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.

Private Practices shuts its doors

Article first published as Private Practice shuts its doors on TheTVKing

ABC's Private Practice came to an end this week after six seasons on the air. Some of the plot arcs over the years were fantastic, others not so much. But there are some wonderful characters here, and some memorable stories, and thus, it's sad that it's over. Especially since it ran much shorter than the series it spun off from, Grey's Anatomy, still going strong nine seasons in.

The main character of Private Practice has always been Addison Forbes Montgomery (Kate Walsh). Viewers meet her in Grey's Anatomy, the cheater in a bad marriage, and we watch her pull herself together, mostly after moving away to sunny California. Addison searches for love, both romantic and as a parent, and this all finally comes together for her in "In Which We Say Goodbye."

I don't know that the show has really demonstrated that Jake (Benjamin Bratt) is a better match for Addison than anyone else. To keep the drama going up until the end, they have their rocky moments in the final season. Still, it's thrilling to see Addison get her happy wedding day, and as long as she believes that Jake is the man she is meant to be with, who are we to complain?

Besides, we know that Jake is a good man. We've seen how he treats his daughter (Emily Rios), and what he does to make sure that Addison can keep baby Henry, whom she wants more than anything. He is the type of guy that will sacrifice his own desires so that the ones he cares about get what they need. I don't know that Addison deserves someone quite so good, considering all of her faults, but it's gratifying to see her happy.

The big surprise in "In Which We Say Goodbye" comes when Sam (Taye Diggs) and Naomi (Audra McDonald) hook up, and then she gets pregnant. This, alone, would be enough, and yet, Private Practice takes it a step further. Months pass, Sam goes after Naomi, oblivious about the baby, and the episode ends with their second wedding, Naomi having returned to the practice and her friends.

Is this the ending the makes sense for the characters? After all, when last we saw Naomi, she was happily engaged. Sam is in a relationship with a wonderful woman, Stephanie (Justina Machado, Six Feet Under) throughout the past few installments. Why break up these pairings at the last minute?

That's the thing about the Private Practice finale. It gives the perfect resolution for each character, one that will pull the heart strings of the viewer, even if it doesn't quite fit with where the plot was going. The emphasis is placed on giving us the sappy. I don't know if that's the goal of every show as it goes off the air, but because of the way this show has played out, it works here.

Other stories are more mundane, but still sweet. Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) probably has the least to do, but we see things are going well with her and James (Matt Long, Mad Men), and that's enough. Cooper (Paul Adelstein), Charlotte (KaDee Strickland), Mason (Griffin Gluck), and the triplets find their balance as a terrific family. I loved this most of all, Cooper and Charlotte being my favorite people on the show. Sheldon (Brian Benben) gets to be with the woman he loves, even though she is dying.

Sheldon's plot is the only one I complain a bit about in this group. I know that there is no way to avoid his love interest kicking the bucket, and thus, he will be sad, while the others are smiling. But this would have been OK if he had returned to his job, months later, and we could see him laughing with everyone else in that final scene. Instead, he is the sole one missing, and it casts a slight pallor, knowing that where he is cannot be nearly as joyous at the practice.

Is this woman even who Sheldon is meant to be with? He has a tendency to jump into a relationship full force, and it is easily conceivable that she is just the latest in the line. "In Which We Say Goodbye" would have us believe otherwise, that she is Sheldon's soul mate, but like Jake with Addison, we don't really see what sets her apart from the other women Sheldon has loved. Thus, I'm a little bit depressed that he leaves everything else that is good in his world to care for her. He should have kept his job, and with it, the network of support at work.

Finally, we get to Violet (Amy Brenneman). She goes stag to the wedding, a sign that she is moving on from Pete and finding herself, something the character has always struggled with. This is a fitting ending for her, as Violet's plots have always been more about self-discovery and triumph, rather than depending on a love interest, the way other characters have. We get to see her doing well, probably temporarily, until the next tragedy comes along, but at least she'll have this moment in time.

It's a little too on the nose that Violet's second book about "joy" is called Private Practice. Are we supposed to think that everything we've seen over the last six years came from her book? I wouldn't think so, considering the early days were so Addison-driven. I enjoyed the characters debating whether it was a good title or not, but it does take one out of the story a bit in that moment, sacrificing the believable world the characters inhabit for a joke.

Violet also treats a patient (Sarah Ramos, Parenthood) in the finale that doesn't want to leave her. Series creator Shonda Rhimes has stated that the patient's words are her message to the fans. So Shonda doesn't want the show to be canceled, but realizes it's for the best? I'm not sure I quite understand. However, it's her show, so she can say whatever she wants. I just thank her for making it.

That's kind of my overall impression of Private Practice at this moment. I didn't always agree with the direction, and sometimes it frustrated the hell out of me. But it was definitely Shonda's vision, and at the end of the day, she knows how to jerk a tear, or help an actor develop a fully realized person. As I watched the last hour, I couldn't help but thinking, despite my periodic disappointments, it was a pretty darn good show, overall, and I wasn't ready for it to end.

At least it went out with a great last season. Private Practice will be missed.

Want to read some of my fiction? It's on my website, JeromeWetzel.com! Also, for the latest updates and article links, as well as commentary on episodes I don't fully review, please follow me on Twitter!

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.

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     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.

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     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.

Mr. Sunshine ends with "Ben and Vivian"

     ABC's Mr. Sunshine ended its freshman run last night with "Ben and Vivian," which I feel is probably its best episode yet. Things really flowed well, and chemistry was improved by the addition of a great guest star. While a decision about renewal has not yet been handed down, things aren't looking that great for the series. That's too bad, because like many new sitcoms, I think Mr. Sunshine just needs a little time to really work out the best road map for itself. Obviously, the cast is terrific, and the setting is fun and unique. If any new bubble show this year could use a second chance, I vote for this one.

     One change I would like to make, should Mr. Sunshine get a second season, is to make Lizzy Caplan (Party Down, True Blood) a series regular. Caplan guest stars this week as Vivian, Crystal's (Allison Janney) new assistant. She falls into bed with Ben (Matthew Perry) the night before she begins work, and once they realize they now inhabit the same office, begin a friends with benefits relationship. Ben falls for her, but she rejects his need of something more.
     Ben's growth through season one has focused on his ability to get in touch with emotions and forge a real relationship. When we meet him, Ben is in a similar benefits deal with Alice (Andrea Anders), but she breaks it off. I guess it's appropriate that, at the end of the season, his place in the pairing is reversed. The fact that he passes up Vivian's offer to continue the sex and forget about his plea for a real coupling shows that Ben is making progress. That is why, more than anything, the series should be renewed.

     I have to mention quickly that Andrea Anders is a constant delight. It's the little things, like the recurring bit where she opens Ben's door and catches the ball he has thrown, that set her apart. Everything she does just lights up the screen, and after numerous good sitcoms she's been involved in (Better Off Ted, The Class), it's time she is featured on a genuine hit.

     My argument for more Caplan doesn't stem just from her interaction with Ben. Her best bits are as she befriends Roman (Nate Torrence). Rejected once more by his mother, Crystal, Roman turns to Vivian to fill his needs. She does, enjoying her time spent with him. In fact, the only reason she even agrees to do anything with Ben outside of sex is so she can be close to Roman. While I did not sense a romantic attachment between the two, Caplan returning could lead to some fun jealousy stuff for Roman's crazy girlfriend, Heather (Portia Doubleday), a definite argument for bringing her back.

     Roman, like Ben, has grown. He is introduced as a bumbling idiot who just wants love and affection from his mother. Crystal continuously lets him down, and it comes to a head in the final episode. Crystal once more chooses another man over giving Roman attention, but instead of taking it, Roman snaps back. With Vivian and Ben in his corner, (and Heather, though we don't see her here) Roman has built up enough self-esteem to standup to her, declaring he is tired of hearing her say she's going to be a good mother; she needs to start acting like one.

     This could be a real turning point for Crystal, who has resisted growth, even though she frequently talks about it. I love Janney, and her character is a kooky fun mess. However, I do believe there are real emotions underneath her facade, and yet no one is willing to dig deep enough to get to them. Roman has the ability to be the first. Renew the show so we can see more of this great pairing!

     The one character I'm not crazy about is Alonzo (James Lesure). Generally, his purpose in being on the series seems to be to keep Alice and Ben apart until Ben can grow into a mature man worthy of Alice. I actually could see Ben and Alice not ending up together, but I expect the series will want to toy with the idea of the two as a couple again before they drop it.

     This week, Alonzo is actually given a story that has nothing to do with Alice. Dave the Mascot (David Pressman) tests Alonzo's legendary kindness and patience by taking over his office. He keeps pushing Alonzo's buttons, and when Dave loses Alonzo's zen garden rake down his costume, Alonzo snaps. Is the zen garden the only thing that keeps Alonzo sane? More can be explored about why he is the way he is, and what it takes to set him off. I want to see some dark secret come out. I'm not arguing to get rid of Alonzo, but give him more to do, and more depth.

 

     I won't say this is currently the best sitcom on television, or even in the top five. And I know that a fabulous cast does not guarantee a great series (I'm looking at you, Private Practice!). But there are plenty of flashes of greatness in season one of Mr. Sunshine, and I think a second season could potentially be much improved. Please give them the chance, ABC!

Article first published as TV Review: Mr. Sunshine - "Ben and Vivian" on Blogcritics.

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

Click here for an alphabetical list of all of Jerome's Current Season Reviews.

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.

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

Click here for an alphabetical list of all of Jerome's Current Season Reviews.

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.

Hellcats about to raise some hell

   By now you've probably heard the bad reviews of the CW's Hellcats. I certainly had, and that's why I never got around to watching the preview DVD they sent me at the beginning of the summer. However, I got a second version of the pilot from them last week, and I'm happy to report, it was pretty good.

     The show stars Aly Michalka as Marti Perkins, a smart girl studying law who loses her scholarship. Desperately searching for a way to stay in school, Marti finds out that cheerleading offers a scholarship. Despite considering all cheerleaders brainless groupies, she decides to put her past gymnastic skills to work and tries out. She can't quite keep up with their routines, but with a little improvisation, she impresses the coach and captain enough to earn a place on the squad.

     Speaking of the captain, she is Savannah, played by Ashley Tisdale, star of the High School Musical series. The quote that best personifies her is, "If we're going to improvise, shouldn't we make some kind of plan?" She's uptight, but dedicated to her team, and willing to do whatever it takes to win, even if that means befriending Marti after the blond trash talked everything that she loves. This part shows that Tisdale does have acting chops beyond Disney movies, and she was my favorite part of the pilot.

     The cast also includes a love triangle, naturally. Robbie Jones (One Tree Hill) is Lewis Flynn, Marti's new cheerleading partner. Dan (Matt Barr) has been Marti's best friend since childhood, although she doesn't seem him as anything more. Both are definitely into her, and both would make a good pairing, although I'm learning towards Team Lewis. I also enjoyed Sharon Leal (Dreamgirls, Private Practice) as the coach and the always fantastic D.B. Woodside (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 24) as her boyfriend slash team doctor. Not so thrilled with the villain of the piece, Alice (Heather Hemmens), whom Marti replaces after her injury. But perhaps that's because she's doing a good job being unlikeable. Nor did I like, surprisingly, Gail O'Grady (Boston Legal, American Dreams) as Marti's alcoholic mess of a mother. But again, I'm not sure I was meant to.

      Hellcats premieres tomorrow night (Wednesday) on the CW at 9pm.



Article first published as TV Preview: Hellcats About to Raise Some Hell 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.