decides to push his luck with the federal judge. When he leaves her office, his briefcase is left behind. Denny returns, sans pants. The tactic doesn't work, and Denny is ordered out quickly.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Tea and Sympathy"

NancyGail — Fri, 4 May 2007 18:05:49 EDT

When Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) enters the office of Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen), he notices something is amiss. She and Brad Chase (Mark Valley) are having a disagreement of some sort. Paul discreetly leaves, but Denise later tells him what happened. Brad, a former Marine, wants to have a military wedding. Even though Denise is proud of his service, she knows her family would not be keen on the idea. Out of all suggestions, she is most uncomfortable with a full color guard in attendance.When Paul talks to Brad, it seems the younger partner expects his future wife to read his mind as to his wishes. Paul strongly suggests communication is key to a relationship, and Brad should not be getting married if he can't explain his side of the story. Later, Brad does. After Brad's father returned from Vietnam, he was not given a hero's welcome. Brad does not want people to forget about the military work in Iraq. He simply wants respect for the military brought out whenever possible. Denise does not give him an answer, but thinks it over.On the legal front, Alan Shore (James Spader) helps Judge Gloria Weldon (Gail O'Grady, in a guest star role) with an unusual narcotics possession charge. Alan knows going to court is a likely loss. He goes to see the District Attorney (Currie Graham), and lays out the situation. The sole testimony is from a man whose mental state is fragile. Plus, the DA's boss, the Attorney General, was once involved with Gloria. Alan points out nothing about this case will help the DA's run for re-election. The DA drops the charges.Gloria is grateful, but Alan surprises her with his payment request. He wants to take her to dinner, with a kiss at the door on their third date. This is terribly tame for Mr. Shore, but this time he is more interested in dating than sex. Alan then must stop Denny Crane (William Shatner) from hitting on Gloria. They come to an agreement -- Alan will stay away from Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) if Denny stays away from Gloria. Only time will tell if the arrangement holds out.Shirley and Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer) take on the case of a man who was spontaneously cured of HIV. He now wants to market his blood to a pharmaceutical company and reap the benefits. Of course, any book deal would be welcome. There is only one hitch -- the internist who was monitoring his health got a patent on his DNA. Going to court is the only solution. After the defendant takes the stand in his own defense, he only makes things worse. The judge rules accordingly, and the law firm suffers a loss.Unfortunately, the day brings a double loss after Clarence Hall (Gary Anthony Williams) is hired by a woman kicked out of a sorority for being socially awkward. Clarence tries to settle out of court, but opposing counsel is Jerry Espenson (Emmy Winner Christian Clemenson). Alan sneaks in the back door of the courtroom, and watches his assistant go to battle against a friend. They both rise to the challenge of closing arguments, but the judge rules in Jerry's favor.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Guise 'n Dolls"

NancyGail — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 10:43:00 EDT

Say what you will about Alan Shore (James Spader), he is good at his job and honest with clients. When Kaye Kent (Kate Hodge, Working) comes to him wanting help, there is an immediate problem. She wants a certain line of dolls removed from store shelves as they are too racy for young children. Alan knows he has little chance of winning, but agrees to talk to the lawyer representing the store. Unfortunately, this turns out to be Jerry Espenson (Emmy Winner Christian Clemenson). The two attorneys are estranged after Alan used intimidation tactics to throw Jerry off balance during a court case ("The Good Lawyer"). Making amends is out of the question for Jerry, who has turned into an even more obnoxious version of Alan. They end up going to court, but the bad day gets worse considering Judge Gloria Weldon (Gail O'Grady, NYPD Blue) is someone Alan slept with. Jerry implies he knows all about it, but thinks the judge can remain impartial. To Alan's dismay, she stays on the bench.Back at the firm, Clarence Hall (Gary Anthony Williams), Alan's assistant, tells Alan he needs to be on his toes and not let Jerry win. Alan takes the message to heart and heads back to court. He presents a closing argument with his usual verbosity. Jerry is next, but reverts to "Hands", which helps tremendously. The argument is simple, but effective. From the bench, the judge tells Alan he has lost. Jerry and Alan quickly renew their friendship.Denny Crane (William Shatner) gets down to the business of law when Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois), one of the firm's managing partners, tells him a potential new associate has arrived for an interview. Paul is concerned since Denny has a habit of speaking his mind, no matter how politically incorrect. Denny reminds Paul whose name is on the door, and handles the interview himself. The resulting discussion turns political but Kevin Givens (Jaleel White, Family Matters) holds his own. He declares he does not want his voting preferences to be the reason he is hired. Denny is impressed, but later makes a racial comment which throws the firm into a tailspin. Paul and Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) confront Denny, but they are not prepared for the media backlash. It's not unreasonable to think Kevin called the press himself in order to embarrass the firm into hiring him. Shirley calls her own press conference and defends Denny. In the back of the crowd, the founding partner can be seen listening while wearing a very bad disguise. Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen) and Brad Chase (Mark Valley) tell Shirley they are planning to get married. When she realizes they are serious, she does her best to hide her shock. This does not fool Denise, and she later asks for clarification. Shirley says while Denise loves Brad enough to have his baby, she does not love him enough to get married. Denise is offended, but she takes her friend's words to heart and considers her choice.She mentions the conversation to Brad without giving away the source of the "rumor". She declares her love for her fiance and will be thrilled to be his wife. Brad is touched, and believes this is the nicest thing anyone has ever said to him. Once again, Boston Legal has decided to make a political statement within the course of an episode. While they have women in positions of power, why did they make their interviewee black? If they really wanted to celebrate diversity, they should go for someone of another ethnicity altogether. Esai Morales or Penelope Cruz would be my suggestions. Jerry was much better in court this time, but seeing him go against Alan was hard to watch. Sometime, though, I would like to see Jeffrey Coho return as opposing counsel. Talk about delicious!

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Brotherly Love"

NancyGail — Tue, 17 Apr 2007 12:39:50 EDT

If there were a lawyer who could win even in the worst of circumstances, it would have to be Alan Shore (James Spader). Sticky cases are his specialty, and he always gives it his best shot no matter how much of an uphill battle he faces. When he gets his latest case, though, the complexities are a little higher. Taking on a murder case is the least of Alan's problems. The man Alan must try and defend is accused of trying to cover up a murder his brother committed. He admits he did it, but Alan's closing argument results, as usual, in an acquittal. Denny Crane (William Shatner) takes on the role of second chair, which proves to be interesting in and of itself. The two are a study in contrasts, especially when it comes to law. Alan may have a bag of tricks, but at least he knows when the stakes require his full attention. He also respects the law enough to not cross the line, too far. Although he could have told the district attorney his client murdered her fiancee, he would be breaking a confidence. In law, privilege means nobody else is supposed to know what a client tells the attorney. Cases are meant to be won or lost by the evidence alone. Renata was convicted for the murder she committed; Alan forced Renata to take a plea deal by showing her he was willing to lose his license to uphold justice ("The Bride Wore Blood"). Denny has seen his most effective days as a lawyer go by. Still, the pair together are fun to watch. Back at the firm, a battle is taking place. Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) brings a document around which he wants everyone to sign. The people he wants most to sign are the ones who are dating another firm employee. Should a pair break up, Paul wants to avoid a lawsuit for sexual harassment.Despite being standard procedure for business these days, Brad Chase (Mark Valley) refuses. He thinks the idea is "dumb", which does not sit well with the managing partner. Neither is about to give in, but Paul has the option to fire Brad if he doesn't sign. Brad doesn't, so Paul does, but the situation is not over.Brad goes to Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) and asks if Paul has the authority to fire him. He suggests he can bring a lawsuit, although not the one Paul is trying to prevent. Brad plans to sue for wrongful termination. However, he is merely telling Shirley so she can be prepared.Brad decides to file an appeal with all the partners. Fortunately, they agree he should remain with the firm. When Brad asks Shirley if she would have fired him, she says yes. I seem to recall Denny nearly firing Brad once, after he found out Brad tried to bribe Bev Bridges into leaving Denny ("Too Much Information"). Shirley then told Brad that Denny could not act alone in the decision, despite Denny being one of the founding partners. Brad may not appear in court often, but his verbal patter is on a level with Alan's. Which reminds me, they need to appear together in court again sometime soon. On another front, Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer) spots her former assistant, Clarence Hall (Gary Anthony Williams) having a pleasant conversation with another woman. Since she and Clarence are in a relationship, Claire immediately decides she is being cheated on and dumps him.When Alan sees Clarice, Clarence's alter ego, at his assistant's desk, he knows something is wrong. Although Clarice refuses to talk, Alan gets the story out of Clarence. He goes to Claire and says she misinterpreted the circumstances. Claire realizes she was too hasty in her judgment, and takes Clarence back. This episode had multiple storylines, and one central theme. Brad not only stood up for himself, but stood his ground. It backfired, but the message was sent loud and clear. I have to wonder if Paul is going to have a heart attack one of these days. He spends so much time focusing on the firm, and the effort is clearly a strain.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Son of the Defender"

NancyGail — Sat, 7 Apr 2007 09:44:44 EDT

In Boston, one is bound to meet all sorts of people. When Alan Shore (James Spader) leaves his hotel room one morning, he overhears a loud argument. Being nosy, he goes to investigate. A surprise awaits. An acquaintance of his, Jenna, is being arrested for prostitution. Jenna's companion, a politician, is going to have a scandal on his hands. At court, Alan tries to plea bargain. When it fails, he tries to get the ADA removed from the case. The judge refuses, and the war of words lands Alan, his client, and the senator in jail for contempt. The ADA says the married senator should tell his wife, in person, what happened. Soon, the woman is brought to the jail.She responds to the matter with surprising calm. Even though their marriage had cooled off, she is more upset about her husband caught in the act. This exchange is painful both to the couple and to Alan and Jenna, who share the same cell.The charges are dropped, and Alan tells the shaken man not to let his wife give up on him. Although the man does not respond, he recognizes the truth of Alan's words.Back at the firm, Denny Crane (William Shatner) has a much more serious problem to deal with. Two men arrive, one wearing a bomb on his jacket. The man's mother was killed when he was a child. Denny and his father got the accused killer off fifty years ago, and the victim's son now wants revenge. When Denny realizes this is not a joke, he says he is not afraid to die. The man replies Denny will not die alone, as the bomb will be detonated. By the time the three run into Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) and Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen), Denny is also wearing a bomb. They go to the conference room where Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer), Brad Chase (Mark Valley), Clarence Hall (Gary Anthony Williams), and Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) are working on a civil suit between two pageant competitors. The man wants to try the case again, taking the role of the prosecutor. Denny acts as the defense attorney, but this is higher stakes. Everybody else has a part to play, except two. Brad is sent out of the room, along with Shirley, who is made the liaison between the hostage taker and police. When the SWAT team arrives, Brad offers to help. Being an ex-Marine gives him special skills. The team leader asks him to find a way in without alerting those in the conference room. It later occurs to Brad to crawl through the air vent and see if he can overhear. Shirley tries to stop him, but she doesn't have to. Brad manages to get stuck after getting his body halfway in. This bit was amusing, but did it have to continue to the end? In the conference room, it is revealed Denny and Daddy used a trick in their defense strategy. It was a legitimate method, but Denny remembers how at odds he and his father were over the case. The defendant refused to testify, which made the senior Crane firmly convinced of guilt. Denny knew their main concern should be an acquittal.As the court transcript is read aloud, their defendant, who got off decades ago, tells them what he could not say then. He was seen in the building, but not in the victim's apartment. Since he was there to visit a man, he was not about to take the stand. The 1950s were not as open about homosexuality as today. All "jurors" are sent out in the hall to make a decision. Bethany (Meredith Eaton-Gilden) is convinced of the accused's guilt. Denise argues vigorously for reasonable doubt. When everyone returns, they render a not guilty verdict. The hostage taker pulls out a gun and holds it to his head. Paul says killing them all won't help. The man walks out of the conference room, where SWAT moves in. Denny convinces the man to drop the weapon, and he is safely taken into custody without incident. On the balcony, Alan and Denny talk about what happened. Alan mentions his dad was never proud of him. Denny goes on about paternal pride, but later reveals his father disowned him. The shock and pain in Denny's voice is obvious.This powerful and clever episode of Boston Legal used clips from a television pilot, The Defender, William Shatner made as the reason for revenge. Another well-known actor, Ralph Bellamy, played the role of his father. Alan was in jail, so his verbal patter could not be used. Brad's role was virtually useless. I realize Mark Valley is a gifted comic actor, but lately he has been either non-existent or used for laughs. He's too good to be so underused. Claire never spoke during the entire episode. I liked seeing Paul and Denny as the voices of reason. When Paul gets upset, I have a hard time watching.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "The Bride Wore Blood"

NancyGail — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 17:37:33 EDT

Alan never walks away from a sticky case. However, when Renata Hill, (Megan Mullally, "Will and Grace"), runs up to Alan Shore (James Spader) in the courthouse, dress covered in blood, the bar is raised. Alan starts defending Renata on murder charges. There are more than a few problems. Renata supposedly passed out while her fiance was stabbed with a pair of scissors. Unfortunately, only the two of them were in the room.When the trial gets under way, Alan realizes there is more to his client's story. She never mentioned getting dumped by her fiance, for example. Seeds of suspicion start to form as Alan wonders what else Renata never told. It's time for the truth. Renata says she saw who the real killer was. Alan is treated to a story of fantastical proportions. Years before, Renata bought another woman's identity for $300,000. Worse yet, she is practising law without a license.Alan uses Clarence (Gary Anthony Williams) to find out if Renata is lying through her teeth. The story checks out to a point. When closing arguments take place, it is not the end of the story. ADA Christopher Palmer (William Russ, "Boy Meets World") says Renata is guilty as charged, case closed. Alan brings up the idea of another suspect, and has everybody watch the door to see the other person enter. When she doesn't, Alan tells the jury they have reasonable doubt. The ADA knows he must now plea bargain before the verdict returns in Alan's favor.Renata is surprised when Alan agrees to twelve years in prison. When they are alone, she asks why. He says he knows she did it. Alan tells her he can walk out and talk to the press, but he would be disbarred as privilege is sacrosanct in law. However, he would do it anyway. She accepts the deal.The ad for this episode said this was "heartstopping". Actually, another one ("The Verdict") showed clients are sometimes guilty even when acquitted. Even though Jeffrey Coho gave viewers a hint to the real killer early on, the truth only came out after Scott Little was found not guilty.Speaking of loss, Denny Crane (William Shatner) experiences one when Bethany (Meredith Eaton-Gilden) breaks up with him. She feels disrespect cannot be tolerated, especially when it comes to faith. This may be the breaking point beyond repair.Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer) gets a client on the day of trial. She was handed it with other cases, and she set it aside. She quickly demands Brad Chase (Mark Valley) turn over his jacket and tie so Jerome (Lovensky Jean-Baptiste) can look presentable in court. This had to be the best part of the show! Seeing Brad without his "uniform" gave him an air of vulnerability. It's nice to see his human side. I will say this, though, who picked out that shirt? I understand the idea was to make Brad seem uncomfortable, but those checks didn't look right. Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen), Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois), and Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen) are amused at Brad's discomfort. This is nothing compared to Claire's when she takes on ADA Warren Peters (Patrick Renna). He has come up against the firm before ("Shock and Oww....", "Gone") and not only wants to raise his standing in the DA's eyes, but wants to repay Claire for rejecting him.Unfortunately for Warren, Claire is better. She does not repudiate the charges, but rather focuses on what he left out. She warned him not to proceed, but he didn't listen. The judge agrees with her, and throws out the charges.Alan is back in court, which is good. Did he finally lose? Yes and no. He sent a former colleague to prison, but only after vowing to break confidence. What's happening with Brad? After all, he's an attorney! If not at trial, he could take on some mediation. Mr. Chase is too solid a character to go week after week without doing his job. Shirley has come back - was she on vacation?

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "The Good Lawyer"

NancyGail — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 12:38:49 EST

As an attorney, Alan Shore (James Spader) is known throughout Boston for his winning track record. However, limits are often tested. When a client calls requesting help, he finds cops outside her house. It appears the woman has abducted an art piece from a museum. Alan is an experienced trial attorney. Murder cases are harder and he has won each time. He doesn't realize the 'art' in question is actually her father. When he died, the woman's mother donated his body to an exhibit where people are preserved as living replicas of the human condition. During subsequent preliminary proceedings, Alan says he is prepared to try the case immediately. The judge agrees, and a time is set.There is only one problem. At Alan's office, Clarence Bell (Gary Anthony Williams), Alan's assistant, informs him he has a client waiting. Alan is not pleased, but he takes the case of a hospital therapist fired for talking to his clients about seeing UFOs. Opposing counsel is Jerry Espenson (Emmy winner Christian Clemenson), representing hospital management. The delight at meeting one another again ruffles the judge's feathers. They all agree Alan can question the person responsible for firing Alan's client.Why is one lawyer handling two cases at once? Oh yeah - because nobody else apparently wants to practice law. Back at the firm, Brad Chase (Mark Valley) is confronted in the break room by Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen) after she spots him kissing a gorgeous woman in the hallway. She somehow fails to notice Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) sitting nearby.Brad decides to find out the story behind the outburst. Denise tells him she feels humiliated he would get involved with another woman when she's having his baby. The real story is that she is scared of her circumstances. Brad asks her what exactly her values are. After he gets out of the way of her swinging fist, he reminds her she is alone by choice.One thought comes to mind here. If Denise does not want a relationship with Brad, she certainly isn't acting like it. They end up at couples therapy with Joanna, a woman who treated both Alan and Jerry for various issues. Under careful questioning, she gets Brad to state he wants whoever has his child to not work. It's also obvious he wants Donna Reed for a wife.Denise asks him later if he plans to 'bludgeon' her into having a relationship. He says he is actually asking for a chance with her, and their baby. She is going to have to think about that one. In court, Alan gets his art thief declared not guilty. The matter of whether or not the body will be buried has yet to be determined. Alan's trial of the UFO-seeing therapist is trickier. Jerry has been hanging around Alan for so long, he unconsciously picked up his friend's style. In court, the tactics Jerry employs give Alan pause. He tells Denny Crane (William Shatner) he could lose this time. The only way Alan can win is to resort to a form of dirty pool. He rattles Jerry enough so the Asperger's Syndrome attorney is too intimidated for summary arguments. Alan's plea agreement is accepted, but he realizes he might have gone too far. I have to say Jerry probably needed to be rattled. Every time he used a prop or made an offhand comment, he looked like a caricature of Alan. There are courtroom rules to be followed, which is why I thought the judge should have reprimanded him. However, perhaps this experience simply made Jerry a stronger person.Denny, meanwhile, is forced to attend temple with Bethany (Meredith Eaton-Gilden). Since the senior founding partner is of a different faith, it's awkward. After he falls asleep, two young boys aim spitballs at him. Denny aims one back and ends up hitting the rabbi. The faith leader finds a lawyer and the two march to Denny's office. As soon as Denny comments about his feelings on the Middle East, Bethany gets offended and says she "NEVER" wants to see him again. This isn't the first time she has uttered those words, and only time will tell whether she means them.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.

TV Review: Boston Legal - "Fat Burner"

NancyGail — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 11:23:59 EST

When Clarence Bell (Gary Anthony Williams) puts himself on the list of public defenders available to try a case, shockwaves echo all over Boston. For Mr. Bell, it's hearing he has a first-degree murder case on his hands. Luckily for him, Bethany Horowitz (Meredith Eaton-Gilden) agrees to be second chair if the need arises.Alan Shore (James Spader), Clarence's immediate boss, is shocked when he discovers Clarence wants to be more than his legal secretary. For some reason, Clarence neglected to mention to the judge this case is his first. Oops! The case is a felony, so it goes to criminal trial for starters. Unfortunately, the classification of crime puts it at the top of the list for worst offenses. Complicating matters is the issue of human trafficking.After Paul Lewiston (Rene Auberjonois) hears Clarence wants his client to plead temporary insanity, he nixes any idea of Clarence taking the case. Paul considers the ramifications too great if the firm suffers a loss. Later, he re-considers and offers help. I have to wonder why in the world Clarence didn't ask his old boss, Claire Simms (Constance Zimmer), for her expertise. It makes the most sense as Clarence feels more comfortable with her than anyone else in the office. Of course, they also have their relationship to think of. Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) is stunned when Jeffrey Coho (Craig Bierko) tenders his resignation, effective immediately. Equally aghast is Claire, who came to the bureau when Jeffrey did ("New Kids on the Block"). He tells her she seems to be happy and should stay.Brad Chase (Mark Valley) is more disappointed than angry at the news. He and Jeffrey have never gotten along, but they make excellent sparring partners. Brad apologizes for any part he may have had in the decision, but the problem lies with someone else.Denise Bauer (Julie Bowen) suspects, correctly, her having a baby with Brad doesn't help matters. In private, Jeffrey says it is the final humiliation for him, and adds he has never respected anyone who would agree to be 'friends with benefits'. It's said lightly, but the sting is clearly written on Denise's face.Shirley thinks there is more to the story, and finds Jeffrey in his Buzz Lightyear costume. He often uses it to help him deal with low blood sugar issues, but there's a complication. When Jeffrey and Brad got into a physical altercation at the last costume party ("Dumping Bella"), something got jammed and he cannot get the costume off. Shirley can't, either. Jeffrey tells her he wanted to be the father to Denise's baby since he was not around much for his own daughter after she was born. Shirley replies he should go ahead and walk out the way he is, holding his head up. Claire, Brad, and Denise are in the lobby when Jeffrey leaves. Shirley is there, too, sternly saying not to laugh. As Jeffrey says his final goodbyes, he mentions he will still be in Boston. Brad is gracious enough to shake hands, and Claire gets a kiss on the cheek from Jeffrey, since she is the one he will miss most of all.I wondered if someone would leave after Denise announced the results of the paternity test. I just thought it might be Brad. I'm glad Jeffrey questioned Denise directly. She never showed Brad any paperwork, which makes me question whether she told Brad the truth.Hopefully, the powers-that-be will see fit to bring Craig Bierko back sometime. He really is a talented actor, and seeing both Alan and Brad on edge while trying to deal with Jeffrey's verbal banter added new dimensions to this show. Back in Alan's lair, his legal expertise is needed after Denny Crane (William Shatner) is arrested for illegally trying to ship human fat overseas. It's not a bad concept, but DA Ginsberg (Currie Graham) has always had it in for the firm. He will do everything he can to make the charges stick. Going up against Alan makes him try even harder to win. In a rare moment of reality, Alan asks Denny if the founding partner considered the possibility of losing. Denny had, but he is not trying the case. Enough common sense prevailed for Denny to seek help. Naturally, Alan gets the not-guilty verdict.This had to have been the jury foreman's first time in court. Why else would he nearly forget to read the verdict? It took a glance from the judge (Howard Hesseman) to get things straightened out.Clarence gets off to a wobbly start in his own trial, but stroking Clarice's wig helps considerably. He is not stupid enough to wear it, but tucks it in his briefcase. Paul is surprised at how well the testimony goes, and suggests that Clarence handle the closing. He might have handled it himself, except Bethany points out he doesn't have 'pop'. Leave it to Bethany! I might have been a bit more delicate, but Paul is better at management than persuasion. This gives Gary Anthony Williams a chance to shine, and he pulls it off with quiet flair. The verdict is 'not guilty by reason of insanity'. Paul and Bethany are pleased at Clarence's success, and I have a feeling he might be in court more often. Perhaps Brad and Alan can give him a few more pointers.

NancyGail writes from her home in Georgia.