SHUT EYE Review

Article first published as SHUT EYE Review on Seat42F.

My name is Charlie Haverford. I used to be a magic trick inventor. Until I became a fake psychic for a bunch of gypsies. When you’re a fake psychic, you’ve got nothing: no say in what you do. You do whatever work the Romas who control the area send your way. You disappoint anyone who’s still talking to you: an unsatisfied wife, a screw-up sister, kids, too, a hypnotist, if you’re desperate. Bottom line? Until you figure out how to get out from under the Roma thumb, you’re not going anywhere.

OK, so fun with the intro to this review aside, there are major difference between Jeffrey Donovan’s previous USA series, Burn Notice, and his new drama on Hulu, SHUT EYE, premiering this week. Still, it’s hard not to draw some parallels. Donovan’s Charlie used to be great at something, has gotten into a situation where he’s not doing what he wants to do, and doesn’t have an easy way out, sort of like Michael Weston. Also, those around him, while supportive, are not the A team he might pick, but he’s committed to them.

Yet, I like SHUT EYE a lot better than Burn Notice. Burn Notice was a thin, case-of-the-week procedural that rarely went anywhere until the end. SHUT EYE is a much more complex, ongoing tale in which a man who has been beaten into submission gains an actual clairvoyant gift, which may just be what he’s been waiting for to make some changes.

Donovan is good, building upon his success in Fargo last year. He’s someone who can play pathetic and obedient well, but there’s an edge to him that is interesting. He is surrounded by a decent cast that includes KaDee Strickland (Private Practice), Isabella Rossellini (Alias, Joy), Emmanuelle Chriqui (Entourage), Susan Misner (The Americans), David Zayas (Dexter), Mel Harris (Saints & Sinners), Dylan Schmid (Once Upon a Time), and Angus Sampson (Fargo). Almost all are well cast, and the dynamics are set pretty solidly in the pilot.

The world is one not often portrayed in long-form, that of con men and women running a very successful racket of an industry, which I appreciate. Of course, those involved are little better than thugs and gangsters, and who is on top is purely a matter of showing strength and effectively threatening. It’s seedy stuff, but a new version of the dark worlds that currently populate television.

Somehow, though, through it all, Charlie comes across as being a likeable character. Rossellini’s Rita says it best when she calls him an honest liar. Charlie does engage in the same trickery as the others, but he also helps people and cares about people. He is loyal and he follows the rules, until he is pushed past a breaking point. Even then, his intentions are good, and he’ll only turn on those who deserve it. He’s a bit noble, which is surprising, given his profession and the situation he’s in.

SHUT EYE is set up to be a hero’s journey. We’re likely to see Charlie find his inner spirit and fight back when he needs to. We’ll see him rise from his lowly position and be a man to be proud of. Hopefully at least Linda (Strickland), his wife, will see that, and maybe stop fooling around with Gina (Chriqui) on the side, not that viewers are likely to blame her in the moment; Charlie hasn’t yet awoke when that occurs. Still, I find myself rooting for them to fix their marriage, and thinking Charlie might forgive her if he learns the truth.

SHUT EYE isn’t a perfect series. The story isn’t as gripping as one might like, with the flaws in the characters being a detriment to engaging with the story. Some of the plot twists or momentum seems forced and artificial. None of the performances are the type to make you start thinking of awards season, though they’re serviceable across the board. But it’s pretty good, and I do want to see more of it.

SHUT EYE will release its entire first season Wednesday, December 7^th on Hulu.

SECRETS AND LIES and Crap

Article first published as SECRETS AND LIES Review on Seat42F.

ABC’s newest drama, SECRETS AND LIES, is based on the Australian miniseries of the same name. A man finds a boy’s body in the woods, and he soon finds himself the prime suspect in the kid’s murder, despite his insistence that he’s innocent. As friends and neighbors turn against him, can he clear his name and save his family?

First, it should be said that it is ridiculous how America finds the need to remake English-language series instead of just buying and airing the original versions, as is done in other countries. SECRETS AND LIES marks the third prime-time broadcast network drama this complaint applies to in this single television season, the first two being Gracepoint (copied from Broadchurch) and The Slap. At least this one doesn’t have any actors reprising their same roles, thus seems a little less repetitive.

When the U.S. remakes these shows, they almost always make an inferior, watered down product, often because the series is stretched out to more episodes, Americans not being used to limited series like other countries get. In this case, SECRETS AND LIES has been expanded from six hours to ten. But I have not seen the Australian version, so unlike with Gracepoint, I cannot lament over how American studios screwed up the program. Instead, I am judging this drama on its own merits, which, if not great, are surprisingly not terrible.

SECRETS AND LIES is a less complex version of The Killing, or a remake of Desperate Housewives with fewer characters and lacking humor. It does have some major plot holes, such as why the entire town turns against its protagonist before there’s any reason to, especially in a scene where he gets into the front seat of a police car. The DNA of the show, though, is a familiar case of a detective investigating locals, and thankfully the case will span the season, rather than be resolved in a single hour.

The lead investigator in SECRETS AND LIES is Detective Andrea Cornell (Juliette Lewis, The Firm TV series, Natural Born Killers), who is unfortunately the worst character in the first episode. She lacks any discernable emotion, other than supreme judginess, and has already made up her mind about the case before she sees any evidence. Her suspect, Ben Garner (Ryan Phillippe, Damages, Cruel Intentions), does have some holes in his story worth looking into, but he’s certainly not an obvious murderer, at least not right away.

Ben’s family is a central part of the tale, too. He is having problems with his wife, Christy (KaDee Strickland, Private Practice), and not just financial ones, though those are present and quickly worsen. His best friend, Dave (Dan Fogler, Man Up), is immature and crashes with them. His eldest daughter, Natalie (Indiana Evans, Home and Away), was the babysitter of the dead kid, and is being attacked by her friends for what her father is accused of doing. His younger daughter, Abby (Belle Shouse, Summer’s Shadow), may be the only one not turning against him, yet anyway.

Rounding out the cast is the deceased’s mother, neighbor Jess Mullen (Natalie Martinez, Under the Dome), who of course has some secrets of her own.

This is not a very original premise, and so my expectations were quite low going into episode one. Perhaps that’s why I ended up liking it, at least somewhat. It is far from the smartest show on television, but it has a solid cast of performers who handle the plot pretty well. Even where there are holes, they are smaller than in most of the recent premieres I’ve seen in the lack couple of years, and I’m drawn into Ben’s situation, sympathetic to his plight. There are a few surprises that don’t wholly feel like surprises, but there could be something here.

Of course, once we get to the middle of the season and the story has to tread water or add unnecessary subplots because Secrets And Lies seeks to fill more than the six hours it is based on, that opinion could quickly change, so I’ll take it week by week for now, rather than committing to the season pass. Still, this could be something, especially in the currently weak broadcast field.

SECRETS AND LIES premieres this Sunday at 9 p.m. ET on ABC.

Check Out of PRIVATE PRACTICE

Article first published as DVD Review: Private Practice The Complete Sixth and Finale Season on Blogcritics.org

Spun off from Grey’s Anatomy in 2007, ABC’s Private Practice tells the story of a group of doctors who all work out of the same medical practice. After six seasons, the series ended this past January. Now, those final 13 episodes are available on DVD.

As much as it has always presented itself as an ensemble, Addison Forbes Montgomery (Kate Walsh) has always been the star of the series. Her entire journey over the past six years has been to find herself, find her man, and find her family. It’s been a long, arduous road, full of plenty of screw-ups along the way. Season six concludes her six-year story arc, as she considers marriage to Jake (Benjamin Bratt) — who may just be the one — while facing motherhood for the very first time.

Addison isn’t the only one hoping to settle down. Sam (Taye Diggs) also is tired of dating, if he ever did like it, and now is ready to be married again. But who will be the girl for him? Stephanie (Justina Machado), his new flame, with whom things seem to be going well with? Naomi (Audra McDonald), his ex-wife, who returns late in the season after a long absence with a few surprises? Or could it be Addison?

Meanwhile, Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) prepares to give birth to triplets, and is not very excited about it, while her husband Cooper (Paul Adelstein) and their son Mason (Griffin Gluck) feel just the opposite. Cooper and Charlotte’s union has never been an easy one, yet the love between them is so strong that one knows they just have to work things out in the end.

Charlotte may doubt her ability to be a good mother, but watching her with Mason, we are confident that the new babies will be well taken care of. This may not be the way Charlotte wants her life to play out, but Cooper is sympathetic, and this story, while testing their marriage, could result in an even stronger bond between them.

Violet (Amy Brenneman) tries to find a way to honor departed husband Pete’s memory and process the anger she still feels towards him. This is a very interesting take on mourning, since Pete and Violet are not exactly in a good place when he passes on. The story does as good job of presenting how someone might face the loss of a spouse not be entirely missed.

The rest of the cast have their stories, too. Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) builds herself back up from a painful low and Sheldon (Brian Benben) faces his own mortality while understanding he is not alone. Every one of the series story arcs is well served before the final curtain.

Creator Shonda Rhimes seems determined to bring each player full circle, completing the path they have been walking, and tying up the loose ends as neatly as possible. However, in doing so, season six has some weaknesses as well. Not every couple that ends up together feels as earned as they should. Things get a little too on the nose when Violet reveals in the series finale (SPOILER) that she has written a book called Private Practice. But compared with past seasons, which sometimes delivered not-so-satisfying arcs, this sixth one is stronger than most, and at least tugs at the viewers’ heart strings with aplomb.

The special features are light, the three-disc set containing only deleted scenes and bloopers. But since these are some of the best installments of the series, for the die-hard fan, the episodes alone should suffice.

Private Practice The Complete Sixth and Final Season is available now.

Quickie reviews

I don't always have time to write full reviews of everything. Here are some quick thoughts (slightly expanded) that I posted on twitter @JeromeWetzelTV I think I might do posts like this occasionally from now on.

Private Practice - "Aftershock" : I really don't care that Pete (Tim Daly) has left Private Practice other than that it makes Violet (Amy Brennemen) annoying. Sigh. Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) and Cooper (Paul Adelstein) continue to rock. I love Addison (Kate Walsh), but I'm glad they're wrapping her story up. If she breaks up with Jake (Benjamin Bratt) when she does, though, I'll be ticked.

The Big Bang Theory - "The Date Night Variable" : The Big Bang Theory was very good, as usual. I'm glad the relationships are getting movement, especially Shamy, and poor Raj! Glad Stewart (Kevin Sussman) is a series regular now! Nice addition.

South Park - "Sarcastaball" : South Park was good, felt like the ref strike joke was an after thought, but great commentary on our over protection of kids.

The Neighbors - "Pilot" : The Neighbors had goofy charm in a few spots, but overall, was not very good. Like Coneheads, if they never assimilated. What I don't get most about The Neighbors is how the aliens lived in a neighborhood for 10 yrs without being discovered. They're not careful

Private Practice stages The Intervention

     In an event dubbed by ABC Private Practice: The Intervention, two episodes, "Who We Are" and "The Breaking Point," air back to back. The major focus of the first hour is the characters staging an intervention for Amelia (Caterina Scorsone), who shows up engaged and high after being missing for twelve days. The practice gets together and tries to get her into rehab, but she only goes after her fiance dies of an overdose. In the second hour, Amelia spends about six weeks in rehab, while Addison (Kate Walsh) keeps trying to get pregnant, Violet (Amy Brenneman) considers leaving Pete (Tim Daly), and Cooper (Paul Adelstein) struggles to balance his son, Mason (Griffin Gluck, United States of Tara), with a patient.

     What Private Practice lacks in intriguing cases of the week, it makes up for when it comes to big, dramatic events. Amelia's arc is annoyingly slow ramping up, but in "Who We Are," it really comes to a head splendidly. The series handles the confrontation of an addict and hitting rock bottom with realism and grace. Amelia is not villainized, and Sam (Taye Diggs) and Jake (Benjamin Bratt), both medical professionals, debate whether addiction can be called a diseases. Many issues are explored, such as what causes addiction, how trauma can affect a person, and the emotional toll such an issue takes. Even Amelia's relationship, though very brief, feels authentic and solid. All in all, this aspect of the show comes through wonderfully in a way Private Practice only manages to do a few times per season.

     Jake gets some back story in "Who We Are" as well. Viewers learn that he is a widower of an addict, and that he raises her daughter, whom is not biologically Jake's. It proves he is a good man who has been through a lot, and come out the other side stronger than ever. His conversation at his wife's grave, revealing how he feels he has finally found a family at the practice, is moving, as well as revealing. The doctors at the practice, despite all of their flaws, are a family. When they remember that, they are at their best.

     Cooper has a real family to think of, now that Erica (A.J. Langer, Eyes) with his son. Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) adjusts far better than she would have before all of the things she has gone through with Cooper, and Cooper is every bit the great dad anyone would expect, having witnessed his bedside manner with his kid patients. It's an adjustment, to be sure, but the biggest obstacle for Cooper will be how his job interferes with his daddy time, something he doesn't really think about until "The Breaking Point." It is likely he will manage, though. It's a good thing he has a mature, understanding son.

     Unfortunately, not every family is destined to survive. Pete and Violet come together in a time of great turmoil, and are really only cemented as a couple around the time that she gets pregnant with his son. Pete sticks with Violet through all of her personal demons, but now that she is better, he is growing resentful of her. At first, she brushes it off as a coping stage after his heart attack. But the more time passes, it becomes obvious that if there was love between them, it is gone now. It's a brave and difficult thing for Violet to leave Pete, who would not end the marriage on his own, no matter how much he'd like to. But perhaps, after separating, they can be better people for it.

     Things also do not look good for Addison and Sam. She is determined to have a baby, something that frustrates him as it threatens her health. He wants her, but does not want to raise another child. When she gets hers, which may be soon, it will probably spell the end of them as a couple. Addison can compartmentalize her relationship with her efforts to get pregnant, but she can't do so for a baby. It is not revealed whether Addison ends "The Breaking Point" with child or not, but given the circumstances and the look on her face, it seems likely.

     Private Practice is enjoying a high point right now. Too bad, then, it's off until early 2012.

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

     To purchase Private Practice DVDs and streaming episode, please click here.

"God Laughs" at Private Practice

     ABC's Private Practice premiere, "God Laughs," finds Addison (Kate Walsh) talking to a therapist about her life, especially the fact that her new fertility doctor turns out to be Jake (new series regular Benjamin Bratt, Law & Order, The Cleaner), whom she recently flirted with. But that's just the framework. The real action involves Pete's (Tim Daly) heart attack, Violet's (Amy Brenneman) encounter with an abused wife and her decision to return to Pete, and Amelia's (Caterina Scorsone) fall off the wagon into booze.

     The title is excellent, even if you do not believe in a deity, a valid conclusion. That's because it does seem like every time plans are made, reality will step in to mess with them. Life is messy, and some people, including many of the characters on Private Practice, tend to forget this. Love the reminder.

     Many will be happy to learn that Pete comes through his medical emergency more or less intact. It's touch and go for awhile, and with Private Practice's willingness to kill off main characters, there is some real drama built up. Even worse, a still inebriated Amelia operates on him, so anything could really happen. But Pete lives to doctor another day, and saves the series from having to replace another main character. This is great, because all the Pete / Violet drama deserves a happy ending, and not more turmoil.

     Violet's story in "God Laughs" is a little less enticing, but still interesting. Stuck at the airport, phone battery dead, ignorant to what is happening with Pete, Violet strikes up a conversation with a stranger (Breaking Bad's Betsy Brandt). Some of what they talk about it just patient of the week stuff, a little unexpected, since Violet's license is suspended. But she's not officially counseling, so she isn't technically breaking any rules, I think. However, there are also things in the conversation that remind Violet that she has it good with Pete, and she shouldn't leave him. Even if she's doing towards something instead of running away this time, that is no excuse to leave her still-fragile family. In the end, Violet makes the right choice.

     Addison takes care of a strangely silent Lucas the entire episode, sparking her to seek motherhood once more. This is the least effective story in the hour, not because of Addison's desire, a long running theme that does not resolution, but because it just doesn't fit with everything else. Pete might die, and Addison is thinking of having a child? There are other concerns going on. Yes, death can make one rethink priorities, but save it for next week. Private Practice is strongest when it is a true ensemble show, and now when Addison finds a way to draw focus constantly.

     Finally, Amelia's addiction arc is actually rather well done. Amelia has a tendency to fade into the background since joining the cast, and any story that gives her some focus is welcome, as Scorsone is a good actress that can hold her own with her co-stars, and deserves to. Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) has been through enough, and doesn't need a relapse, so it's cool that she is the tough cop trying to give Amelia a gut check about what she is doing, rather than the center to this story. Sheldon (Brian Benben) might be even more vital, providing help, but not enabling. Maybe a genuine romance could spring up between the pair after he finishes helping her get better? God knows Sheldon really deserves true love, but then again, "God Laughs."

     Private Practice also stars the excellent Paul Adelstein and Taye Diggs. It airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.

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

     To purchase Private Practice DVDs and streaming episode, please click here.

Private Practice: The Complete Fourth Season coming to DVD

     The fourth season DVD of ABC's Private Practice goes on sale next Tuesday, September 13th. For those of you familiar with the series, you know that it can be a bit uneven, and at times, painful to watch. Yet, season four contains the award-winning "Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?" and its aftermath, definitely one of the finest plots in the run of the show. Nay, on television last year. As such, this season, more than any other of Private Practice, is worth buying.

     "Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?" features a criminally insane man (Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Nicholas Brendon) raping Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) in her office at the hospital. Charlotte struggles for many episodes after to come to terms with what happens, and to start to move past it. Her friends are also quite stricken by the entire situation, and it takes awhile for everyone to learn exactly what the man does to her. Later, he returns, causing trouble all over again as he reopens old wounds, barely begun to scab over. It's a long arc, driven by some fantastic dramatic acting, and wonderfully realistic depictions of a heinous act. Strickland's lack of Emmy nomination for the ordeal is unacceptable.

     In fact, the best bonus feature of Private Practice: The Complete Fourth Season is a 13-minute special on the monumental episode. Called "An Inside Look: The Violation of Charlotte King," it contains interviews with producers and actors, explaining how they struggle to make it seem real, and the reactions they have gotten about it. Paul Adelstein, in particular, describes his experience of filming the episode. Of course, KaDee Strickland has plenty to say, too. Others praise KaDee for the way she has gotten involved with RAINN since filming the emotional entry, and she gets teary speaking about it. It's very clear the impact of this hour of television extends far beyond the episode itself.

     The other bonus features are few, but rich. There are 12 deleted scenes from eight episodes. Practically every single one of them are actually character development material, often with emotional impact. These are not the standard castoffs that can be taken or leaven. It's almost fifteen minutes of footage you will wish you had seen, and now can.

     There is also a two minute and fifteen second blooper real, featuring screwed up lines and funny faces. This is less important, yet still entertaining.

     Back to the plot itself, season four marks a lot of big change, ending in the ultimate closing of Oceanside Wellness, which is struggling financially. Naomi (Audra McDonald) spends much time out of town this year, and decides to quit the practice (and the series). Addison (Kate Walsh) deals with her mother, Bizzy's (JoBeth Williams), marriage to a woman, and untimely death. Violet (Amy Brenneman) publishes her book, which causes a stir among her co-workers. Pete (Tim Daly) tries to accept Violet, now his wife. Orphaned Betsey (Hailey Sole) returns to tug a few more heart strings. Sam (Taye Diggs) tries to make a relationship work with Addison. Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) struggles with her alcoholism. And Sheldon (Brian Benben) searches for love.

     While I would not recommend buying each season of Private Practice on DVD, season four is overall pretty worthy, so check it out. Private Practice: The Complete Fourth Season hits shelves on Tuesday, September 13th.

     Private Practice will return for a fifth season soon on ABC.

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

     To purchase Private Practice DVDs and streaming episode, please click here.

Article first published as DVD Review: Private Practice: The Complete Fourth Season on Blogcritics.

Private Practice wants "...To Change the Things I Can"

     ABC's Private Practice ends its fourth season with some big changes, as the episode title, "...To Change the Things I Can," implies. Violet (Amy Brenneman) has her medical license suspended, and the investigation into her extends to the entire practice. Only Sam (Taye Diggs) appears ready to fight to preserve Oceanside Wellness. Many characters ponder leaving the practice behind altogether. Violet decides she should go on a book tour, despite her husband, Pete's (Tim Daly), objections. Naomi (Audra McDonald) ponders a proposal from Fife (Michael Patrick Thornton). Addison (Kate Walsh) considers taking a trip with a handsome stranger (Benjamin Bratt, Law & Order, The Cleaner) she just met, whose name she doesn't even know. Meanwhile, Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) slides back into alcoholism, Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) struggles to counsel a rape survivor, and Cooper (Paul Adelstein) talks down a father (Joshua Malina, The West Wing) who wants to euthanize his daughter.


     The ending of this episode is a cop out. Addison decides not to run away, and instead, proposes dissolving the practice, only to immediately restart it again under a different name. Will that really throw the medical investigators off? If the same group of doctors stick together, it doesn't seem reasonable to assume changing the name of their organization will do anything substantial to get them out of trouble. Because of this, the whole thing feels forced upon any examination at all, and it becomes a hollow story with little suspense. At first, it looks to be an exciting challenge, but it peters out by the end of the hour. Hopefully, it will be revisited next season in more depth, and not just wasted.

     Why is the board even investigating them in the first place? Perhaps doctor / patient confidentiality is a tad confusing, but a when a group of doctors work together, they are not allowed to consult with one another? Sometimes the characters do slide into gossip, but trading opinions also occasionally leads to unexpected help. Keeping the information within such a community seems like it is only beneficial to the patient. No doctor is telling non-medical professionals anything about their cases. It is purely a professional arrangement. Don't any real life practices operate this way? If not, why not?

     That being said, the doctors on Private Practice have been pulled in a variety of directions, and a crisis like this may be just what they need to renew their commitment as a group. While only Sam initially steps up to fight, the possible dissolution weighs on all of the characters, and many take the problem into account as they decide what to do next. It is unfortunate that more screen time is not given to this plot, instead the hour is split between a variety of smaller problems. This could easily be a couple of episodes all on its own.

     Poor Amelia has little plot in Private Practice. Her current story arc, where she resorts back to alcoholism, feels contrived just to give her something to do. With no romantic entanglements and few medical cases that tie her to the other doctors, it is always a stretch to include her in episodes. The solution? Give her a dumb arc where she revisits past mistakes, and has learned absolutely nothing. While relapse is a part of many addicts' lives, Amelia doesn't seem the type to actually do it, until she does. With luck, the writers will come up with something for her soon that doesn't involve her addiction.

     Pete has a problem with Violet leaving because of past issues. Violet has shown a tendency to run away when things get tough. In Violet's mind, this is a totally different situation. Her medical career is stalled by her suspension, so she is pouring her energy into another job, that of selling and promoting her book. From her point of view, the decision is understandably not about running away, but keeping busy in a way that satisfies her professionally. But Pete's opinion is also easy to see, because of Violet's history. The couple needs a serious discussion with open minds. Neither of them seem willing to look at the other side, and that might end them.

     What happens to Pete at the end of "...To Change the Things I Can?" He collapses on the floor in front of his young son. Pete is showing signs of illness throughout the episode, so it isn't a total shock. But is the kid old enough to know how to dial 9-1-1? And what exactly is wrong with Pete? While this is a season finale, and so some months may pass before the season premiere, it is likely Violet will give up her book tour and come home to care for her family, even if that isn't shown in an episode.

     Who is Addison's new friend? Reports are that Benjamin Bratt is joining Private Practice full time next season. It is quite likely he is a doctor, though obviously not one that has worked at St. Ambrose, or Addison would know him before now. If he is not a doctor, it will be hard to serve his character in story from week to week, unless much more screen time is devoted to Addison's after house person life, which is not what Private Practice needs. Bratt's character is apparently here to start a love triangle with Addison and Sam. If he wants kids at all, he'll definitely win Addison over.

     It is a total mistake for Addison to fall back into Sam's bed. He probably does it because her strength in taking charge of the problem with the practice makes her attractive all over again. But they have an insurmountable disagreement that they cannot get over. There is a good, solid reason they end their relationship, and it isn't going away. As such, it is purely a mistake on both of their parts to risk reopening wounds by renewing a sexual relationship. It is just forced drama to create conflict when Bratt returns next season.

     Naomi's departure is a little anti-climatic. The production team has been willing to work with McDonald this year as she frequently commutes back home to her family in New York City. It is no surprise that she is leaving the cast, at least as a main character. She has been absent for many episodes this season. At least she is given a happy ending, and in NYC, no less. That will make it easy to film any stories the writers may come up with for Naomi in New York on location, instead of making her fly back to Los Angeles. Hopefully, that means her story isn't over, since the Private Practice developments somewhat mirror real life.

     It is sweet that Betsey (Hailey Sole) is brought back one more time. It is very sad that Betsey has had to go through so much, but the last time she came into the lives of the doctors, it felt certain that Naomi would have adopted her had she been in town and aware of the situation. Thus it is with poetic justice that Betsey returns back to them at a time when Naomi is there, so the caring mother can end any custody issues. It is too bad Betsey must suffer, but it concludes the story the way it should have ended in the first place, and so fixes a past mistake.

     Cooper only ever wants to help people. He is perhaps the most compassionate doctor on the show. In "...To Change the Things I Can," he  faces a very tough decision. Should he help a father end his daughter's life, when she doesn't have much of a life left? This is a moral quandary, similar to other episodes of the series, but different because a child is involved. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to end of the life decisions, which are usually left up to the family. This one is a little confusing because the option is not given to end the child's life, though she is a vegetable. But Cooper handles the father with grace and care, in a way few people could.

     Charlotte has come full circle with the admission of a patient who has been abused and raped, but will not allow a rape test. It is no surprise that Charlotte relives old feelings, having only recently begun to recover herself from a similar ordeal. Charlotte is a very dynamic character, who has experienced a lot of growth over the course of the series. It is a logical step for her to have to face those demons again, and thankfully she comes through with flying colors. Charlotte is able to offer comfort and connect with the patient without totally tossing aside her personality, which prevents too much bonding. Kudos to a nice capper on a very good story arc.


     Private Practice will return for a fifth season next fall on ABC.

     If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Click here for all of my Current Season Reviews.

     To purchase Private Practice DVDs and streaming episode, please click here.

Article first published as TV Review: Private Practice - "...To Change the Things I Can" on Blogcritics.

Private Practice finds "The Hardest Part"

     I was excited when ABC's awesomely casted, but often boring, Private Practice got really good this past fall. Charlotte's (KaDee Strickland) rape, the way she deals with it, and how Cooper (Paul Adelstein) helps her through things, is easily the highest point of the series thus far. That is followed by Addison's (Kate Walsh) mother killing herself, providing more well written, well acted emotional impact. But for the last month, nothing has sparked nearly that level of great writing. At least not for a full episode. There have been glimmers here and there, but sadly, the show is once again flailing.

     It's time to either put this puppy down or let it find its legs. It has already been renewed for next season, which could be used as a last effort to redeem itself. If it's really going to be this hard to find good stories for these characters, who are interesting, despite how they are sometimes seen, then it's time to end it. Use next season as a way to redeem the show, pouring every good idea ever had into one great season, and then let it gracefully bow into the night. Or get things together, realize what works (hint: focus on the doctors, not the patients!), and take it to the next level. I am very tired of it's floundering in mediocrity, and I hate any series dying a slow, painful death of decay.

    That being said, last night's final confrontation between Pete (Tim Daly) and his mother (the amazing Louise Fletcher) definitely falls on the terrific end of the spectrum. We know that Pete doesn't like his mother, and we know why. But helped along by his wife, Violet (Amy Brenneman), who is a very good therapist when she is written as such, Pete finally makes a reconnection. Of course, this is quickly followed by Sam's (Taye Diggs) pronouncement that Pete's mother doesn't have long to live. So we get Peter sitting by her bed side, and then a powerful breakdown of grief back at home. This is the stuff good Private Practice is made of.

     Cooper and Charlotte continue to be fantastic, too, even when they only get small scenes together. Cooper's story with his patient, a teenager who could lose his awesome musical abilities because of a brain surgery to remove a tumor, and the boy's grandfather who has a hard time showing his love, is sweet. Plus, I like seeing Cooper clash with Amelia (Caterina Scorsone), with whom he has a satisying but odd friendship. However, the scene where Charlotte buys Cooper a piano is even better. Sure, patient stories are fine as tools to help the doctors learn something about themselves, of expose a past trauma. They should not be the linchpin of a show like this, as they are in some of the weaker episodes, whose top selling point is its spectacular cast.


     That being said, I do appreciate a strong guest star in a small role. This week we see Vanessa Marano (Gilmore Girls, The Young and the Restless) and Laura Slade Wiggins (Shameless) as pregnant teenagers. They got in, did what they needed to do, and got out without being annoying. That may sound like an insult, but it's not. They served their purpose, and delighted people who were already fans of them (like me) who got to see them pop up on another show in a different part than what we'd already seen them do. Great job girls!

     I have advocated for Sheldon (Brian Benben) to find true love for some time. I did not mean this way. Sheldon has taken up with a therapist named Marla (Alex Kingston, Doctor Who, ER), who panned Violet's recent book. I have no problem with a new character raising conflict, of course. That's how dramas progress. But I don't see the chemistry between Marla and Sheldon. So far, I don't see much of anything to find all that exciting about Marla. I can't see her ever really fitting in with any of the other cast members, and I certainly don't want her taking Sheldon away from the group. Can't we do better for Sheldon?

     Addison is M.I.A. for her second episode in a month, as she pops over to sister series Grey's Anatomy for a part that is little more than a cameo in their special musical episode. She was always my favorite character on Grey's, but has turned into a whining, unlikable shell of the character she once was. While I love Addison and Busy's relationship in recent months, Addison's arc with Sam and wanting a baby grew stale before it even got going. I don't know why, but Addison doesn't work this way. We need to get back to the Addison that was very lovable in her cranky, flawed way.

     Also missing, though she has been missing a lot lately, is Audra McDonald's Naomi. She will be leaving good as a main character at season's end, but it seems like she's already been reduced to part-time, as this is at least the sixth episode this year she has sat out. I understand the series is trying to give the actress more time to spend with her family, which leaves all the way across the country from where the show is being made, but once the decision not to use has been made, can't some graceful send off be done? Or perhaps a role written so that she can pop in and out as she travels the world, looking to help all those who need it.

     Private Practice airs Thursday nights at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.

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Private Practice Goes For "Blind Love"

     ABC's Private Practice is Grey's Anatomy's less consistent younger sibling. Despite a great cast, the series has had its share of ups and downs in the quality department. On shows I like, such as this one, I tend to try to overlook the downs, and only review the ups. Last week's "Blind Love" was an up, not for the story of the week, which was decent, but for the furthering of two major, well written, well acted running arcs.

     Last time I covered Private Practice was during November sweeps, when a man named Lee McHenry (Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Nicholas Brendan) raped Charlotte (KaDee Strickland). As good as Charlotte's arc of recovery has been, it should be no surprise that I am now revisiting the show at the end of that story, as Charlotte confronted and forgave Lee last week. Bonus points because Charlotte convinced Lee's abused girlfriend to tell the police that Lee confessed to the rape, so Lee will be paying for the crime in jail, which viewers may have considered a lost cause. It had previously appeared that Lee had gotten away with the assault. Not so fast!

     What's been great is that Strickland has really shone in a very out of character story for her. I say out of character not because the writing was bad, but because Charlotte has always been such a strong, assertive women, and lately she's played the terrified victim. I do not know anyone close to me who has ever been raped, but as near as I can tell, Private Practice has done a superb job at tackling the subject realistically, and in a very moving way. It wasn't just shown in one week, but in an ongoing story of recovery after the traumatic event. Both Charlotte and Cooper (Paul Adelstein) struggled mightily last week, both urging Sam (Taye Diggs) differently on whether to allow Lee to live or die during surgery. It was a strong note for the series, with both viewpoints being well rationalized. I wasn't completely sure which way Sam was going to go until just before the surgery.

     Equally strong, Private Practice is finally making good use of Kate Walsh's Addison Montgomery. For too long the character has been reduced to pining over various men, and bouncing from failed relationship to failed relationship. The recent plot with Addison's mother, Bizzy (JoBeth Williams), who came out as a lesbian, and then watched her long-time secret partner, Susan (Ann Cusack), die the day after the wedding, has been phenomenal. Addison's struggle with who her mother is, as well as expressing emotion to a woman who doesn't seem to have any, has been handled with care. I am giddy with anticipation, so to speak, over how tonight will play, considering the shocking surprise ending of last week's episode. Perhaps giddy is the wrong word, but I am very much looking forward to it.

     Sadly, Naomi, despite being played by the amazing Audra McDonald, has been pretty much worthless this entire season. She will soon be leaving the show as a main character. Perhaps her continued presence in coming years, only using her when good story needs her, will make up for a lackluster run. I can only hope. McDonald deserves better. I assume it's too much to ask that Naomi get one more good story so she can go out on a positive note?

     Though both larger arcs appear to be winding down, let's hope that Private Practice has a few more tricks up its sleeve. Now that it's got the momentum, don't let it stop! Private Practice airs Thursday nights at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.

Article first published as TV Review: Private Practice - "Blind Love" on Blogcritics.

For frequent mini-reviews and occasional TV news, follow Jerome on Twitter.

Private Practice "Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?"

     ABC's Private Practice has had its good runs, and its bad. Sometimes the show has been downright hard to watch, while at others it has shined like the intensely engaging drama that it can be. Last night, an episode aired that was one of the best they've ever done. It was called "Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?" It was disturbing, intense, tragic, and moving, all rolled into one.

     The episode centered around the immediate aftermath of the attack on Charlotte (KaDee Strickland), seen briefly in flashes at the end of last week. Peter (Tim Daly) sees Charlotte stumble down a hall, badly beaten up and covered in blood. Charlotte tells him that she was robbed, and manages to keep most of the hospital staff away, secluding herself in a room with Pete and one trusted nurse. As soon as Peter steps out to notify all of their fellow doctors at Oceanside Wellness, Charlotte calls Addison (Kate Walsh). Addison is the only one that actually finds out that Charlotte was raped, as Charlotte refuses a rape kit, won't tell the police, and swears Addison to secrecy, against Addison's protests. In Charlotte's vulnerable state, the other doctor cannot bring herself to deny the demand.

     It's incredibly frustrating, because the rapist, Lee (Nicholas Brendon), is sitting down at police headquarters, but can't be held because no one has brought charges against him. If only Charlotte would agree to the rape kit, the evidence to get Lee off the streets would be there, and justice might be served. Clearly, this story is far from over. Next week's preview showed Addison trying very hard to keep the dark secret, and Charlotte still suffering.

     The hour had plenty of gut-wrenching moments. From Charlotte receiving stitches with no pain killer (she is in Narcotics Anonymous and allergic to the local anesthetics), to her fiance, Cooper's (Paul Adelstein) first glimpse of her. He sits by her side, trying (and failing) to be brave, not even realizing just how deep Charlotte's trauma goes. Addison's reactions to her fellow doctors are telling, as clearly she is beyond frustrated with the situation, and just wants to help. Yet, she can't.

     The rape itself was handled delicately. Viewers got a bit more than the flashes they saw last week, but it was still just quick glimpses. What we did see was disturbing, violent, and scary. I'm not saying rape ever gets glamorized, but it was surprising to me just how brutal the attack was. What was shown was more than enough to convey what happened, so it's good it was left at that. Congratulations to the cast and crew who pulled off such a horrible event in a way that focused on the emotion, and did not show unnecessary brutality. It still conveyed the point, but it was done in such a way that was as classy as possible in the situation. Basically, no violence for violence's sake. Only what was needed for the medium to continue an incredibly moving, dare I say important, story.

     Spaced throughout the scenes of Charlotte in the hospital was a plot where Sheldon (Brian Benben) is called to the local police station to talk to a man who was picked up covered in blood that was not his own. The audience finds out that his name is Lee, and long before he confesses to raping a woman, it's not hard to figure out that it's Charlotte's attacker. However, those of us waiting for that inevitable full confession, or someone to connect the dots to who his victim was, never materializes. At least not yet. As I've said, I'm sure that this storyline will take up quite a lot of screen time over the coming weeks.

     Brendon, famous for playing geeky sidekick Xander on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, was amazing. While he was beloved on Buffy, subsequent roles haven't shown a depth of range, and left my opinion of his acting talents on the shallow end. However, in this role, he was fantastic. It's such a dark, unexpected turn for him, and he greatly surpassed expectations. He didn't have a ton of dialogue, either. He managed to convey a lot of layers with just a few expressions, which is something I did not expect he was capable of. I apologize for ever thinking ill of Brendon, and hope this role will lead to more work for him soon.

     This season has already had a lot of adjustment, with the recent death of main character Dell (Chris Lowell), the debate over what would become of his daughter, Betsy (Hailey Sole), and the off-screen death of William White (James Morrison), owner of the downstairs clinic. It's still a little hard getting used to Peter and Violet's (Amy Brenneman) marriage, and Sam (Taye Diggs) and Addison's relationship. It seems to have made Sam more timid to be with such an outspoken woman. It has been nice to have Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) added to the lineup, though she has yet to find her niche. She was very helpful this week, and it finally started to feel like she belonged with the rest.

     Violet already went through another traumatic event that shaped more than a year of the series, and so is deeply affected by what happened. Her lack of passionate reaction demonstrates how much she has healed. While her attack, which involved a crazy woman cutting her baby out of her stomach, was equally well-written and performed, the dark place that Violet went to afterward drug down much of last season. It took a very, very long time for Violet to start to come around, and finally rejoin her cast mates with any story that did not center around her experience. I don't think they will follow the same route with Charlotte, as it's already been done, and it wasn't the most-liked arc for many fans.

     Naomi (Audra McDonald) has been off dealing with William's estate, and will soon return to run the new, combined offices of Oceanside Wellness and William's floor. This means that Naomi has not appeared in the last three episodes. One cannot help but wonder how the last few weeks would have gone differently if Naomi had been around. Surely, Naomi would have insisted on adopting Betsy herself, after no one else would. She likely would have been the one assisting Charlotte instead of Addison. Would Naomi have kept the secret? Would she have been able to convince Charlotte to get a rape exam? Naomi is not as forceful as Addison, so I doubt she would have been able to make Charlotte submit to the tests. However, she has a much greater compassion, so chances are she may have been able to talk her into it. I look forward to Naomi's return, and how the ongoing plot will be affected by her re-joining the foray.

     If your life has been impacted by rape, incest or other sexual abuse, reach out to RAINN online or by phone at 800-656-4673.

     Private Pratice airs Thursday nights at 10pm on ABC, following the show it spun off of, Grey's Anatomy.

For frequent mini-reviews and occasional tv news, follow Jerome on Twitter.


Article first published as TV Review: Private Practice "Did You Hear What Happened to Charlotte King?" on Blogcritics.

Private Practice more than doesn't suck, it's awesome!

     It has arrived.  Last night was the Private Practice season finale, "The End of a Beautiful Friendship", on ABC.  It had me in tears through sections of it.  Which means, it was fantastic, of course.  If it stays this good, it will surely be one of my favorite shows to tune into every week.

     For one, several of the love triangles that have knotted our characters for weeks have sorted themselves out.  I am still very sorry for Sheldon (Brian Benben), and sincerely hope a love interest is brought in for him next season.  However, Cooper (Paul Adelstein) proposing to Charlotte (KaDee Strickland) was one of those tear jerking moments.  Even more so was the office scene near the end, where he asked for the ring back so he could propose again tomorrow.  They are the couple I have rooted for for a long time, and they had better be solid now.  Also, Peter (Tim Daly) and Violet (Amy Brenneman) have been mooning over each other for awhile.  It got annoying, so I stopped being in their corner, but their apparent reconciliation brought back the memory of that brief time they were happy together, and it's wonderful that the uncertainty is over.  They can be a great mommy and daddy now.

     Though not a hater, I am less thrilled about Addison (Kate Walsh) and Sam (Taye Diggs).  They stayed away before because of the risk of hurting Naomi's (Audra McDonald) feelings.  Now that she is good with them again, will their finally getting together keep everyone ok?  I'm sorry, but Addison needs a friend much more than she needs to be with Sam.  She needs something, as she used to be my favorite character on the show, but now is pretty far down the list.  Speaking of Naomi, her own situation sorted itself out, as one guy left the picture.  I think her Fife (Michael Patrick Thornton) being together may take the sting off of the Sam and Addison thing.  I hope.

     Ok, to the elephant in the room.  It was no big surprise when Dell (Chris Lowell) died, though the plot was structured in a way to keep you guessing.  After all, he is the most dispensable in the love stories, as he hasn't connected with any other main characters in a very long time, and he was dropped to a limited number of episode this season anyway.  However, he also filled a role no one else did, and so I will miss him.  I'd much rather he have left for medical school than died.  Leaving Betsy (Hailey Sole) an orphan that way was heart breaking.  But the bright side is, that leaves room for a new cast member.  I nominate Sheldon to full time status, instead of 'Also Starring' in the credits.  I'd also like it is Fife and / or Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) stuck around, though, to be honest, Amelia is definitely the third place choice.  Her value would be a friend for Addison if everyone turns against her for hooking up with Sam.

     The good news is the show is considered a sure thing for a fourth season, and I am very much looking forward to it.

Private Practice doesn't suck anymore!

    Despite a fantastic cast, all of whom had television experience beforehand, and being a spin-off of one of television's most popular dramas, ABC's Private Practice has sucked plenty in the last couple of years.  It just goes to show you that you can never predict which shows will work or not until they happen.  But something great has been happening lately with the Grey's Anatomy companion, and that is good writing and great acting!  Last week's courtroom drama, "War", pitted the cast against each other as Violet (Amy Brenneman) and Peter (Tim Daly) fought for custody of their son was arguably the best episode of the series.

     The trouble, and a hell of a plot arc, started last spring when crazy woman Katie (the superb Amanda Foreman), convinced that Violet's child was hers, cut open the god doctor and kidnapped the child within her.  Katie went to jail and the baby was recovered unharmed.  Violet went through some very dark times, but she's finally starting to recover, and wants to be in her son's life.  Meanwhile, though, she dumped Lucas with Pete, who, trying to get over her, fell into the arms of Addison (Kate Walsh), who can't have a baby of her own.  To make things even more complicated, Addison is fighting feelings for Sam (Taye Diggs), so it's not a perfect match, but as it's her only chance to be a mother, she is reluctant to give it up.  The whole love rectangle is getting pretty complicated.

     In this week's episode, "In the Name of Love", things took an even darker turn at the very end, when Sam and Naomi's (Audra McDonald) daughter, Maya (Geffri Maya Hightower) went into labor, but as involved in a serious car accident on the way to the hospital.  Dell (Chris Lowell) was in the vehicle as well, but seemed to be ok.  This doesn't bode well, as rumors are circulating that one major character will not survive next week's season finale.  Would creator Shonda Rhimes be so cruel as to take the Bennett's pregnant teenager out of this world?  It just doesn't seem right!  Other rumors, however, point to Dell's exit, even though he seemed to walk away from the accident.

     My favorite love triangle currently is between Sheldon (Brian Benben), Cooper (Paul Adelstein), and Charlotte (KaDee Strickland).  I firmly believe, and always have, that Cooper and Charlotte belong together.  However, though it was Charlotte initially who couldn't commit, Cooper has been plenty immature in how he has treated her since their last breakup.  He was on his way to tell her how he felt as this week's episode closed, so hopefully the showdown goes well.  I can't help but feel bad for Sheldon, however, who lost Violet in his previous love triangle with Peter, and I do really want him to find someone and be happy.  He has been a great addition to the cast, and I hope Sheldon will continue to stick around, with or without Charlotte.
     If they keep this up, they could make my Best list soon!

     Private Practice's season finale will air next Thursday at 10pm on ABC.

Grey's gets Private

    Last week, in both of their first episodes of 2010, Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice did a "Crossover Event".  What that means for these two ABC shows, who do this about once a year or so, is that Addison Montgomery (Kate Walsh, The Drew Carey Show) returns back to Seattle Grace, the hospital she worked at before getting her own spin off, and then someone goes back to Los Angeles with her for the second hour.  It's not really a true crossover, in my opinion.  I would rather they do a two hour, interconnected story instead of keeping their characters so segregated.  Once, Addison brought some friends with her on her visit, and a couple of patients have made the trip, but it's still always a little bit of a let down, more so now that Addison has almost been in L.A. longer than she was as Seattle.

     That aside, both shows have really stepped up their game this season.  As I mentioned before the holidays,  Private Practice has been improving, and now with the growing relationship between Addison and Sam, (Taye Diggs, Rent) things seem to be finally growing and changing.  Dell (Chris Lowell, Veronica Mars) is getting over his dead wife, Pete (Tim Daly, Wings) is becoming a great father, and Violet (Amy Brenneman, Judging Amy) is starting to get over last season's tragedy.  The only story not doing it for me is the messy melt down between Cooper (Paul Adelstein, Prison Break) and Charlotte (KaDee Strickland, The Wedding Bells).  They have always been rocky, the basis of their relationship from an internet sex chat room, but it appears to be finally over, and that is very sad.  Perhaps the writers decided they couldn't keep it fresh, but the two of them had always been so good together, it's a real shame.

     On the Grey's front, another wonderful relationship has ended, with Mark (Eric Dane, Marley & Me) and Lexie (Chyler Leigh, The Practice) calling it quits over his pregnant teenage daughter, Sloan (Levin Rambin, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles).  It's terrible news, as she had really humanized and grew his character in ways he needed.  I was kind of rooting for Mark to stay with Addison in L.A., but since she's getting closer to Sam, I guess the timing just wasn't right for them.  Instead, he needs to try to win Lexie back, especially if his daughter gives the kid up for adoption.  Or better yet, perhaps Mark will adopt his own grandchild.  Either way, any path to get the two back together will be difficult because of Mark's recent tryst with Addison, and while he was away, Lexie also feel into the bed with Alex (Justin Chambers).  Oh, and Cristina (Sandra Oh, Sideways) was willing to give up Owen (Kevin McKidd, Rome) just to keep her heart goddess, Teddy (Kim Raver, 24, Lipstick Jungle)?  WTF?  (Side note, Kim Raver was recently picked up as a full time cast member.)

     Tonight's Grey's will feature the return of former doctor Izzie Stevens (Katherine Heigl, Knocked Up).  We'll see how she reacts when she found out that Alex cheated on her, though she has abandoned him pretty much since the wedding, so he's not entirely to blame.  Down the coast, Sam and Naomi (Audra McDonald, A Raisin in the Sun) will find out that their own teenage daughter is pregnant!  Oh, the drama!


     The two shows, both created by Shonda Rhimes, air Thursdays, including tonight, on ABC at 9 and 10pm.