THE GOOD WIFE "Don't Fail"

Article originally written for Seat42F.

As soon as this week’s episode of THE GOOD WIFE opens on CBS with Alicia (Julianna Margulies) working on her memoirs, it’s clear that she isn’t ready for such a tedious, end-of-career task. Alicia is a lawyer, a do-gooder, restless and in need of a project. So when she stumbles upon a former client of hers, Brett Tatro (Dorian Missick, Southland), who needs assistance, though she does try to pawn him off on others at first, it’s no surprise that she ends up taking the case herself. She “Don’t Fail.”

THE GOOD WIFE is never one to grow stale, constantly changing up the structure of the characters’ lives in the series, but that doesn’t mean they don’t stay true to who they are. Alicia isn’t about to start a new career path, outside of the law, at this stage. She has her calling, what she’s meant to do, and despite major setbacks, she is going to find a way to do it. Even if her idea to do so may not be financially feasible, something Grace (Makenzie Vega) asks about and Alicia doesn’t have a good answer for.

This revelation comes to her when revisiting a story set in season one. The events of “Don’t Fail” are not recycled from the freshman run; the case has not been seen on screen before, it just takes place during that time period. This is a really poignant time to evoke the past, though, with Alicia feeling aimless and Kalinda (Archie Panjabi) gone. It’s with a certain amount of nostalgia that flashbacks show Alicia and Cary (Matt Czuchry) working for this client, and reminds both Alicia and the fans of the tone of those early days, which is long gone. Alicia thinks it’s time to get it back, at least sort of.

As usual, the courtroom is well-stocked with talent. You’re the Worst’s (an excellent FX sitcom) Aya Cash plays the naïve, young attorney who needs Alicia’s help to defend Brett. Kurt Fuller returns as cranky Judge Peter Dunaway, who hasn’t been seen since late 2013. The prosecutor is Matan Brody (Chris Butler), who appears much more frequently in past seasons than of late. These people make “Don’t Fail” a great episode as much as Alicia herself and what she’s going through.

I think Alicia is also nostalgic for her family, evidenced by the way she calls Zach (Graham Phillips) after hearing an old, taped conversation he has with Jackie (Mary Beth Peil), another recurring character whose frequency has majorly dropped off. But Alicia isn’t stuck in the past either, proven when she converts Zach’s room into her new office with nary a thought about him coming home, which of course he says he wants to do as soon as she has cleared the space. She is evaluating what she can get back and being happy with what she chooses to do now.

Will Alicia embark on this latest adventure alone? Well, she does ask Finn (Matthew Goode), the dispenser of the advice “Don’t Fail,” to join her. I don’t know if he will. He certainly likes Alicia and she is starting something he can get behind, so that leads me to believe he will accept. But he’s also practical and already has a job. It’s too bad Cary is in no position to leave the firm, as it’s awesome to see him pitch in and help Alicia, sharing a glass of wine together. But I don’t think he’d join a new startup with Alicia again so soon. And Grace offers to intern for her, but Alicia doesn’t jump at her daughter’s words, so I don’t know if that’ll happen.

My wish, and this is purely a wish, with no basis in any inside information, is that Cary and Diane (Christine Baranski) will acquire Alicia’s little office in the near future as a pro bono segment of their own organization, which solves everyone’s problems. It gives the firm a positive win that might even overcome R.D.’s objections to having Alicia there, helping repair the image caused by the leaked emails, and it means Alicia wouldn’t have to worry about money. This twist would make sense to come about mid-season next year, but we’ll see. I’m no fortune teller, and I’m sure whatever happens is something the writers are deciding or have already decided independent of whatever anyone says on the internet.

“Don’t Fail” is an inspiring hour that gets back to the roots of THE GOOD WIFE and the character of Alicia. It ends one chapter and begins another, while acknowledging that these people do not exist in a vacuum and cannot separate their lives into actual, stand-alone chapters. This is far from the procedural format that dominates so many broadcast networks, especially CBS, and truly has a special place in the television landscape.

THE GOOD WIFE’s season sixth season finale airs next Sunday at 9 p.m. ET and will feature the return and final appearance (at least as a main cast member) of Kalinda!

Brilliant "Mind's" Behind THE GOOD WIFE

Article first published as THE GOOD WIFE Review Season 6 Episode 14 Mind's Eye on Seat42F.

This week’s episode of THE GOOD WIFE on CBS, entitled “Mind’s Eye,” is really great, and also very different than any other episode of the series, if not of television in general. A large portion of the hour plays out in Alicia’s (Julianna Margulies) imagination, rather than in reality. This is not a fantasy in the traditional sense, though, nor a musical extravaganza. Instead, the series takes us through her thought process on several issues, sometimes interconnecting, showing possibilities play out and how she comes to the conclusions and decisions that she comes to.

First off, Alicia is preparing for an interview to secure a major endorsement that could win her the State’s Attorney election. Prady (David Hyde Pierce) does very well with his own attempt, making her nervous. She has reason to be concerned. What if they ask about her son, Zach’s (Graham Phillips), abortion? What is they ask her is she’s aware her PAC is being funded by drug kingpin Lemond Bishop (Mike Colter)? Should Alicia tell the truth, or play the politician?

Secondly, Louis Canning (Michael J. Fox) is still suing the firm and threatening to publicly smear Alicia just before the election. Canning is smart, likely having his former partner, David Lee (Zach Grenier), in his pocket. He also milks his health issues for all they’re worth. But when he does turn out to be very sick, Alicia rushes to the hospital, putting her compassion for a human being ahead of her rocky relationship with the jerk of a man.

Both of these intersect, giving her ideas for the other. They are not obviously related, but the mind is good at making connections. People are hard wired to find patterns, and the smartest ones, like Alicia, use that to their advantage. Her jumping back and forth from one notepad to the next, scribbling ideas as they come, is impressive to watch and inspiring. This isn’t just an experimental, cool look into human psychology, but also gives us a deeper insight into a particular beloved character.

This being The Good Wife, romance does come into play in “Mind’s Eye.” Alicia has been unable to move on from Will (Josh Charles), although she has two possible suitors at present, Finn Palmer (Matthew Goode) and Johnny Elfman (Steven Pasquale). This episode has her find a way to let go of Will, finally opening herself up to new possibilities. It’s time, and I’m glad to see Alicia hasn’t given up on finding love.

Charles doesn’t actually appear as Will in the episode, his appearances shrouded in shadow, though the actor’s voice is clear. This might be because of a scheduling conflict, but I think it works out rather well as it’s done. Will is fading, becoming an indistinct memory, and she doesn’t need to have him firmly locked in her mind.

There are also a ton of little, juicy tidbits tossed into “Mind’s Eye.” Alicia imagines Kalinda (Archie Panjabi) and Peter (Chris Noth) together, proving she’s never forgiven her former friend and husband. She sees Richard Dawkins (Michael Siberry) and Pastor Easton (Gbenga Akinnagbe) as she struggles with religion and morality. Sometimes the people in her head turn and talk to her. And, as has become frequent, Marissa (Sarah Steele) pops in to give terrific one-liners and insights. She should be locked into the cast full-time immediately.

Throughout “Mind’s Eye,” Alicia is having trouble finding her voice, both figuratively and literally. She doesn’t know what she wants to do. But at the conclusion, when she makes up her mind, her voice comes back. She compromises with herself and decides what she thinks is best, which often isn’t clear-cut in complex, adult decisions. It’s quite a clever little metaphor that adds to the enjoyment of the immensely enjoyable piece.

Not a lot happens in “Mind’s Eye,” yet it’s one of my favorite episodes of THE GOOD WIFE this season. It shows once again how the series is willing to take chances and make bold choices. This series is on the bubble this year, but I desperately hope it is renewed because it is probably the best show on the broadcast networks, certainly one of the most original, and every week I anticipate it greatly.

The Good Wife airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.

No "Oppo" For THE GOOD WIFE

Article first published as THE GOOD WIFE Review Season 6 Episode 4 Oppo Research on Seat42F.

This week’s episode of CBS’s THE GOOD WIFE, “Oppo Research,” puts the recent legal drama on hiatus as the focus shifts to Alicia’s (Julianna Margulies) campaign for State’s Attorney. That’s right, she’s running, and Eli (Alan Cumming) sets her up with a campaign manager named Johnny Elfman (Steven Pasquale, Rescue Me). Together, the three begin laying out what Alicia’s campaign will look like, starting with the bad stuff, which is much more of a problem than Alicia, or perhaps the viewer, expects.

There are plenty of people in Alicia’s life that could spell trouble for her. Her mother, Veronica (Stockard Channing), isn’t the most put-together woman, and there is video of her spanking a (horrible, misbehaving) child. Alicia’s husband, Peter (Chris Noth), hasn’t always been faithful, and because their separation isn’t public, it’s quite likely that he is sleeping with someone and it will look like he’s cheating. We learn in “Oppo Research” he isn’t fooling around with his slutty intern, whom Eli takes great joy in firing, but Peter could be sleeping with the intern’s mother. These two will probably flare up with more issues as the story unfolds.

Worse is Alicia’s brother, Owen (Dallas Roberts), who is seeing a married bareback gay porn star. Alicia doesn’t confront Owen about this in a mean way; instead, she is worried about his safety. But even raising the issue causes him to storm out. It’s really a shame that this should come between them, though Owen would have a right to be mad at Alicia for dragging him into the public eye without his consent. Let’s hope they work it out.

She also has a big problem with her son, Zach (Graham Phillips), who she learns had a secret abortion. Alicia is so furious at Zach that she essentially cuts him off, just asking him to support her in the media’s eye. We’ve never seen Alicia like this, though her anger is understandable, her son having been lying to her for quite awhile. Can she repair her relationship with Zach? He’s one with a track record of being trouble while thinking he’s doing the right thing, righteous stupidity. Combined with the now-chilly relationship, this can’t be good.

Alicia herself is by and large a good person. That’s why the name of the show is THE GOOD WIFE, and when considering her personally, there isn’t much dirt to dig up. She is moral, and while some may have a problem with her atheist leanings (a real life political landmine that shouldn’t be, in my opinion, being one myself), she does the right thing the vast majority of the time. Her slip ups are minor and average.

But even she does not escape the smear. Before even announces she’s entering the race, she is already set up for a DUI test (which she passes easily) in full front of the public eye, and stories about her alcoholism (which isn’t true; she isn’t an alcoholic) are spread. This goes to show that even someone as good as Alicia is at risk of being torn down during a campaign, a regrettable fact that only paints her opponent in a more negative light, which is saying something, since he’s already known to be total scum; the main reason Alicia is getting into politics is to keep him out of a position he doesn’t deserve.

The question I’m left wondering, and I’m sure it’s intentionally painted that way, is, is Finn (Matthew Goode) betraying Alicia? She is meeting him for a drink just before she is pulled over. Technically, he works for her opponent. While he claims that he wishes her nothing but the best and that their fights in court are merely a part of the job, what if he’s turned?

Now, I don’t really think that, of course, but you can be sure the thought will cross Alicia’s mind, and if not hers, than Elfman’s. This makes Finn look very bad. Thus far, Finn is painted only as a good guy on THE GOOD WIFE, and if he ends up being crooked, I will be very surprised. But the implication may be enough to stir up trouble.

And, of course, there’s Lemond Bishop (Mike Colter), a drug dealer that Alicia represents. She tried to fire him, and once he finds out why, he not only lets her, but forms a secret PAC to support her. Alicia has never liked Lemond and it’s likely she sees the campaign as a good excuse to be rid of him once and for her. His thwarting of her efforts, tying her even more firmly to him, will come back to hurt her in the end. It’s not Alicia’s fault she’s in this position, exactly, but I don’t see any way for her to come out of it smelling good.

So, with all of this in mind, should she run? It’s a little late to ask that, since she’s pulled the trigger, but I’m more divided now than ever. One wants to see her move up in life, and the arc ramped up on “Oppo Research” gives the show new ways to grow, exploring fresh plot avenues. Unfortunately, this is also a way more cruel game than Alicia is used to playing and I worry what might happen to her in the heat of battle. One thing is for sure, this will not be a boring year.

THE GOOD WIFE airs Sunday evenings on CBS around 9 p.m. ET. Air times may vary based on sports run-overs.

"Weird" GOOD WIFE is Very Good

Article first published as TV Review: 'The Good Wife' - 'A Weird Year' on Blogcritics.

A lot happens in The Good Wife‘s season finale, “A Weird Year,” which aired this week on CBS. I say this even by the standards of this particular series, which has had its best run yet, creatively speaking, with dynamic changes among all the characters and their relationships over the last nine months. The season begins with Alicia (Julianna Margulies) and Cary (Matt Czuchry) breaking off from Lockhart/Gardner to form their own firm, continues through the battles between the two groups, undergoes a jarring reset after the death of Will Gardner (Josh Charles), and ends with the futures of most of the players up in the air. What a heck of a ride! “A Weird Year” indeed.

As “A Weird Year” opens, Diane (Christine Baranski) is being challenged for control of the firm she and Will built by Louis Canning (Michael J. Fox), the new senior partner, and David Lee (Zach Grenier). This doesn’t seem fair at all, an interloper coming in and teaming up with a long-time partner to oust Diane while she’s still trying to get her bearings back, but that’s what makes Louis and David such vicious villains. Normally, Diane would be up to the challenge of fending them off, especially because she’d have Will in her corner. But isolated in the office and nearly alone, save Kalinda (Archie Panjabi), who is tough but not a political player, and Diane is looking at losing everything, as Louis promises to burn the firm down if she doesn’t concede.

This is Diane at her most vulnerable in a way we’ve never seen her before, even after the death of Will. There is absolutely nothing she can do. Bribing Howard Lyman (Jerry Adler), the swing vote, would help her hold onto power, but only temporarily. She sees no way out, and really struggles with the idea that she can’t overcome her latest challenges. This is defeated Diane, Diane who has no hope, and it’s a pivotal moment for the character, brilliantly played with nuance and poise by the amazing Baranski.

It’s very telling that Diane doesn’t roll over. She’s pragmatic and knows she can’t win against Canning and Lee, but neither does she take the easy out, running for State’s Attorney at the behest of the Governor (Chris Noth), seeing the offer as the slap in the face it is after the Governor dusts her for a seat on the state Supreme Court. No, that would be stepping down and admitting she’s done, retiring away from the defense attorney she is and loves being. Instead, she finds another option, one that could maintain her reputation and position, albeit in a new locale. She offers herself to Florrick, Agos, & Associates.

Now, we don’t know if they will accept or not (they’d be stupid not to), but let’s examine what it takes for Diane to do this. As much as Diane likes Alicia and their bond has been healed through the shared grief regarding Will, this start-up firm is full of people that have betrayed Diane and stolen her clients. This is not a return to friends, but a humbling. Yet, Diane knows she brings much value to the table, a huge amount of billable clients, so she is in a good place to negotiate from. Viewers will love the choice because it brings back beloved characters and helps fix rifts. But for Diane, this has to be a hard decision to make. Going to them, hat in hand, is not the same thing at all as absorbing them in a merger, which she previously considers.

The big deciding factor in if Florrick, Agos, & Associates will take Diane in is Cary. He is the one vehemently opposed to the merger, but might he take Diane on her own, knowing he’ll keep his decision-making ability and not having to give up what he’s built? Cary likes Diane personally, even if they’ve had their differences in the past. I think Cary’s anger at Alicia for trying to force the merger earlier in “A Weird Year” could play a role in his thinking, though. All most fans want is to see Alicia, Cary, and Diane get along, really the three stars of the show now, but for drama’s sake, it may not be an easy coming together. If they do accept, though, at least they can finally afford an office with walls.

Another issue in allowing Diane to join Florrick, Agos, & Associates, besides adding her name to the letterhead, is that Kalinda is most likely part of the package. This would be difficult for Cary because, after overhearing what sounds like Kalinda playing him, his romance with her is soured. He doesn’t stop sleeping with her, but he does feel like she has done a huge, horrible thing to him. That alone might prompt Cary to reject Diane. It’s a shame Cary seems to be getting such a rough deal. He’s suffered enough, having been fired from Lockhart/Gardner previously, then being denied partnership by them, and having to fight his way back to the good place he is in now.

Amidst all of this, Alicia almost misses her son, Zach’s (Graham Phillips), graduation. She does miss the dinner and festivities surrounding it. The Good Wife could let Alicia spend time agonizing over this, but it’s far too fast-paced for that right now. The moves going on for Alicia professionally are important, and thankfully she’s gotten over that working mother’s constant guilt, making time when it’s important, but not always able to be there. The fact that she gets to the school in time to see Zach walk across the stage, and then shares a private goodbye at home afterward, is enough. She is present for the milestone, and he knows she loves him. There is no animosity between mother and son.

It is a little bit of a shame that Alicia doesn’t get home sooner, though, because what’s playing out in her absence is hilariously awesome. Any time Jackie (Mary Beth Peil) and Veronica (Stockard Channing) come into one another’s orbits, conflict erupts in the most entertaining of manners. They may not be central to the main story lines, but both add something really cool to the overall tone and the big picture, fully fleshing out the world into something engrossing and authentic, something that The Good Wife consistently does well. Its roster of recurring parts, second to none on any network, cable or broadcast, contributes to that.

The style of the show is well illustrated in “A Weird Year.” There is a case and a client, but those matter only as far as they affect the main players. Instead, the focus is on the core cast. There are some neat conceits, such as when one law firm first accidentally, and then purposely, spies on the other after a camera is left on, showing that the series is up-to-date on incorporating technology, trends, and current events into the story. Overall, though, it’s the quick pacing, light style mixed with heavy emotions, and fantastic acting by a stellar cast that sells the show.

Speaking of the wonderful actors, Alan Cumming’s Eli Gold has little to do in “A Weird Year,” but he is nearly never wasted. Instead, he gets a small side bit about trying to find a State’s Attorney candidate to support, which he actually thinks Diane may accept because he misjudges his own actions so severely. But at the end, his search ties into a heck of a cliffhanger when he asks Alicia to run. I hope she doesn’t, but it’s cool that Cumming is still threaded into a plot he isn’t a major part of to start, and is instrumental in bringing it home perfectly.

“A Weird Year” is an accurate descriptor. The Good Wife is weird in that it defies the genre of legal procedurals on a network not known for pushing boundaries. This entire season has been a showcase of what happens when a broadcast network actually gives their writers free reign to develop a worthwhile series, and the finale is a great capper for that. I hope it runs for many years to come, definitely the best thing CBS has to offer, hands down, as well as one of the top three broadcast network shows currently running.

If only the network treated it as such, instead of letting the time slot constantly be pushed at the last minute because of inept scheduling of sports coverage. It deserves better.

The Good Wife has been renewed and will return in the fall on CBS.

The Good Wife Finds Out "What's in the Box?"

Article first published as The Good Wife Finds Out "What's in the Box?" on TheTVKing.

So much is happening in The Good Wife's season four finale, "What's in the Box?" which aired on CBS this week. Zach (Graham Phillips) thinks he spots voter fraud, sending Lockhardt Garner scrambling into multiple court battles to try to save the election for Peter (Chris Noth). Meanwhile, who will be splitting off to form a new firm is revealed, personal relationships are rocked, and the election results come in.

One of the things The Good Wife does well is build a stable of reliable, fantastic recurring players. Lots of them appear in "What's in the Box?" lending a bit of extra excitement and tension to the proceedings. Among those returning favorites in this episode are Patti Nyholm (Martha Plimpton), Colin Sweeney (Dylan Baker), Judge Arbernathy (Denis O'Hare), Judge Lessner (Ana Gasteyer), and Jordan Karahalios (T.R. Knight).

But while all of these familiar faces are wonderful to see, none are the focus of the episode, as The Good Wife does know how that their bread and butter is the core cast, nearly all of whom get development and plot in this finale.

Zach doesn't always have a lot to do, but he is instrumental in the various legal battles that play out throughout the installment. It's nice to see him have such a vital part, not only starting the trouble, unintentionally, but also getting to share credit for his dad's victory, sort of. It's a good use for the teen, who looks to possibly have an increased role moving forward if he stays involved, maybe working for his dad?

The brilliant maneuvering, as the characters zip from courtroom to courtroom, is highly entertaining and sharpy crafted. The Good Wife has presented many interesting cases in its day, but the ones in this episode are some of the most enjoyable, especially after the flip, when our heroes must argue the opposite side of the previous debate.

I'm not so thrilled with the election outcome. Yes, I'm happy that Peter wins, but at what cost? It seems pretty obvious that his team cheats, whether Eli (Alan Cumming) is involved or not, and he very well may be. It makes the win hollow. If only the 30,000 votes are rigged, it won't change the results, but since we know that some false counts got in there, it opens up the possibility for others. Is this the arc for next year, with the mystery slowly uncovered?

Despite this scandal, Peter's reputation is not damaged in my eyes. He may not tell Will to reveal the secret (who would?), but he doesn't ask him not to, either. It seems obvious that Peter has no knowledge of the rigging, so his hands are clean there.

Of course, that means Will (Josh Charles) does something shady, again. He's been a murky character at times, and the choice to tell the court about the false votes fall to him. I feel like his decision is not an easy one, as Alicia (Julianna Margulies) could be upset at him for exposing Peter, rather than running to him for comfort, so that would shoot himself in the foot with her. Yet, by protecting Peter, Will keeps Alicia's husband looking good to her. Neither choice will get him what he wants, so should he keep Alicia happy, or do what's right? He chooses Alicia's happiness, proving his feelings for her are real, even if he doesn't get her at this juncture.

Peter's other misstep, trying to intimidate and pay off Cristian (Yul Vazquez) to leave Jackie (Mary Beth Peil) alone, can be chalked up to a son protecting his mother. What's more, as funny as Cristian's handling of Peter is, it also hints that Peter's instincts about him could very well be correct.

Alicia is the titular character for good reason, and she has a couple of decisions to make in "What's in the Box?" First, should she renew her wedding vows to Peter, or try again with Will, who shows his continuing interest with a second kiss? Peter promises not to cheat on her again, and he seems sincere. They've spent a lot of time working on their marriage, and I don't think Alicia should throw that away for a guy she hasn't been able to make it work with twice in the past. Which is why I'm glad we don't see her go for Will this hour.

Second, should she stay at Lockhardt Gardner, or split off with Cary (Matt Czuchry) to form Florrick, Agos, and Associates? I think the episode does a great job with the fake out, making us think Alicia might be calling Will in the end, when really, she is telling Cary she is in. I'm glad that is revealed, rather than just showing the cryptic phone call. Alicia needs to do what's best, and that's get away from Will. I figure that's her deciding factor, though there's also the opportunity to begin something new here. I doubt Sweeney's opinion has much weight, even though we see him encourage the move.

With two firms next season, and Diane (Christine Baranski) presumably heading for the bench, the cast is likely to be split. For this reason, I'm glad that new investigator Robin (Jess Weixler) goes with Cary and Alicia, and Kalinda (Archie Panjabi) stay. I hate to see Will left by himself, and we're surely not done with stories set within Lockhardt Gardner. When Cary was by himself, he got far less screen time. I hope to not see that happen to a lead again.

The regrettable thing, though, is that Kalinda feels betrayed by Cary. Say what you want about Cary Agos, but he has handled this whole rebellion with grace and politeness, juggling others' various interests. He doesn't stab Alicia or Kalinda in the back. He does what he can to make everyone happy, while not allowing himself to be pushed around by a firm that hasn't been fair to him. I really hope Kalinda can be made to realize this, and since he won't be her boss, maybe they can even have a romantic relationship. That would be the best case scenario.

I can't help but anticipate next year, the momentum already set for a new and different season, full of surprises and ups and downs. The Good Wife will return to CBS next fall.

The Good Wife fights the law

CBS's The Good Wife returns with the episode "I Fought the Law." The episode title refers to an incident where Zach (Graham Phillips) is pulled over and subjected to a search under false pretenses, as so many have been before him, because he is profiled as possibly having drug money. He's clean, of course, but the event spurs Alicia (Julianna Margulies) to fight back in order to protect her son, which leads to the uncovering of this immoral practice.

I liked the story because Zach rarely gets anything good to do on the series. Having him involved in a court case, and proving his mettle as an online investigator, is a worthy plot, allowing the actor some positive focus. It also lets he and Alicia bond as they play hero together. In the end, they win, and the arresting officer (Matthew Del Negro, United States of Tara) apologizes.

The question is, what repercussions might occur? The district attorney of the county where the arrest takes place is not happy to have Peter's (Chris Noth) family interfere with the way they do things. At one point in "I Fought the Law," he vows retribution. Even though Zach comes out on top, it would not be surprising if this comes back to haunt Peter in his attempt to seek the governor's office. This might even happen as early as next week, as that episode will be called "And the Law Won."

Poor Peter. He is already suffering because his opponent, Kresteva (Matthew Perry, Go On), is selling himself with his sick kid, and Alicia will not allow Peter's children to participate in the campaign. How do the voters not see through such an obvious ploy? I mean, it's one thing to trot out your smiling family for photo ops, but it's quite another to play on sympathy the way Kresteva does. And one would think that parents would understand Alicia's desire to keep her kids out of the spotlight, and appreciate that Peter agrees to this.

At the firm, things are tense. There have already been cutbacks, and now, facing bankruptcy, there will have to be more. This means people are going to lose their jobs. Hopefully, not Alicia or Cary (Matt Czuchry), as they are more senior now, and have earned their spots. But it will surely make things tougher on everyone.

At first, the court appointed man who gets to make the budget decisions, Clarke Hayden (Nathan Lane, The Lion King, The Producers), seems like a jerk, telling the partners bluntly that he will be making cuts to their budget. But then, seeing him manipulate David Lee (Zach Grenier) into staying, and seemingly approving of Diane (Christine Baranski) and Will's (Josh Charles) loyalty to each other, which he immediately tests by offering them both sole leadership, it seems that there may be compassion within him. He may not turn out to be bad news, after all, as Diane and Will are clearly not good at managing money, and it would be nice to have someone who knows what they're doing in that arena, but still cares about people.

Kalinda (Archie Panjabi) sure has a weird relationship with her husband, Nick (Marc Warren, Hustle)! She beats up his point man, then fist fights with Nick himself, then falls into bed with him, before pulling a gun on the guy. So there's a strong physical attraction, but she's also afraid of him? And he definitely seems up to no good, throwing punches at a girl he's supposed to care about. It would almost be funny if Warren didn't play Nick so scary. Kalinda has a real ugly situation on her hands.

"I Fought the Law" is exactly what an episode of The Good Wife should be. There is character development for most of the leads, wonderful (but not too showy) guest stars, some thrilling legal issues, and an overall entertaining package. New episodes air Sundays at 9pm EST(-ish, depending on stupid sports run overs) on CBS.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Check out my website, JeromeWetzel.com! First posted on TheTVKing

"Get a Room" for The Good Wife

     In last night's episode of CBS's The Good Wife, "Get a Room," Alicia (Julianna Margulies) and Will (Josh Charles) are forced to mediate with a former girlfriend of Will's, Celeste (Lisa Edelstein, House, American Dad!). Celeste tries to use what she knows about Will to gain an advantage, while Alicia agrees to play dirty to help their side. The mediator does side with Alicia, but she feels bad when he calls her out on her sneaky tactics.

      Alicia is a "good girl," as well as a good wife, when the series begins. There has been a slow transition in her character to someone who can be a bit naughtier. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. Sure, she finds some moral grey area where there wasn't any before. But it also makes her seem like a freer, happier, more well-rounded person. Whatever else her relationship with Peter (Chris Noth) is, it is a bit suffocating for her. Seeing Alicia being truly happy, even if that means stepping on a few toes, is worth the price.

     One can credit Will with much of the change. Finding pleasure in his arms, she loosens up sexually. Alicia may seem a bit prudish and repressed to most, but she is not that way when flirting with Will, as evidenced by the fact that she offers to dress in costume for him; an American Revolution costume, no less. Will is allowing Alicia to find her sexiness, and they seem to enjoy each other's company. It's really a win-win situation for the couple.

     That is, it's a win-win unless Will is in love with her. Alicia's brother, Owen (Dallas Roberts), keeps trying to get Alicia to talk about her new lover, but she refuses. This leads Owen to figure out that Alicia is just using Will as a fun release, not because of a deep emotional connection. Sure, Alicia and Will are old friends, but she isn't fancying him for the role of husband number two. instead, he's a secret that she keeps just for herself, and that makes it even more tantalizing, but not so important.

     Might Alicia be, at least in part, trying to figure out what causes Peter to stray? Knowing all the things he did, maybe her affair with Will is her way of living out some of that fantasy life and better understanding her husband. Or, maybe she just wants to get even. They are separated for now, but the circumstances of Will and Alicia's current arrangement open the door for a possible reconciliation later on. Both Alicia and Peter will have to find a way to forgive and move on, making the split two-sided instead of one.

     The problem with that scenario is that Alicia may choose to work with Peter against the firm, intentionally or not, as she eventually tries to repair her marriage. Diane (Christine Baranski) is already worried about such a conflict, and has secured Will's blessing to sack Alicia should that occur. This is a very real possibility with the path Alicia is currently walking.

     The major B plot in "Get a Room" involves a bunch of school kids puking their guts up, possibly because of the cheese that they eat. The cheese people come to Eli (Alan Cumming) for assistance with their image, and he convinces them to retain Lockhart / Gardner as counsel. This leads to a major conflict, as what is in Eli's clients' best interests for public image does not necessarily gel with what is in their legal interest. Diane and Eli fight for control of the situation, even in front of the client.

     It's a very exciting battle of wits between Eli and Diane. Both are very strong characters who are not often challenged by equals. That's because they have few equals. Yet, in this case, both are extremely intelligent and well matched; and both are completely correct in their respective approach, as per their business. This makes the struggle for power between the two of them not only entertaining, but complicated and intense. Pitting the two against each other is a stroke of genius for The Good Wife, and one that will hopefully crop up again.

     Eli is involved in another struggle at Lockhart / Gardner, this one more of a longer arc. He discovered Kalinda's (Archie Panjabi) skills last week, and continues to make good use of her in "Get a Room." While it's cool to see the two interact, and for the audience to experience yet another character impressed by Kalinda's mad skills, this presents a problem. After all, the rest of the firm already relies pretty heavily on their sexy investigator. With Eli pulling her time and attention, she's spread pretty thin — Will and Alicia have to wait for evidence for their mediation while Kalinda looks into the cheese situation. This balance cannot last long, and will soon erupt into another (probably juicy) showdown.

     The Good Wife thrives in subtlety, as well as conflict. Kalinda and Cary (Matt Czuchry) make or may not have had a relationship, but he'd certainly like to. That's obvious because of Czuchry's wonderful acting, and the tension the two build in multiple scenes and a passionate kiss. In "Get a Room," Cary actually calls out Kalinda on said tension in a mostly unsatisfying way. Was there once a relationship there? Might there be in the future? Did she break his heart, or lead him on? Surely Kalinda didn't mean to hurt one of the few people she is close with, but apparently nothing serious ever blossoms between them. Shame, that.

     A couple of final random tidbits... Now that Zach (Graham Phillips) knows that it's Peter's fault that Alicia kicks him out, how might Zach's relationship with his parents change? At minimum, he will no longer treat Alicia as the bad guy. Also, will Grace (Makenzie Vega) ever stop being so easily influenced by others? Might Jackie (Mary Beth Peil) begin to better tolerate Owen, and vice versa?

     And, how will Celeste working at Lockhart / Gardner affect Will and Alicia's relationship? Might Will be inclined to go back to someone else when he learns that Alicia isn't ready for something meaningful with him? Celeste could at least be a good rebound/comfort for him.


     Watch The Good Wife, as outstanding as ever, Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on CBS. If you DVR it, be sure to check and make sure it starts on time, as CBS's NFL runover can push the show back, an inexcusable offense, in this reviewer's opinion.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter!

     To buy The Good Wife DVDs, please click here.

Article first published as TV Review: The Good Wife - "Get a Room" on Blogcritics.

The Good Wife at the "Great Firewall"

     CBS's The Good Wife is having a stellar season. While their arcs play out slower than many other shows, they do it with such talent and intensity, that anyone who tries the same method may likely be put to shame. The show still does some case-of-the-week stories, but much of the concentration is on larger, unfolding arcs.

     Last week, the series tackled religion, teenage rebellion, introduced Natalie (America Ferrera, Ugly Betty, who will be doing several episodes), and brought back guest star great Gary Cole as Kurt McVeigh. A memorable effort. This week's episode, "Great Firewall," which will be the last for a few weeks, was also an excellent example of their best qualities. It provided a capper to one major plot, while developing a few others.

     At first glance, it appears that the case Lockhart / Gardner and Bond are trying is a stand alone story. They represent a dissident suing an Internet company for giving his IP address over to the Chinese government, resulting in his arrest and torture. Ken Leung (of Lost fame) shows wonderful range in the part of the dissident. Then Alicia (Julianna Margulies) discovers that her bosses really take the case at the behest of Edelstein (Jack Carpenter), a Mark Zuckerberg-inspired type who wants to move his own business into China and hopes that the case will hurt or force out his competition. While things are often not spelled out on this series, it appears that Edelstein gets his wish.

     For Alicia, things suddenly get more complicated. She is invested in the case because of the human rights abuse, and is turned off upon learning there are other motivations. Will (Josh Charles) points out to her that this is often the way things work. It's a gripping tale as Alicia goes on with the case, but begins to have doubts about what she's doing. It's also the way the world is. I am a little surprised this hasn't been a major plot point before, but applaud the show for the grace with which it was handled.

     The question raised here is, do the ends justify the means? One company suffers from not paying attention to human rights, but another company is just going to move in and do the same thing. Their case does nothing to address a systemic failure, so in the end, they do not really win, in my opinion. But the episode succeeds because it brings to light yet another problem with that planet that needs fixed. If it gets people talking about the issue, it is well worth it. Which it already is.

     But that is not all that is going on at the firm this week. Will, Diane (Christine Baranski), David Lee (Zach Grenier), and Julius (Michael Boatman) try to get the votes they need to oust Derrick (Michael Ealy) before he can make a move against them. Brilliant editing of the trailer for this episode, shown last week, as well as the way certain scenes play out, have viewers believing Julius has turned coat to Bond's side. Which makes the ending even sweeter when Bond is voted out and he realizes Julius was just playing him to get a better position at the firm, as well as to get rid of one of Bond's men.

     The entire fight with Bond shows expert writing. The twists have kept coming over the past months, including when Will teams up with Diane, betraying his previous deal with Bond. Each flows seamlessly and realistically. Never once did I feel there was a cop out or deus ex machina at play. Every choice each character makes gels with what we know about them, and their motivations do not change throughout. Flawless.

     Kalinda (Archie Panjabi) doesn't share in the elation of victory. Her future looks more and more precarious all the time, as a grand jury is now being built against her. I currently do not see how Kalinda has a chance of staying in her current position. Unlike the battle for control of the firm, there have not been positive signs for the good guy. I feel like Peter (Chris Noth) winning the election and calling off the investigation is the only chance she has. Which would also provide a number of headaches for Peter, and the appearance of favoritism and corruption. Saving Kalinda could send Peter right back to jail.

     On a personal front, Kalinda is becoming warmer. She recently moved, and gives both Alicia and Cary (Matt Czuchry) change of address cards. Neither had been given her old address. Kalinda is allowing herself to open up to people, or at least two of them. She has made fast friends. They are people that she trusts. And rightly so, as Cary is the one who warns her about the grand jury. While Kalinda maintains that era of mystery that makes her character so intriguing, she is showing a softer side, too. It is welcome.

 

     Now that the fate of Lockhart / Gardner is settled, does that mean Cary will soon be returning to the fold? While I would like to see Cary back among his old co-workers, I am less certain now than ever it is the path the writers will pursue. And I am seeing the wisdom of leaving him where he is. Cary isn't happy working for Childs (Titus Welliver). It is likely Alicia can convince Peter to keep Cary on if Peter wins the election. Plus, that would give Cary scenes with Peter and Eli (Alan Cumming) as he moves into their circle, a new combination that could provide fresh material, as well as more screen time for Czuchry, who deserves it. I think I am now in favor of Cary staying with the DA.

     That opinion is only made possible by the likely outlook that Peter will win back his former office. After Childs drops out this week, Peter is finally looking good in the polls. I feel like it has always been a foregone conclusion that Peter will rise back to his former heights. After all, why hire Eli as a full-time character this year if Peter, who isn't full-time, wasn't going to be around? There isn't any other plot to keep Eli moving. But now the arc backs that idea up.

   Last night, the victory became closer than ever as Zach (Graham Phillips) and Becca (Dreama Walker) uncover a harmful secret of Childs's. While Becca remains manipulative and untrustworthy, thus unlikeable, getting Zach involved in the politics is a good move. Zach has already shown an interest in his father's work, and I think it very nice that Zach deals the death blow to Peter's rival. True, Eli really had a lot to do with it, but it wouldn't have happened without Zach. This sets up a nice father-son dynamic that I hope will be featured more in future episodes.

       When the show returns in the spring, there are still plenty of questions to be addressed. What will Peter's win mean to his family? Will Alicia finally make a move with Will? How will Cary clash with Peter and Eli, should that be the route taken, as he will certainly not just fall in line with them? Will Kalinda salvage her job? How will Eli get with Natalie? Can we please have more Kurt? And David Lee? And Viola (Rita Wilson)? Will Grace (Makenzie Vega) abandon religion? OK, the last one looks like a pretty predictable 'yes', but there may be bumps along the road to that, as there are usually are on this series.

     The Good Wife airs Tuesday nights 10 p.m. ET on CBS.

Article first published as TV Review: The Good Wife - "Great Firewall" on Blogcritics.

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