Unbelievable!

I thought Rhona Mitra had done her part on the new season of "Nip/Tuck" during hiatus from "Boston Legal". But now I learn that she's actually been cut from "Boston Legal"!

And Monica Potter is gone as well!

And Lake Bell was axed at episode 5 of season 1.

What is David Kelley thinking? I guess this is the new David Kelley... of "Girls Club" and "The Law Firm" fame (two stinkers which are long-since canceled). He's clearly lost his touch and insight.

Instead, they've apparently brought in someone (never heard of her) named Julie Bowen, from "Ed" and "Jake In Progress" (neither of which I watched), supposedly to give the show more of a comedy tilt rather than drama!!! WTF??

And Candice Bergen goes full-time.

Well, I can only say I'm very disappointed, but I still will tune in... at least for the first few episodes of the new season. Presumably the final four episodes from season 1, which got postponed to begin season 2 will still have Potter and Mitra, after which they'll disappear.

I'm hoping the writing is still A-1, but I'm not optimistic if they're now going to push "comedy".

"Retooling"... way to kill a show. Think super-smart terrific original "Boomtown" and "Karen Sisco", which only got worse and then withered away to die once the retooling jocks had at it to make the shows "more appealing to the masses".

Hey, I thought "Boston Legal" was my most favorite, most enjoyable, best written, best acted series from last season. I don't know why they had to change anything.

Anyway... at least Rhona Mitra is on "Nip/Tuck" where she can finally get some significant screen time. I think she's terrific.

The final episode of last year " Death Be Not Proud" was one of the finest 60 minutes of drama I have ever seen on TV. Spader was unbelievable in this episode.

I am horrified at the notion of turning it into a comedy show. Sad...very sad.

Drastic changes in the cast - changing the time slot - this show is doomed. Just like "Boston Public", David couldn't leave well enough alone. Sad, really.

The show will do fine in the new slot.

As long as Shatner and Spader both remain - it will stay ahead of 75% of the shows on TV.

I'd rather have Rhona on Nip/Tuck where she is allowed more "lattitude" in her "acting". ;)

As long as Shatner and Spader both remain - it will stay ahead of 75% of the shows on TV.

I'd rather have Rhona on Nip/Tuck where she is allowed more "lattitude" in her "acting". ;)

Agreed... now we just need a way to get Nip/Tuck in HD to better take advantage of that "lattitude" :)

As long as Shatner and Spader both remain - it will stay ahead of 75% of the shows on TV.

I'd rather have Rhona on Nip/Tuck where she is allowed more "lattitude" in her "acting". ;)
Oh boy, is she, Carlson and Mitra in the same bed!?!? Where's my heart pills.. :p :D

Well, Boston Public is getting better ratings than the heavy drama The Practice from where it came (Practice may have gotten better ratings during its first season) so they're probably thinking the legal comedy angle will do the show better than the legal drama angle which The Practice did for years.

I got tired of the comedy after the 30th penis joke last season. I think the show could use some better comedy writing.

The final episode of last year " Death Be Not Proud" was one of the finest 60 minutes of drama I have ever seen on TV. Spader was unbelievable in this episode.

I am horrified at the notion of turning it into a comedy show. Sad...very sad.


I agree. THIS is the direction that I would have liked to see the show go more into. Why can't you have serious and intelligent material in a quality drama and yet have some good humor as well?

I'm concerned for the future of this show.

only time will tell... or tuesday anyway.

only time will tell... or tuesday anyway.

Shatner and Spader will keep watching, Potter was a toss up for me, but Mitra really is a critical loss for this show, imho.

If they're really going to just go for straight cornball and wreck the careful balance and stride I felt they had acheived, especially with that death row episode among others... that makes me sad.

I hope to pleasantly surprised.

Monica Potter wanted to leave, about to have ( or already had ) a new baby.

i dont know, just like all of Kelly's shows, this has/had great promise. I loved watching the show as it was, but he HAS disappointed me in the past, as he radically changed directions with Boston Public, and Alley McBeal (that show was good until Billy died inexplicably...). So I can never be sure about what Kelly is planning, lets hope he doesnt screw this show up.

OTOH, I will be watching Commander-in-Chief, thats produced by the same person who wrote "The Contender" which was an excellent movie, hope to see the same type of stuff here.

Julie Bowen was on Ed and was OK on that show, but most of you might know her as the future/past wife of Jack on Lost.

People are quick to jump on David Kelley for the "retooling", when it is most likely a network directive. ABC wouldn't have yanked the show off the air last season with several episodes left if they were happy with the direction it was taking. Yes, Grey's Anatomy turned out to be a surprise hit and they didn't want to change its timeslot, but they could have easily found another night for Boston Legal.

Let's be honest here, that death penalty episode was an amazing piece of drama, but how many people in the "red states" do you think watched more than 10 minutes of it before turning the channel in outrage? I would never advocate that a producer dumb down his show for the mass audience, but a network executive certainly would, and in this case probably did.

That said, all of Kelley's shows whither and die after starting out with huge potential. Even Picket Fences wasn't very good in its last couple of seasons, and Chicago Hope went from one of the best dramas on television to one of the worst in no time at all.

I would have liked to see 2 or 3 good years from this show before the inevitable turn to crap, but considering Kelley's track record I knew not to get too attached to it.

Yeah, blame the "red states" :rolleyes:

Let's be honest here, that death penalty episode was an amazing piece of drama, but how many people in the "red states" do you think watched more than 10 minutes of it before turning the channel in outrage? I would never advocate that a producer dumb down his show for the mass audience, but a network executive certainly would, and in this case probably did.

There was a couple of other flash-point issues as well, some of them I was bit shocked that they got away with putting it in the show. I can easily believe that the show/producer was told to scale back on the political/social issues that they were presenting, and if that is the case, this show will become far less interesting to me.

I thought this show was the perfect blend of hilarious comedy, sexually orientated banter and relatively hard looks at hard issues, now it would seem as if it's just like everything else out there...bland and safe.

I loved the practice, I loved boston legal, here's hoping that they don't ruin it.

I thought this show was the perfect blend of hilarious comedy, sexually orientated banter and relatively hard looks at hard issues, now it would seem as if it's just like everything else out there...bland and safe.

It hasn't even premiered yet, has it?

I dont think ABC, although owned by disney, would do that to Boston Legal... retool the show because of its subject matter. Recall this is the same network that stood by Desperate Housewives when all the red staters outraged over it. Now you can say that DH had a lot higher ratings than BL so ABC had a financial incentive to not mess with success and let Cherry do his thing, but still I think, or i'd hate think, ABC would sink this show...

It hasn't even premiered yet, has it?
No it hasn't, so you're right, speculating about it is a bit premature. I just hope it stays with the same approach they used last season and not back away from controversial issues.

I dont think ABC, although owned by disney, would do that to Boston Legal... retool the show because of its subject matter. Recall this is the same network that stood by Desperate Housewives when all the red staters outraged over it. Now you can say that DH had a lot higher ratings than BL so ABC had a financial incentive to not mess with success and let Cherry do his thing, but still I think, or i'd hate think, ABC would sink this show...
But ABC is the same network that backed away from some adverse issue that involved the parent company by not airing or pulling a news/magazine segment. To be honest, I don't remember what it was about, but at the time it seemed to be a pretty clear case of damage control from parent Disney.

It's funny that one person screams "right wing conspiracy" and people are slamming all the changes to the show - and they haven't even seen it yet.

I'm pretty sure there were no protests against Rhona or Monica and this is unrelated to any political movement.

Well, such speculation is not completely without substance given the players involved and their history.

As I noted earlier, I freely admit that condemnation at this point is pretty much baseless given that it hasn't aired yet.

Time to re-address this issue would be about 4-5 weeks into the season. :)

The problem with Boston Legal and the reason they screwed with the scheduling was all about ratings. They didin't retain all the DH viewers ABC felt they should. Grey's Anatomy did much better.

If they screw with the formula, it's because they want to try and boost ratings - and I'll probably stop watching. It was one of the smartest shows last year, and if they try to make it have broader appeal - it'll be just another lawyer show. If they do a massive re-tooling, it won't be to make it "cleaner" - it will be to make it dumber or less biting.

The only good news (assuming ABC doesn't cancel the show) is the plan was for a full 22 episodes this season + the 5 shows from last season that never aired - so we get a 27 episode season this year. Maybe the plan has changed since then, but I haven't heard anything.

I'm curious to see how the re-edit the first four episodes of season 2 deals with the two departing females, since the episodes were already in the can last year when Grey's Anatomy surprisingly but permanently preempted the return of BL. Presumably Mitra and Potter should still be in these episodes, with their departure worked in toward the end. Unless...

So it won't be until about a month from now that we'll be able to really see the new direction the show is going to take.

Personally, as much as I enjoy James Spader and William Shatner and the spicy banter with Candice Bergen (who I think is a positive addition to the show, in general), I will resent it if the show becomes primarily about 2 or 3 leading character people exclusively (as it seems they're going to make it, if you look at the posters on buses) instead of being about a much larger strong ensemble cast. As much as these 3 characters are smart and are given smart things to say and feel, I don't want to watch only these 3 for an hour.

In my opinion you can't have a strong dramedy without a strong ensemble cast with lots of characters who each have their own ongoing personal story you know all about as the show lifetime unfolds. None should be onscreen for an hour, and you need characters who could be headliners for any given week and you'd still enjoy it.

Think of the "greats" and how many largely equal (but each definitely strong enough to interest you for a single show) supporting characters you had... Hill Street Blues which was probably the finest (remember fabulous characters Phil Esterhaus and Grace Gardner and their ongoing storyline?) , LA Law, The Wire, Homicide, Boomtown, early Ally McBeal, NYPD Blue, etc.

In general, I would say that the really great shows are about more than just 2 people... and both sexes, along with their interactions. And with the elimination of two major females (including one primary love interest) from Boston Legal and the subsequent likely refining of the story focus to the "big stars" and "comedy", I fear the worst for the outcome here.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Cast of "Hill Street Blues". I'll bet you know the 7-year story on 97% of them, that's how good the writing and ensemble was, and how much screen time and story arc even the "minor" characters were given.

JEFFREY TAMBOR: Attorney/Judge Alan Wachtel (recurring)
DENNIS FRANZ: Det. Sal Benedetto (1983) / Lt. Norman Buntz (1985-1987)
VERONICA HAMEL: Joyce Davenport
KEN OLIN: Det. Harry Garibaldi (1984-1985)
DANIEL J. TRAVANTI: Captain Frank Furillo
MIMI KUZYK: Det. Patsy Mayo (1984-1985, recurring otherwise)
BARBARA BABCOCK: Grace Gardner (1981-85)
CHARLES HAID: Officer Andrew "Andy" Renko
ED MARINARO: Officer Joe Coffey (1981-1986)
PETER JURASIK: Sid "the snitch" Thurston (recurring, 1985-87)
BARBARA BOSSON: Fay Furillo (1981-1986)
BETTY THOMAS: Officer/Sgt. Lucy Bates
JOE SPANO: Sgt./Lt. Henry Goldblume
MEGAN GALLAGHER: Officer Tina Russo (1986-87)
ROBERT CLOHESSY: Officer Patrick Flaherty (1986-87)
ROBERT HIRSCHFELD: Officer Leo Schnitz (1983-85)
JON CYPHER: Chief Fletcher P. Daniels
VINCENT LUCHESSI: Captain Jerry Fuchs
JAMES SIKKING: Lt. Howard Hunter
KIEL MARTIN: Det. Johnny "J.D." LaRue
RENE ENRIQUEZ: Lt. Ray Calletano (1981-86)
ROBERT PROSKY: Sgt. Stanislaus "Stan" Jablonski (1984-1987)
MICHAEL CONRAD: Sgt. Phil Esterhaus (1981-1984)
GEORGE WYNER: ADA Irwin Bernstein (recurring, 1984-87)
GERRY BLACK: Det./Lt. Alf Chesley (1981-82)
TAUREAN BLACQUE: Det. Neal Washington
BRUCE WEITZ: Det. Mick Belker
MICHAEL WARREN: Officer Robert "Bobby" Hill
LISA SUTTON: Robin Tattaglia-Belker (recurring, 1985-1987)
TRINIDAD SILVA: Jesus Martinez
JENNIFER TILLY: Gina Srignoli (1984-1985)
PAT CORLEY: Chief Coroner Wally Nydorf

I don't remember seeing previews for an episode with Heather Locklear prior to Boston Legal being pre-empted by Grey's Anatomy. I wonder if they've decided not to air the last 4 episodes from Season 1 and just start fresh in Season 2. Anybody else remember differently? The last thing I remember is Shatner and Spader going in and threatening Dumbo (the guy from Benson with the big ears -- I don't remember his name) after he tried to get Denny removed from the firm.

I'll reserve judgement on the new direction, if there really is one, after watching a few episodes. I already like Locklear's line that has been in the previews for a while (to Denny) "I'll send you a pair of my pants so you can try to get into them on your own time." Unless that's the only line like that in the new season, I don't think the direction will have changed much.

Combined with their early hiatus last season and the cast changes this year, I'm out...

~Dan

I wrote this is another, earlier Boston Legal thread around here, but I really felt like ABC deliberately sabotaged and hamstrung this show when they blatantly took it off the air in the wake of Grey's Anatomy vs. putting it on another night and at least letting it finish out its season.

The irony of it all was: They prematurely ended BL on one of its best episodes ever, the Death Row episode. Spader really did a fantastic job in that episode.

What kind of message does that tactic send you? It sure doesn't send me a very positive one.

Ask me five years ago..."Can you imagine a show with James Spader, William Shatner, Candice Bergen and Betty White in it?" I'd have said "No". I'll hang around to see what happens.

BTW, the "Benson" guy is Rene Auberjonois.

BTW, the "Benson" guy is Rene Auberjonois.

But feel free to call him Odo.

Perhaps we should give the show a couple of episodes -- actually watch a few weeks -- to see how the changes shake out.

Just a thought.

I`m personally tired of Heather Locklear, but i never really took to her anyways, Yeah, she has a nice body and the Blonde hair, whats not to like right?

Well, for one she was with Tommy Lee, so that knocks her down a couple pegs from the get go, and i just never found her to be attractive, i`m not saying she isn't attractive, but to my own taste, she doesn`t do a thing for me...Kate from lost is more to my liking.

So, when i saw Locklear in the commercials, i wasn't all that happy, since BL is one of the shows i made sure to catch every week.

I`m personally tired of Heather Locklear, but i never really took to her anyways, Yeah, she has a nice body and the Blonde hair, whats not to like right?

Well, for one she was with Tommy Lee, so that knocks her down a couple pegs from the get go, and i just never found her to be attractive, i`m not saying she isn't attractive, but to my own taste, she doesn`t do a thing for me...Kate from lost is more to my liking.

So, when i saw Locklear in the commercials, i wasn't all that happy, since BL is one of the shows i made sure to catch every week.

I agree with your Heather Lockler assessment. That's the best "Boston Leal" could do for a sexy woman? And she's one of the smugest women on TV; she thinks she's miss super sexpot to the max. Please. Give me series regular
(or ex-regular to be) Mitra any day over Heather Locklear. Others?

To be honest, i haven't watched many shows she has been in, but when i have seen her, doesn't she always play the " Im too sexy for 99.9% of the male population, and on top of that i`m a real B**ch too"?..From the commercial, its the same old role for her, she must have it perfected by now, but that doesn't mean i care to watch it :rolleyes:

Rhona Mitra i did like, but Potter i wasnt all that crazy about.

“Boston Legal”
Order in the court: Shelved ABC drama returns on a new night

By Diego Vasquez MediaLifeMagazine.com Sep 27, 2005

“Boston Legal” did just fine behind ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” last season, but it never really thrived. The show averaged a 4.9 adults 18-49 rating, solid for a new show, but it lost nearly half of its lead-in in that demo.

Then in late March ABC plopped “Grey’s Anatomy” into “Legal's” 10 p.m. Sunday timeslot, initially as a temporary fill-in. But when the new show performed so much better, retaining 80 percent of “Housewives’” audience, ABC angered many media buyers by making the switch permanent for the remainder of the season and pulling “Legal” from the schedule until fall.

And so tonight “Legal” returns after some six months, and it does so in a less-cushy timeslot and against much tougher competition. It has a lot to prove. It is the lead-out to “Commander-in-Chief,” the new 9 p.m. drama that is drawing both high praise and lots of criticism, and it faces NBC’s “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” which last week had its highest-rated premiere ever.

“Legal” will surely fall off from last year, but even a 4.0 would be good for ABC in this slot, where “NYPD Blue” faded last year and “Blind Justice” flopped.

Tonight Rupert Everett guests, and so does Heather Locklear as a frosty murder defendant nicknamed “The Black Widow,” a role she’s perfected since the “Melrose Place” days. Also tonight, Julie Bowen, from NBC’s “Ed” and more recently, Jack’s (ex?) wife on “Lost,” joins the cast.

http://medialifemagazine.com/artman/publish/article_317.asp

Am I the only fan of this show that found Monica Potter to be the hottest of the 3 now departed females? Sure Rhona Mitra is hot and has plenty of "lattitude" as someone said, but shes scoring nothing on the cuteness scale. I only started watching this show last year for the Shatner-factor (I hadnt really seen much of James Spaders work), and Monica Potter turned out the be the #2 reason I continued to watch it.

I hope its still a good show...if anyone can make up for the changes, its Shatner and Spader.

Am I the only fan of this show that found Monica Potter to be the hottest of the 3 now departed females? Sure Rhona Mitra is hot and has plenty of "lattitude" as someone said, but shes scoring nothing on the cuteness scale. I only started watching this show last year for the Shatner-factor (I hadnt really seen much of James Spaders work), and Monica Potter turned out the be the #2 reason I continued to watch it.

I hope its still a good show...if anyone can make up for the changes, its Shatner and Spader.

I found Potter and her character bland and mousy. But that's just me.

I found Potter and her character bland and mousy. But that's just me.
Same here.

and Locklear does nothing for me either...in fact, I'm rather sick of seeing her face..

Am I the only fan of this show that found Monica Potter to be the hottest of the 3 now departed females? Sure Rhona Mitra is hot and has plenty of "lattitude" as someone said, but shes scoring nothing on the cuteness scale. I only started watching this show last year for the Shatner-factor (I hadnt really seen much of James Spaders work), and Monica Potter turned out the be the #2 reason I continued to watch it.

So where does Rhona Mitra fall on your cuteness scale - we already know Shatner is your #1 and Monica Potter is your #2 - would she make #3? ;)

Same here.

and Locklear does nothing for me either...in fact, I'm rather sick of seeing her face..

I liked her in TJ Hooker, but after that, she does nothing for me neither.

So then, Locklear is just a special guest for this show only? Heres to hoping ;)

I remember the scene where Spader is giving Potter a foot rub, and i found her feet to be as sexy as a Hobbit's foot. ;)

Monica Potter reminds me of the girl from Congo and The Truman Show. Cute, and everything is nice and in the right place - just the completed package doesn't do much for me.

The opposite of a young Ellen Barkin and Cher - where the individual pieces are not that attractive, but put it all together and the finished product is greater than the sum of its parts.

Monica Potter reminds me of the girl from Congo and The Truman Show. Cute, and everything is nice and in the right place - just the completed package doesn't do much for me.

The opposite of a young Ellen Barkin and Cher - where the individual pieces are not that attractive, but put it all together and the finished product is greater than the sum of its parts.

Jeez....I don't think that my great grandmother was around to see a young Cher.

goldie hawn

monica potter's character was perfect for the show....a more serious, good looking woman. mitra's character was more laid back..and she was definately hotter than potter. I hope this new girl is HOT, because the loss of those two could jeopardize the show...which i really like

Am I the only fan of this show that found Monica Potter to be the hottest of the 3 now departed females? Sure Rhona Mitra is hot and has plenty of "lattitude" as someone said, but shes scoring nothing on the cuteness scale. I only started watching this show last year for the Shatner-factor (I hadnt really seen much of James Spaders work), and Monica Potter turned out the be the #2 reason I continued to watch it.

I hope its still a good show...if anyone can make up for the changes, its Shatner and Spader.

Rhona M. has a hot bod, but in certain light, she looks LIKE A MAN, BABY!

I love Monica Potter :(

You need a good stoic blonde.

Am I the only fan of this show that found Monica Potter to be the hottest of the 3 now departed females?Probably. ;)

Monica Potter reminds me of the girl from Congo and The Truman Show. Cute, and everything is nice and in the right place - just the completed package doesn't do much for me.I suspect there's more to that package than has been allowed to meet the eye.

Yes, Mitra has it right out front, and you get a hit of the sex appeal immediately upon eying her. But just like with Lake Bell, much of that was intentionally accomplished through "proper attire" (and I'm not talking about "business casual").

I suspect that Monica Potter, if allowed to "dress properly" would not be nearly so prim and proper. I suspect there's a lot of hot going on under the covers there.

As an example, last night's "Las Vegas" had the Indian accountant girl initially all closed up and buttoned to the neck, and she looked like an Indian accountant character might be expected to look. But when Monica requested her to loosen up a bit, she opened the top buttons on her blouse and let her hair down, and lo and behold SHE WAS HOT!! She looked like a model!

I suspect Monica Potter has the same potential, and she's smart and bright as well. Too bad we'll never get to see it on this show.

I thought the Indian accountant on Vegas was HOT before she unbuttoned her blouse.

But when Monica requested her to loosen up a bit,
Speaking of Lara Flynn Boyle, her new hairdo is much better than the one she had in the opener...I don't think she has worn her hair that short since Twin Peaks...

Suicide indeed. Not only did they get rid of Potter and Mitra, they got rid of Kerry Washington (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0913488/) as well. I guess they're going to forget about the story arc of Alan Shore and Chelina kissing in Texas?

And now I see how they're taking Rhona Mitra out of the picture, what with this random British Alan Shore wannabe walking on and smooth talking Tara immediately. Julie Bowen's hot, but her character is a walking cliche. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed for the series, but the handwriting seems to be on the wall; we could be seeing an "Ally McBeal"-like breakdown.

But feel free to call him Odo.

He'll always be Father Mulcahy to me.

I thought the Indian accountant on Vegas was HOT before she unbuttoned her blouse.

Happen to notice Vanessa Marcil's tattoo's are gone?

"Has a tattoo on her lower back of a tribal symbol representing peace and love in the universe"

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000522/bio

The shot in the opening for the last 2 seasons of the brunette with her back to the camera dancing with a big tattoo on her back was her. If you look closely you can see where they have even tried to take it off her back in the newly cut opening.

http://img370.imageshack.us/img370/1412/vegas7yn.th.jpg (http://img370.imageshack.us/my.php?image=vegas7yn.jpg)

You could see it several times on the show in the past, when they didn't cover it very well.

In the 3rd season opener when Danny walks into the area where she is dressing, its been removed - and she turns around with no cut - so it's clearly her. Either alot of makeup over it or laser tattoo removal.

Must have been too much for the AARP James Caan crowd.

The shot in the opening for the last 2 seasons of the brunette with her back to the camera dancing with a big tattoo on her back was her. If you look closely you can see where they have even tried to take it off her backI didn't know that! Nice shimmy.

I thought the Indian accountant on Vegas was HOT before she unbuttoned her blouse.I too got a hint that this uptight persona was not real, that we were going to see a caterpillar-to-monarch transition, and that underneath was some real hot stuff just screaming to be let out. Nice eyes! Great hair. Hope we see more of her.

I'm beginning to look forward to the weekly shots around the Montecito's topless pool. Richard Lewis' conversation with a well-endowed barely-covered potential client was a riot.


In passing, I mentioned this last week and it was even more noticeable this week so I'll mention it again... the HD picture quality of "Las Vegas" has improved DRAMATICALLY! All of the stationary shots are absolutely sparklingly crisp and clear 1080i, with brilliantly vivid color and perfect image. And even the motion shots (including the high-speed camera flying through the casino and out into the city) are now no longer pixelated. Somehow, magically, either the bit rate or encoder "skill" or both have been vastly improved. I was quite startled at how good everything in the show looked last night.

And, even the sound quality has improved remarkably (not that it was ever bad). I'm listening on high-end Dolby Headphones and couldn't keep myself from observing that the whole show sounded terrific.

On a side note, I was hysterical laughing when the hooker/girlfriend ran after Danny who was running after her boyfriend, trying to get him to let her boyfriend go by offering him sex. "Sex! More than once! As often as you want! A threeway... I can set it up! I can make a phone call!" Very funny stuff (and she, too, was hot!).

okay, so back on track, what did everyone think of tonight's episode?

i thought it had its funny/dramatic moments, just like before. the cello playing lady on the stand was hilarious. william shatner also had his moments as usual. good overall return, i think.

We enjoyed. Shatner's comments when walking in & out of court..no comment.. I fathered your child or something like that... opening scene w/ shades & "baby elephant walk" music great!

I wrote this is another, earlier Boston Legal thread around here, but I really felt like ABC deliberately sabotaged and hamstrung this show when they blatantly took it off the air in the wake of Grey's Anatomy vs. putting it on another night and at least letting it finish out its season.

The irony of it all was: They prematurely ended BL on one of its best episodes ever, the Death Row episode. Spader really did a fantastic job in that episode.

What kind of message does that tactic send you? It sure doesn't send me a very positive one.


Good thoughts, perhaps, but ABC was getting more than double the 18-49 audience with "Grey's Anatomy" and was losing far less of the massive audience left by "Desperate Housewives".

"Boston Legal" was losing fully half of that audience at 10 PM, and "GA" lost less than a quarter.

So it wasn't a "tactic" at all. The "Grey's Anatomy" audience was simply much larger.

"BL" ended up in 27th place for the season (with 12.0 million viewers).

"GA" ended in 9th place with 18.0 million viewers.

With those numbers staring them in the face, the ABC execs made the only decision they could make going into the May sweeps.

For the season "DH" averaged 25.4 million viewers. "GA" held onto about three quarters of them. "BL" could only hold a bit less than half.

The BL premier had it all and did it for me again. Opening with Shatner and Spader with sunglasses doing the walk - great! Camera shots wre fantastic - Malcolm in court telling everyone he'd like to squeeze Tara's tush. Did ya see how many facial expressions were shot there? The part when the junior lawyer (not sure of his name) played he video clips of past presidents and other famous folks refering to Christ (although, I didn't quite get the Clinton - Monica Lewinsky thing there). A also dug how they brought that guy "Goober from Boston Public" as the judge back. (Sorry, "Goober", can't recall yer name, but you are a terrific actor.) Most bizarre of all, and very Dabid E. Lekkey, was the celloe thing - how original, huh!?

But what I want to know is...Did she or didn't she? Guilty or Innocent?

Great show - wife and I luv'd it. Can't wait for next week's.

Only foible I found wasa that they gave no seguay as to who Denise Bauer was or where she came from - she just shows up.

There wasn't time to have a segue to introduce the new characters. That whole sub-plot (using second season actors) was edited into an already completed first-season episode. I was amazed at how they did it (and wonder what sub-plot was eliminated to make room, and if it will get re-used in some future episode; I'm thinking it involved Monica Potter, since she was only in the scene where everyone was looking at the internet pictures, or Rene Auber...Odo).

I though the whole subplot with Julie Bowen and the cubs were lame. Everything else is good so far.

Opening got me right back into the mood - after a much too long hiatus.

Since Mitra and Potter are still there, we can't really make a determination as far as the impact on the show yet. But I do know, if Julie Bowen gives that little dweeb the time of day, she will forfeit the right to becoming the new "sex symbol" on the show. I'd look at her the same way Jerry did to his girlfriend when he found out she once dated Newman.

(From Marc Berman’s Programming Insider column of Wednesday, September 28, 2005 at Mediaweek.com)

“…Led by the series-premiere of Commander in Chief, ABC moved into the top-spot on Tuesday in the overnights and total viewers, beating No. 2 CBS by 10 percent in the overnights and 180,000 viewers. NBC was first among adults 18-49, one-tenth of a rating point above CBS and Fox. ABC ranked No. 4 in the demo.

Commander in Chief kicked-off with a stellar 12.6/18 in the overnights (#1), 16.15 million viewers (#1) and a 4.3/11 among adults 18-49 (#3t) from 9-10 p.m., building from a one-hour episode of the tired According To Jim (Overnights: #4, 5.7/ 9; Viewers: #2, 7.87 million; A18-49: #3, 2.8/ 8 from 8-9 p.m.) by a whopping 121 percent in the overnights, 8.28 million viewers and 54 percent among adults 18-49. At 10 p.m. on ABC, the second-season premiere of Boston Legal (Overnights: #2, 9.1/14; Viewers: #2, 12.55 million; A18-49: #3, 3.4/ 8) did not take full advantage of lead-in Commander in Chief, dropping by a considerable 28 percent in the overnights and 3.60 million viewers….”

We enjoyed. Shatner's comments when walking in & out of court..no comment.. I fathered your child or something like that... opening scene w/ shades & "baby elephant walk" music great!I thought it was the Theme from Peter Gunn? Was the premiere one of the 5 shows that was left over from last season?

I was surprised at home much I liked Commander In Chief and enjoyed the segue into this show.

I guess Mitra's departure will be explained via her breaking up with Allan Shore and going with this old boyfriend of hers...or some fallout thereof.

They'll probably have a quick moment where she takes a job at another firm (maybe the ex boyfriend's?() ,or leaves town, or some cliche like that and write her out. Potter doesn't look like she's even getting that. They've already pretty much phased her out.

I didn't realize how much I'd missed this show, truly, until I saw the shot with Spader and Shatner, laughed, and got right back into it. "Goober" as the judge is pure gold. I've always been a fan of Anthony Heald. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0372217/

Treat this show right, ABC!

It remains to be seen how well this show will do after the changes, but with last night's episode it's too bad that the most interesting case went with the new group of actors while the most boring case, an over-the-hill looking Locklear as a husband killer(really, can it be any less interesting than that?) goes with the Spader character.

I understand that this episode was probably re-cobbled together to introduce the new characters and pave the way for the departing ones, but that case with the cello playing woman was just plain stupid and ridiculous.

Spader and Shatner were great as usual, I just hope the changes are improvements.

I thought it was the Theme from Peter Gunn? Was the premiere one of the 5 shows that was left over from last season?

Yes -- confirmed by the CC -- and Yes

Opps Your right...Peter Gun.. I even have the CD. Thats what I get for posting at 230am

Just got to watch last night's episode. Hmmm... Can't believe they stuck Monica Potter in a collection of gawkers/extras hanging around a laptop leering at photos, giving her two seconds of onscreen time and then having the nerve to credit her as "Special Appearance by Monica Potter"!

On a technical note, I noticed a sudden and very dramatic change in HD picture quality at the tail end of the courtroom scene, when Rupert Everett propositions Tara. Suddenly, it went all grainy like it was shot at a completely different time by a totally different lower resolution camera (almost SD!) and inserted into the final edit. Maybe they changed their mind and rewrote/reshot many months later to fit their needs, as is very likely. Whatever the explanation, the whole rest of the show seemed to have that same slightly grainy background, having nothing to do with 720p vs. 1080i clarity. It was definitely intentional, and I didn't care for it. I prefer crystal clear, like BL has always been... right up to the last five minutes of this show.

On a subjective note, this show may be the first of my "record this series" entries that I delete. I was VERY disappointed.

All members of the new cast (especially Julie Bowen, and her underling/hot-for-her Garrett) are annoying and unattractive. And the writing seems to have been turned over to a totally new crew, which has ratcheted down the quality and turned up the winks/nods/supposedly-amusing-banter . Very insulting. And not very amusing, nor entertaining.

I also don't care for the fact that 80% of the show is in the courtroom. Very dull. These people are not real lawyers and the writing supporting their performances has degraded. And no judge would be so insipid to allow Alan Shore to insult him like a child. This is just plain juvenile writing. I don't want to follow these characters in the courtroom... I am much more entertained by their out-of-court interactions. That's where the comedy and clever writing belong, and what I tune in to watch. The courtroom is (or should be) just a background, and Kelley has apparently broken that notion.

I'm not interested in any of the few characters left from first season, and even Candice Bergen looked awful (skin cancer?) and had an underwritten part. The new additions are all young, innocuous and unobtrusive, probably cast that way so as not to detract from the three bigshots who are left... but who have been given no strong ensemble actors around them to set the stage properly.

Rupert Everett (he does NOT look good) and Rhona Mitra? I think not. A cello-playing witness, using improvised musical responses (like in "Fantasia") to questions? I think not. What were they thinking?

I was even greatly disappointed with the weekly "cigar scene". This show is now a caricature of what it was last year. And I don't mean that in a good way.

This series, judging from just this one first cobbled-together clunker of an episode intended to provide a transition into a newly retooled premise, has already jumped the shark right at the start of only its second season. Strangely Ally McBeal-like, deja vu all over again.

I had more fun watching "Amazing Race".

And I'll lust after Rhona Mitra every week on "Nip/Tuck", where she has been perfectly cast in a very adult, well-written and entertaining series.

I'm afraid BL has gone into the toilet. Wouldn't be overly surprised if it didn't make it through the complete season. It's already had a surprisingly poor overnight ratings result for the season debut.

I was not thrilled by this episode mostly because it was obviously not a true season premiere. They billed it as one but it obviously was just a recut version of an ep from last season. Their removal of Potter and replacement with these new, lame characters distracted me from the episode. It made it very choppy. The episode seemed to lack depth.

I loved this show last season but can't stand these new characters... the kid that did the religion video clips almost seemed like he's going to be a mini-Alan Shore. How lame.

yeah, i'm not a fan of the new kid. I should like stop watching David E Kelly shows. They always start out great and then disappoint.... there's nothing else worth watching at the 10-11 hour, so i'll still be watching.

yeah, i'm not a fan of the new kid. I should like stop watching David E Kelly shows. They always start out great and then disappoint.... there's nothing else worth watching at the 10-11 hour, so i'll still be watching.
For the 10-11 hour on Tuesdays, Nip/Tuck blows away this new Boston Legal, different concept to be sure, but some of the best TV available.

For the 10-11 hour on Tuesdays, Nip/Tuck blows away this new Boston Legal, different concept to be sure, but some of the best TV available.Agreed. And you can precede this with "Amazing Race" for sheer fun (exhausting, to be sure, but very enjoyable).

Of course with DVR/VCR equipment, who really cares what time something is on? It's truly a matter about whether the show is worth watching at all.

I'll give BL one more look-see next week before I make my final decision.

Close to Home with Jennifer Finnigan starts next week. Anything with Jennifer Finnigan in it is worth a squint.

Unbelievable!
And Lake Bell was axed at episode 5 of season 1.

What is David Kelley thinking?

That she'd better fit the part of a guy dressing like a woman? :D

Monica Potter and Rhona Mitra I like but I didn't like Lake Bell so I won't miss Bell. I think Julie Bowen's quite sexy and a nice addition. :)

I think Julie Bowen's quite sexy and a nice addition. :)

I'd agree, but she seems really mis-cast as a lawyer.

As long as Spader and Shatner are the primary focus I'm happy. Spader has got to be one of the most dead-on fabulous actors of our time and never fails to knock the Alan Shore role right out of the park. The chemistry between Shatner's Denny and Spader's Shore is sublime, and both were in their usual excellent form delivering some wonderful dialogue in tonight's (10/4) second episode.

I actually felt bad for Spader's character in Ep#2. He is a fine actor and really does bring the persona of Alan Shore to life.

WOW! Loved it, great story. PQ was right on for me. Sound/music was fantastic - WAR!

Questions... Why the heck was Haether Locklear in this episode? Anyone could have played her very atoick part (better). Where was Monica Potter? Sje was on the credits but I didn't see her.

Excellent job, david E. Kelley. Keep this show rockin'!


nc

"Why are we here?" Great closing argument from james Spader at the end. He has really developed Alan Shore well on this show. When the series began, I thought he was a dud - very pompus and not too deep. But since this season bagn, he has become quite dimensional. And playing off Shatner at times - pure synergy.


nc

I agree, Locklear didn't seem to add to much to the show. Seemed like very few lines. Maybe just the advertising that she would be on the show was the gimmick.

Questions... Why the heck was Haether Locklear in this episode? Anyone could have played her very atoick part (better). Where was Monica Potter? Sje was on the credits but I didn't see her.


This was a last season episode (when Potter was a regular) but they added the scenes with this season new regular Julie Bowen. So I imagine Monica Potter's scenes are all on the cutting room floor. Last week she was only seen in a group shot.

Why the heck was Haether Locklear in this episode? Anyone could have played her very atoick part (better). David Kelley should have asked his wife to play this part. Spader's performance was great last night and the script was outstanding.

(From Marc Berman’s Programming Insider column of Wednesday, October 5, 2005 at Mediaweek.com)

“…a second-place finish for Boston Legal, with a comfortable, albeit non-spectacular 8.9/14 in the overnights, 11.86 million viewers and a 3.7/ 9 among adults 18-49 at 10 p.m.…”

Love Boston Legal but can do without David Kelleys political rants. This does not mean I agree or disagree with any of them, just that I am quite tired of Hollywood types using their positions in the media to forward their agendas whether or not I agree or disagree. Lets keep it to mindless entertainment...I get enough reality on MSNBC or FOX or CNN etc.

(From Marc Berman’s Programming Insider column of Wednesday, October 5, 2005 at Mediaweek.com)

“…a second-place finish for Boston Legal, with a comfortable, albeit non-spectacular 8.9/14 in the overnights, 11.86 million viewers and a 3.7/ 9 among adults 18-49 at 10 p.m.…”


Good 'nuff.

There's really no reason this show should be treated with the clear disrespect that it was in the wake of Grey's Anatomy's success.

nice jab by spader last night at ABC "for bill maher to get cancelled for saying something politically incorrect on a show entitled Politically Incorrect!"

I've seen every episode of The Practice since the last two seasons and every single episode of Boston Legal.

I have to say that the last two episodes have really been lacking. Since Monica's character has been axed and we have these new characters to fill that time, the show is very unorganized. Since they were likely shot way too many months apart and the script was not originally written they way it has been edited, the new characters don't even intermingle with the original characters. It's like they tried to edit an entirely new show (with characters we've never seen before) into a show we all love - ruining it.

It does seem to be much more boring and the characters are getting much more unrelatable. If they dumb this show down for the "general population", I hope it bombs and gets picked up by another network that will give it what it deserves. If this show was on HBO, it would be the best show ever to be put on camera.

Once Mitra's gone, the only character that is in this Practice spin-off that was actually on The Practice will be Spader.

As good as Spader and Shatner are, they aren't good enough to carry this entire show. And these new characters feel more like ER med students than leading roles.

Bowen's assistants are dull. They add nothing.

I'd never seen it before, but because Commander in Chief was the lead in, I saw it and thought that Shatner was hilarious.

I think it's better than I thought it might be as a spin-off to begin with. The Shore character, as introduced in the Practice, was fascinating and played wonderfully by Spader. I worried about his moving to this spin-off, but so far, so good. What I don't get is, when they decided to cut the last 5 shows last year, why not just add them to the beginning of this year in total. They could then just edit the final show of the 5 with Candace Bergen et. al. making some "decision" on staffing and explain how Potter and Mitra moved on, etc. That would have left the 5 shows as cohesive entities, less mish-mash editing for 5 shows and only effect 1, the last of last season which would then more logically lead into this season. It would also provide additional episodes to reduce repeats and long 3-4 week absences that usually occur mid-season in the middle of a good story.

The PQ here was excellent as was the sound. I concur with the doubts about Locklear. By the way, not to go off-topic, but as the post above references Commander-In-Chief (which I like A LOT) - did anyone else notice the apparent softening of Gena Davis' face in the limo ride scene? It was normal in the other scenes - but almost looked like she saw the first edits and realized HDTV was doing her skin no favors in that scene and it really looked artificially softened/edited to me. Just curious.

By the way, not to go off-topic, but as the post above references Commander-In-Chief (which I like A LOT) - did anyone else notice the apparent softening of Gena Davis' face in the limo ride scene? It was normal in the other scenes - but almost looked like she saw the first edits and realized HDTV was doing her skin no favors in that scene and it really looked artificially softened/edited to me. Just curious.
I noticed that, her skin was so smooth it seemed unreal or fake. I also don't recall her speaking as if her jaw was wired shut as it seemed last night, weird...

As far as BL, I can't wait until we get to the new episodes as these cobbled together jobs are terrible, and Bowen and her crew can disappear forever as far as I'm concerned, completely uninteresting and unnecessary.

"Why are we here?" Great closing argument from james Spader at the end. He has really developed Alan Shore well on this show. When the series began, I thought he was a dud - very pompus and not too deep. But since this season bagn, he has become quite dimensional.I agree he's a good actor, but give some credit to the writers. Spader isn't the only one "developing" the character.

That said, apart from Alan Shore's closing argument, I found this episode to be annoyingly predictable and too "clever" for itself. There are just too many wise-cracking smartasses (Spader, Shatner, Bergen, White, Locklear, and that English guy, whatever his name is), and not enough "straight" characters on the show now.

Here's hoping that, once they get through the transition from last season's leftovers, this will subside, and we can watch Shore and Crane do their thing opposite the rest of the cast, like it was in the beginning.

Did I mention I can't stand Candice Bergen? :mad:

I have always had a thing for Monica Potter....but I've had thing for Julie Bowen and Heather Locklear too.

However, this is looks like a T J Hooker remake with Shattner and Locklear together.

Oh the agony.....

I still don't watch the show however.

Such is life.

What have they done to my favorite show?

Two episodes and Alan hasn't really done anything unethical. The only really good parts have been Alan's closing and the scenes with just Alan and Denny.

And if we never see Judge Mass-a-chew-setts again it will be way too soon.

I too will miss Tara.

What's with "Goober"? He has a funny way with his mouth when he talks. Odd, huh?


nc

I think show will get better when someone other than Candace Bergen gets to interact with Julie Bowen (and for more than 10 second snippits). What a hack job these first few have been. Unbelievably clear that there are two completely separate story arcs going on that flow together terribly.

Then again, I think I have mad cow disease.

I think show will get better when someone other than Candace Bergen gets to interact with Julie Bowen (and for more than 10 second snippits). What a hack job these first few have been. Unbelievably clear that there are two completely separate story arcs going on that flow together terribly.

Then again, I think I have mad cow disease.
Hopefully, I don't recall how many were left from last season, I think it was 7, so 5 more hack-jobs maybe?

Hopefully, I don't recall how many were left from last season, I think it was 7, so 5 more hack-jobs maybe?

I thought it was only 4 episodes of last season that got caught out in limbo. So I would think only 2 more?...

According to TV.com, there were 17 eps aired the first season, the last one on 3/20/05. For season two they have the 4th ep titled "In Closing", I'm guessing that this may have been the original end of the first season, that would have been 22 eps which sounds about right. So maybe only 2 more eps until the "new" season starts..?

Pretty sure Fred has this info in his "memory banks" somewhere.. :)

Shark jumping.

Edwin Starr-like performance in a club? Is this "Ally McBeal"? Kelley just can't give it up. This show now has a musical heart? Where's Vonda?

Then repeat the performance in court? Come on!!

I'm finding all of this courtroom-centric stuff and playing lawyer growing very tedious and boring. I'm finding Betty White and Bernie very tedious and boring. I'm finding Candice Bergen very tedious and boring.

And hey... where is Rene? Did he disappear? He's still in the credits, but MIA. And what 1-second spot did Monica Potter have this week to justify her "special appearance" billing?

Rupert Everett and Rhona Mitra? Come on!!

Alan Shore's continued insult barrage at the judge? Come on!

Denny Crane's progressively more and more grating and insipid Denny Cranisms? Come on! They're not amusing any longer. They're just tedious and boring.

And the associate lawyer traps the opposition priest-lawyer with sexual advances? This is writing? Come on!



Where is "Hill Street Blues" when we need it? When will "The Wire" return? Where is "Huff" when we need him?

Heard that "Weeds" has been picked up for a second season of 10 episodes. Good news.

Had to replay the "no bowel cancer for you" line from "Extras" this week. Couldn't stop laughing.



If "Boston Legal" continues to go farcical and McBeal-like, it will be history on my DVR. Very disappointing.

Edwin Starr-like performance in a club? Is this "Ally McBeal"? Kelley just can't give it up. This show now has a musical heart? Where's Vonda?

Then repeat the performance in court? Come on!!


Now how did you ever miss the opportunity to insert "Good God, y'all" at this point in your post?

When will "The Wire" return? Where is "Huff" when we need him?

Heard that "Weeds" has been picked up for a second season of 10 episodes. Good news.

That's great news about "Weeds". "The Wire" and "Huff" both return sometime in 2006...all three are very good TV.

Shark jumping.

Edwin Starr-like performance in a club? Is this "Ally McBeal"? Kelley just can't give it up. This show now has a musical heart? Where's Vonda?

Then repeat the performance in court? Come on!!

I'm finding all of this courtroom-centric stuff and playing lawyer growing very tedious and boring. I'm finding Betty White and Bernie very tedious and boring. I'm finding Candice Bergen very tedious and boring.

And hey... where is Rene? Did he disappear? He's still in the credits, but MIA. And what 1-second spot did Monica Potter have this week to justify her "special appearance" billing?

Rupert Everett and Rhona Mitra? Come on!!

Alan Shore's continued insult barrage at the judge? Come on!

Denny Crane's progressively more and more grating and insipid Denny Cranisms? Come on! They're not amusing any longer. They're just tedious and boring.

And the associate lawyer traps the opposition priest-lawyer with sexual advances? This is writing? Come on!



Where is "Hill Street Blues" when we need it? When will "The Wire" return? Where is "Huff" when we need him?

Heard that "Weeds" has been picked up for a second season of 10 episodes. Good news.

Had to replay the "no bowel cancer for you" line from "Extras" this week. Couldn't stop laughing.



If "Boston Legal" continues to go farcical and McBeal-like, it will be history on my DVR. Very disappointing.

LOl, that's exactly what I said when the show opened up in that night club. "Ally McBeal" was off my tongue in a matter of seconds. You're exactly right!

Was it on Ally McBeal where they went to California for a case and the judge was the same guy (or a similar guy) that pronounced (with contempt) mass-a-CHEW-sits ???

It seems very familiar, but not sure if it was McBeal or the Practice....

That's great news about "Weeds".This insider info from the gardener-guy who keeps my house plants alive, who also works for the owner of Guess Jeans, who had a dinner party at which my gardener-guy was seated next to someone who turned out to be a producer on "Weeds", who provided the tidbit about renewal for 10 more episodes.

I hope it's true. I love Mary-Louise Parker, Elizabeth Perkins, Kevin Nealon, and all the other incidental family members and Agrestic inhabitants. Overall I think the casting is terrific. I feel that the "Meghan" character is performed beautifully. And now that we've seen her dad and family a bit, I enjoy them too. The whole dope dealer home and character group, the competitive drug dealer and his attraction to Nancy (and decision to "protect" her, for sentimental reasons), these are all very rich and satisfying arcs.

Great show. Fabulous HD picture quality and sound. Intimate reality and real people and real situations and real dialog. Reminds me of "Huff" in that way.

This stuff could never be done on network TV. I'm glad there's pay-TV as an optional outlet for this type of adult drama/comedy.

Guess you can't have a "Weeds" dinner party without inviting the gardner. :)

Was it on Ally McBeal where they went to California for a case and the judge was the same guy (or a similar guy) that pronounced (with contempt) mass-a-CHEW-sits ???

It seems very familiar, but not sure if it was McBeal or the Practice....
It was The Practice.

Not to belabor my dissatisfaction with the episodes already aired from the current season, but...

Most Undeserved Promotion To Main Character and Billing: Mark Valley who plays Brad Chase. This guy was uninteresting and uncharismatic last year, and he remains unexciting. His character was created as the arch-enemy of Alan Shore, especially when it came to competition for the female of the species. As such, he's better off silent (and so are we). Giving him major speaking assignments just points out his lack of excitement and charisma.

Most Unnecessary Retention of Characters and Development of Associated Story Arc: Betty White (Catherine Piper) and Leslie Jordan (Bernie). What are these two still doing in the show????? If you wanted to retool and improve things, write these two out... and now!

Most Grating and Irritating New Character(s): Julie Bowen and her two junior associates. A personal divorce storyline?? That's the best they could come up with to let her and her crew have something to say and do? I especially don't like to see either of the junior associates on the screen. Very badly drawn characters, badly cast, amateurishly performed, and comes across as forced "filler".

Also, Candice Bergen does not look good. Something's changed... maybe they reshot some new footage to insert into the old episodes, and she's 6 months older. But she does not look good, they're not dressing her well or doing stunning makeup or hair, they're not giving her really sniping things to say like they used to, and it's unfortunate her character is now one of the "big 3".


"Karen Sisco" redux. Unless the true new-season episodes show a marked improvement over what we've seen them do so far, I fear these reworked 4 episodes from last season now being used as transitional speak portents of doom for this once-great show.

Last night's ratings show clearly why ABC moved "Grey's Anatomy" into the Sunday night at 10 PM ET/PT time slot:

(From Marc Berman’s Programming Insider column of Monday, October 10, 2005 at Mediaweek.com)

”…Desperate Housewives led into Sunday runner-up Grey’s Anatomy, with a 12.9/20 in the overnights, 18.45 million viewers and an 8.2/19 among adults 18-49 at 10 p.m. Although retention for Grey’s Anatomy out of Housewives was just 74 percent in the overnights, 72 percent in total viewers and 75 percent among adults 18-49, this is still a marked improvement over former time period occupant Boston Legal…”

"It keeps the bad dreams away." Classic Shatner.

Wow, that explains why i havnt had a bad dream in years. Good show tonight.

Spader and Shatner were great tonight, the rest of it I could have easily done without, maybe in the future there will be an technology option to select just their performances.. :D

"Did you say, Klingons?"

Great show! LOved the Klingon reference.

I also picked up the Brad Chase comment about "knitting afghans in prison"...ala Martha Stewart.

One thing that I thought was completely unncessary was the whole thing with the priest/minister. Was it really right to even do this? I don't think it was entertaining at all to show a man of the cloth sexually lusting after a young, black, female lawyer. Come on, guys, can't we go elsewhere here?

Music and PQ were awesome.


nc

Did anyone notice, particularly towards the end, that when the bumper music came in to transition scenes or in/out of commercial a delay in the surround speakers?

I didn't notice it everytime, but there were at least two instances where I could hear the surrounds delayed from the rest of the speakers by almost 2 seconds (a ridiculous amount of time of delay) during the bumper music.

Did ya get the one where Shatner is in bed and, um, passes gas?

nc

Did anyone notice, particularly towards the end, that when the bumper music came in to transition scenes or in/out of commercial a delay in the surround speakers?

I didn't notice it everytime, but there were at least two instances where I could hear the surrounds delayed from the rest of the speakers by almost 2 seconds (a ridiculous amount of time of delay) during the bumper music.

I can confirm that I did hear this as well. It must have been on the master or from the network. I'm in Houston.

Also, the scene where Candice was giving advice to Betty was really really soft. It almost looked like they focused the camera somewhere between two ladies sitting on the bench, but as I looked closer, it appears to have been softened in post. Perhaps a last minute change due to the "Candice not looking so good" comments earlier in this thread?

Spader and Shatner were great tonight, the rest of it I could have easily done without, maybe in the future there will be an technology option to select just their performances.. :D

There is now, it's called a DVR.

(From Marc Berman’s Programming Insider column of Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at Mediaweek.com)

“…Despite the lead-in support from Commander in Chief, ABC’s Boston Legal cannot stop NBC’s competing Law & Order: SVU at 10 p.m. Law & Order led the 10 p.m. hour with a typically potent 11.2/17 in the overnights, 14.37 million viewers and a 5.6/15 among adults 18-49. Second was Boston Legal (Overnights: 8.8/14; Viewers: 11.18 million; A18-49: 3.5/ 9)…”

10/18/2005

Not sure what was funnier - seeing Berry White in the replay of his head getting slammed twice, or her re-enactment in court, and his head ladning in Alan's lap.

Shatner gave a few classic lines, the one where he is sitting at the sidwwalk and Alan comes over to him.

I think the junior associates thing and the priest/minister/pastor story is aweful.

This episodes was all Shatner's.

BTW, anyone else see this in 720p? It ususally is 1080i for me - Nashville Comcast.

nc

10/18/2005

Not sure what was funnier - seeing Berry White in the replay of his head getting slammed twice, or her re-enactment in court, and his head ladning in Alan's lap.

Shatner gave a few classic lines, the one where he is sitting at the sidwwalk and Alan comes over to him.

I think the junior associates thing and the priest/minister/pastor story is aweful.

This episodes was all Shatner's.

BTW, anyone else see this in 720p? It ususally is 1080i for me - Nashville Comcast.

nc

All of ABC's HD programming is native 720p, unless your local station is for some reason "upconverting" it to 1080i.

Or your STB is outputting a fixed 1080i - then your STB is converting.

Or your STB is outputting a fixed 1080i - then your STB is converting.

I have no STB, only cc.

nc

Great show! LOved the Klingon reference.

I don't think it was entertaining at all to show a man of the cloth sexually lusting after a young, black, female lawyer. Come on, guys, can't we go elsewhere here?
nc

The preacher storyline was not that great but anytime they want to show that female lawyer seducing somebody, I'll be watching.

10/18/2005

Not sure what was funnier - seeing Berry White in the replay of his head getting slammed twice, or her re-enactment in court, and his head ladning in Alan's lap.
The reference to all the L&O shows was funny. I love the double entendres this show throws out.. :D

Shatner gave a few classic lines, the one where he is sitting at the sidwwalk and Alan comes over to him.
The dig about his old time slot was hilarious.. :p His closing in the trial was not very good though, usually while being outrageous, they make sense but this one was pretty weak.

I think the junior associates thing and the priest/minister/pastor story is aweful.

It's worse than awful, it's garbage, not even worthy of day-time soap status.

Watch this show with a Comcast DVR and a 1080i display and the PQ and sound is always very good.

Another hilarious moment was when Betty White kept saying, "He said he could taste death". The horror and the comedy here is incredible.

BTW, why did Bernard leave the show? He was a great character. He played that molester on Boston Public a few times and that was terrible role.

Keep him on BL as a reoccuring character!


nc

Just watched this week's episode.

It continues to deteriorate. Badly.

Why does each episode now have to start with high-energy McBeal-like music?

Was Shatner in the courtroom costumed as a minuteman supposed to be funny? Enertaining? I'm surprised no one called 911 to have him sedated and removed. Absolute idiocy.

A gun in the courtroom? And loaded? How'd he get past the metal detectors? Even after he fired it he's allowed to behave as if he's still a lawyer? And Candice Bergen congratulates him later, as if this farce actually would actually be helpful to their client???

Spader on his own, doing lawyer speeches in court, has lost my interest. And always drinking scotch and smoking cigars? This is the best they can do to fill out the hour? Wading out into the Boston streets night with fishing gear? This is supposed to be amusing and entertaining?

The storyline with the two associates is dreadful. No panties? Instant sex (next week) with the opposition's intern? That stupid pastor?

Dreadful. All in all, just dreadful. And this is the NEW season's shows now. Looks like Betty White is gone too, fortunately.

Sorry... no personalities left in this show that I admire and really want to see each week. And there is absolutely no ongoing storyline to hold my interest (aside from Shatner's dementia, which I don't find entertaining anymore). Two more "probationary" episodes left for me, and then it's time to delete the series recording entry.

Shatner's deterioration is basically writing him out of the show. They need to give him some miracle drug or remove a brain tumor that was applying pressure - and get him back to early Season 1 status. People shouldn't be pitying Denny Crane.

Shatner's deterioration is basically writing him out of the show. They need to give him some miracle drug or remove a brain tumor that was applying pressure - and get him back to early Season 1 status. People shouldn't be pitying Denny Crane.

My wife and I noted the same thing last night. Haven't watched this show more than 4 times. Love Shatner's character, but am already tired of where they are going with it. Hell Spader and Shatner are starting to look like the same guy (what about a diet James?).

Man, the camera effects on this show are really bad! Anyone else bothered by the constant zooming and panning when a character speaks? I'm guessing they are attempting to add punch to certain scenes, but it looks really amateurish. Good camera work should not be distracting.

I guess it complements the show's weak story lines :)

Last night's episode was a great disappointment. If it weren't for the lovely (but miscast) Julie B., I would have turned the show off.

What do these junior associates have to add?

Why are they firing Betty White?

Why the heck did Allen break out in song in the restaurant?


I did not understand any of it. BL was a let-down.


nc

Shatner's lechery thing, though, is worth about 3 vintage Saturday Night Lives and 1 week of Comedy Central's Daily Show. His initial apology to his co-worker who filed a harassment suit, with his deadpan 'analysis' of chubbiness and chubby sex...well, that was side-splitting funny. :D Give him an Emmy and play that segment at the awards. :) (No, to head off the inevitable comment, harassment isn't funny, but humor pointing out its stupidity is worthwhile.) The musket in the courtroom was overboard, but overall I continue enjoying the series. -- John

Mark my words. This show will get cancelled after this season (if not, before).

Way to go ABC for messing up a fantastic show!!! I don't even watch this crap anymore and I have much less on TV to watch anymore. I absolutely HATE J.J Abrams shows. And DH isn't allowed on my TV (by me).

Meanwhile, we're stuck with Grey's Anatomy. Don't get me wrong, I like Grey's Anatomy, just not as much as I liked Boston Legal.

BL was tweaked from greatness into nothingness.

ABC, is quickly turning into $#!+.

Mark my words. This show will get cancelled after this season (if not, before).

Way to go ABC for messing up a fantastic show!!! I don't even watch this crap anymore and I have much less on TV to watch anymore. I absolutely HATE J.J Abrams shows. And DH isn't allowed on my TV (by me).

Meanwhile, we're stuck with Grey's Anatomy. Don't get me wrong, I like Grey's Anatomy, just not as much as I liked Boston Legal.

BL was tweaked from greatness into nothingness.

ABC, is quickly turning into $#!+.

Is it ABC's fault of the fault of the producers? Did ABC order all of this nonsense?

Is it ABC's fault of the fault of the producers? Did ABC order all of this nonsense?Effectively, yes.

By ABC's keeping "Grey's Anatomy" on instead of restoring BL from its one month hiatus late last season (because of the surprise ratings success of GA, and the higher retention of DH viewers than BL was getting), it was obvious that ratings and demographics are what it's all about.

That told Kelley he had better punch up the show in order to boost ratings, especially with the much-sought-after key demographic. Else, history.

And that triggered Kelley to do what he's done...

Unfortunately he's ruined the show.

And that triggered Kelley to do what he's done...Unfortunately he's ruined the show.

As he generally does. Kelley is an enigma to me at times. He comes up with some really interesting and creative stuff and then seems to go "David Letterman" with it with his near incessant, over-the-top silliness. It's one thing to be creatively silly and make a point or entertain, but Kelley has become the king of extremes in this. He creates edgy, clever shows (Picket Fences, Ally McBeal, Practice, Boston Public, Boston Legal) and once they get rolling, he lets them roll completely downhill with silliness that is so extreme it quickly summons their loss of fan interest and cancellation. As in McBeal and Public, the singing teachers/lawyers oft times have no purpose but oddity. It can start out fun, but is almost always driven into the ground.

Much like they are doing with BL now. Shatner's character has become more pitiable than interesting and Spader doesn't have near as much "ethically challenged" story interest and courtroom squabbles as he used to - which he did so well and made his character so wickedly charming. I had some hope when BP's Guber showed up as the old judge from The Practice (Mass-a-chewww-settts), but he was quickly gone, replaced by Spader singing Music Man about salmon in a restaurant, Shatner firing rifles in court, ad nauseum. I am close to giving up on this typical Kelley disintegration, but I will hold on a bit longer. Bring on the imaginary dancing baby at the next trial! Let Kelley go out in style.

Much like they are doing with BL now. Shatner's character has become more pitiable than interesting and Spader doesn't have near as much "ethically challenged" story interest and courtroom squabbles as he used to - which he did so well and made his character so wickedly charming. I had some hope when BP's Guber showed up as the old judge from The Practice (Mass-a-chewww-settts), but he was quickly gone, replaced by Spader singing Music Man about salmon in a restaurant, Shatner firing rifles in court, ad nauseum. I am close to giving up on this typical Kelley disintegration, but I will hold on a bit longer. Bring on the imaginary dancing baby at the next trial! Let Kelley go out in style.
I was thinking almost the same thing myself last night after I watched BL.

The Shatner role has become a caricature -- and it wasn't exactly grounded to begin with. I liked the way he was somewhat wooly but would suddenly pull it together when needed. Now he's a punch line.

Don't get me wrong; I still laugh. The whole "chubby" thing was so funny I pulled a muscle. But it's not as interesting as it was. I did like the addition of Candice Bergen, because I think she's an amazingly funny woman, and I love biting wit in any case. I figured she'd be a great foil for "Denny Crane," but now the Crane character is -- as you said -- pitiable.

(And I also had high hopes for the ex-Guber. I loved his judge character on The Practice. But even his conflict with Spader escalated out of proportion.)

--chris

Mark my words. This show will get cancelled after this season (if not, before).

Way to go ABC for messing up a fantastic show!!! I don't even watch this crap anymore and I have much less on TV to watch anymore. I absolutely HATE J.J Abrams shows. And DH isn't allowed on my TV (by me).

Meanwhile, we're stuck with Grey's Anatomy. Don't get me wrong, I like Grey's Anatomy, just not as much as I liked Boston Legal.

BL was tweaked from greatness into nothingness.

ABC, is quickly turning into $#!+.Wow, surprise that a Kelly show looks and feels like a Kelly show? Hmmm.... I have not been a regular BL watcher from the beginning, but I've probably watched at least half of the ep though. I will say this, anyone expecting a Kelly show to approximate reality needs a reality check IMO ;).

Yeah, they are sometimes way over the top and often out of control but there is almost always a serious underlying moral/ethical/emotional question being pondered in the ep's. Yes, some of the stuff is stupid, but some of it is also pretty damn funny as well. Someone mentioned they though Julie Bowen was miscast in her role. I thought her performance in last night's ep was great. The inevitable balcony scenes? Sometimes there's some very good stuff there. Denny: "I'm not having sex with you". If that didn't crack you up you're just not cut out to be a Kelly show fan I'm afraid :).

As far as Grey's Anatomy goes, I've never understood the big attraction at all. Watched an ep or so and quickly dismissed it.


ron

The problem seems to be that Kelley, or whomever is driving this thing, doesn't know when to stop. I've followed Spader's Alan Shore character since he was introduced on "The Practice". Even there, the Alan Shore character was completely and recklessly out of place with the tone of that show, but for me, that was part of the appeal. I loved the way Shore made the other overly serious characters on "The Practice" seem so stupid, but even this was accomplished by sacrificing the original tone of the show.

I don't think they had a solid concept for BL from the start, and regrettably, this season they are clearly giving it the "sitcom" treatment, which is an insult to the writing and acting talent available to this show and to its viewers. There's nothing wrong with the show being intelligently funny, but now it's more often stupidly funny. I'm still watching because of the appeal of Spader and Shatner, and because the writing is often still very clever, but look what they've done with the formerly fascinating, dark and edgy Alan Shore: They've turned him into a marshmallow.

They've turned him into a marshmallow.That's what women (or women leaving) can do to you ;). I suspect it's an adjustment phase and he'll be back. That's also why I thought the Crane line was so good. They're doing the male bonding/friendship thing on the balcony and Alan is getting all sentimental and, well, marshmallow-like, then Denny abruptly fires off the line to cut through the syrupy sweet tone.


ron

... this season they are clearly giving it the "sitcom" treatment, which is an insult to the writing and acting talent available to this show and to its viewers. There's nothing wrong with the show being intelligently funny, but now it's more often stupidly funny. I'm still watching because of the appeal of Spader and Shatner, and because the writing is often still very clever, but look what they've done with the formerly fascinating, dark and edgy Alan Shore: They've turned him into a marshmallow.Well, I think a major factor in what's bringing this season down (haven't watched this week's show yet) is the presence of TOO MUCH COURTROOM STUFF!

The "charm" of this show last season was the out-of-court goings on, and interactions between the various players. The balcony scene that ended each episode was a fitting end to an exhausting or frustrating or emotional series of events that had occurred that day or that show. Courtroom antics actually played a relatively minor part of the onscreen time, with preparation for the courtroom appearance and related incidents being more significant to character development.

Now, we're watching "LA Law" or something, with multiple courtroom episodes (from several different lawyers) fill the hour. Of course there's the opening presentation and sequence, and the closing presentation and sequence, and maybe one more scene in the middle with some related out-of-court problem or bickering or crisis. Boring! Predictable! And irritating singing! And irritating and predictable responses of every judge!

But there's very little spark left, and seemingly very little truly clever and intelligent writing for James Spader to deliver... as an "ethically challenged" person, which made him far more interesting and entertaining than as a pure lawyer in a courtroom.

I think the primary thing bringing the show down is that Alan doesn't do anything unethical anymore. (Or, very interesting either.)

The secondary thing is that Denny's mad cow disease has progressed too far.

Is it ABC's fault of the fault of the producers? Did ABC order all of this nonsense?

Nonsense? You must be talking about 'Lost', the most moronic show ever made. It's true that 'Boston Legal' is not as good as it used to be but it's still quite good and last night's episode was very funny.

R

This week's episode was very good.

Well, I think a major factor in what's bringing this season down (haven't watched this week's show yet) is the presence of TOO MUCH COURTROOM STUFF!


When you get around to watching this episode you'll find less "COURTROOM STUFF", so that may satisfy some of your distaste of late. I rather enjoyed the past skillful presentations in court when they tackled some of the real issues facing us today. This week's attack on Ford pickups catching fire was a good treatise. I was hoping something further would have been developed about the farmed salmon issue.

However, I am finding a lot of the "filler" is becoming gratuitous and lends nothing to the whole BL premise. This week's was the file room sex by the jr. associate. This part has become more soap opera than I would prefer.

I will not stop watching, yet, as I think/hope the writers have more meat in store for Denny and Alan to chew on. I just hope I don't become disappointed further.

They have done a horrible thing. Now Spader & Shatner are only in about 1/3 of the show. The new people (who are very boring) take up the rest of the show. And losing 3 regulars (including Betty White???) is not understandable. Kelley has shot himself in the penis.

That pretty much sums up last night's eposode of BL. Funny as hell (ending). Shatnew and Spader witting there in those pick oufits smoking cigars. I didn't appreciate Spder going off about the war in court and all throughout the show. I just don't think this show should be the forum for such political statements, IMHO.

nc

If the young male lawyer's lips get any pink-er, he'll have to start wearing a dress to work. If someone can get a screen shot of him near the end in front of the paralegal's apartment - please post it. These make-up artists (unless it's the same person that works on Surface) and actors need to see how ridiculous they look in HD.

Disagree.
Wife & I both like the "causes" & the "statements" being presented in a comical & serious manner. Spader's character, as others, shows real passion & enthusiasm!!!

It is not whether you agree or disagree with the statements any one person makes- as was in the show- its more about can we all talk about those subjects- yes we should be able to talk about subjects- & agree to disagree some times and still remain passionate about beliefs yet still remain friends ...
Loved Alan's line ~~ "I was for the war, then against, then for..."

Love how Alan & Denny on opposite sides of issue- get heated-Denny still shows up in court in the back & was dressed professional..the last scene were they did share friend time on balcony...Chemistry of these two makes the show!

Nice to see the other plot about Halloween.. Come on people ok now scream..."get a life" -halloween is about the fun & candy- not about religion!

Personally, I find this decline into comedy overdone and often not funny or, worse, boring. As in the Halloween courtroom scenes. Just plain silly. I don't mind the political stuff (Hollywood will never control itself and resist the temptation to use its particular forum to advocate its views and biases). My problem with it is the lack of any meaningful attempt to show both sides. Denny vs. Alan, Denny's viewpoint is portrayed as the silliness of a right wing nut with dementia. In court, even the atty and general for the gov't are made to look at each other with a knowing look of "hes' right and we agree but can't say so". It's just too one-sided. In that regard, even The West Wing is (finally) doing a better job of at least presenting two opposite views and not ridiculing one to death.

Politics aside though, BL has lost its zing. Yeah, it still has some fun moments with Denny and Alan (the flamingo suit ending, as described). But it is fading for me and I think they could do so much more. In fact I know they could, because they used to.

That was the whole point of last nights show. Where do you make unpopular political statements. Why not TV shows? Why not courtrooms. Why does knocking over the apple cart upset so many people? This country was founded on the ability to express unpopular beliefs. Also the ability to not listen to them. But please let those that want to make them have that right!

Anyhow, the way they used the dimentia of Crane to represent the closed mindedness of the American Public was truely a piece of wonderful writing. Many many cudos should go to the writing staff and producers for airing such thought provoking material. Truely should be nominated for best episode of the year,,,Good chance it wont get a mention.

I used to love this show. It has been hijacked by the anti war socialists. I'm done with it.

What the hell are you talking about?

This show was spun off from The Practice which was also a "socialist" or "liberal" whatever you want to call it and presumably anti-war. David Kelley programs have always been a showcase for the liberal point of view. On this narrow subject matter at least it has not jumped the shark.

BTW I am for the war.

That was the whole point of last nights show. Where do you make unpopular political statements. Why not TV shows? Why not courtrooms. Why does knocking over the apple cart upset so many people? This country was founded on the ability to express unpopular beliefs. Also the ability to not listen to them. But please let those that want to make them have that right!

Anyhow, the way they used the dimentia of Crane to represent the closed mindedness of the American Public was truely a piece of wonderful writing. Many many cudos should go to the writing staff and producers for airing such thought provoking material. Truely should be nominated for best episode of the year,,,Good chance it wont get a mention.

If that was aimed at my post, try re-reading it a bit before making claims about things not said or facts not in evidence. Try dealing with what was said instead of simply pounding your chest with righteous indignation. It's 'kudos' btw.

Well, i was starting to lose interest in this show a little myself, and i have been a follower since the early "the practice" days , but i thought last nights episode was pretty good, and i'm not a socialist, Liberal, Democrat or Republican, but simply a U.S citizen.

If for nothing else, if this practice of Recruitment by the military is in fact true, of enlisting soldiers for one year, and then some "war clause" makes it legal for them to keep you for up to 25 years, should be put out there for potential recruits to at least get a heads up before jumping in.

Also Crane says " Were fighting the war over there so we dot have to fight it over here" If this is truly the case, then maybe our soldiers are merely "easy targets" to keep the terrorist occupied cause its easier for a terrorist to gain access to our troops over in Iraq, and that makes them easy targets, and for our Country to spend billions in foreign aid, when our own troops don't have adequate means of protecting themselves, just irritates the heck out of me.

I am personally against the war and for the troops, and wouldn't wish that war duty on anyone.

If that was aimed at my post, try re-reading it a bit before making claims about things not said or facts not in evidence. Try dealing with what was said instead of simply pounding your chest with righteous indignation. It's 'kudos' btw.


was not posted in response to you,( I can't type that fast ) but kudos to you for knowing how to spell kudos.

But thanks for getting angry, just makes the point, good art makes you think or react one way or the other. Hopefully they will let Oliver North come on and help Crane trump his side a little. Would make another good way to pit the two unlikely friends against each other.

Let's tread lightly on the political commentary.

I, for one, was glad to see a little less dementia from Denny Crane. But clearly the show is heading downhill fast. I look at the political commentary as a writing cop-out - screw the entertainment and clever writing, just get the message out. That's the aspect I don't appreciate.

It's just TV. God save us all if people make their political choices based on what they see on a TV show.

It's just TV. God save us all if people make their political choices based on what they see on a TV show.

Ah, but that's the rub. Far more people watch TV shows than watch TV news or read printed media or the Web. This gives one group who writes and produces TV entertainment and makes movies a political forum and influence that they simply do not deserve.

In fact an actor or producer or scriptwriter has no more insight or political acumen than a truck driver or plumber. They believe they do, but they are wrong.

Gary

Ah, but that's the rub. Far more people watch TV shows than watch TV news or read printed media or the Web. This gives one group who writes and produces TV entertainment and makes movies a political forum and influence that they simply do not deserve.


And who's fault is that? Watching TV is an entirely an elective exercise. If one makes the choice to watch then whatever is seen, heard or otherwise is fair game. If one does not like what they see and hear, then they should choose not to watch. As far as I'm concerned, producers, writer, actors and/or even networks can espouse whatever message they want, or feel they can get away with. That's the great thing about America, there is no such thing as a wrong opinion, and along with that we also have a thing called choice.

It's a great country we live in. :)

was not posted in response to you,( I can't type that fast ) but kudos to you for knowing how to spell kudos.

But thanks for getting angry, just makes the point, good art makes you think or react one way or the other. Hopefully they will let Oliver North come on and help Crane trump his side a little. Would make another good way to pit the two unlikely friends against each other.

Nothing I said should indicate anger of any kind, as there was none. In my post I simply stated why I found the show uninteresting and said little about the politics other than it is often presented in an unbalanced way. What I objected to in the quoted post above was the response that took me to task (or seemed to) for saying things I did not say and for ascribing views to me (e.g. you call me angry which is quite wrong) which I do not proclaim.

I couldn't care less about politics in shows (for either side) bcz I don't make political decisions based on such things. Whether the show shares my political thinking is mostly irrelevant - what is relevant is whether it is entertaining or reasonably so. I can name many past/present shows with political themes that I have severe differences with, but were/are among my favorites bcz they are so well done, well written and entertaining. The politics are not an issue, nor should they be. Entertainment value is beginning to sorely lag in BL - that is the issue, not its political bent.

Political messages deleted....................................Denny Crane.

:p :D

Political messages deleted....................................Denny Crane.

LOL ... of course the above action proved the whole point of the episode .................................. 10yr AF Veteran :D

Deleted but not gone. (email notification)

DSperber, great post. You know, that really long one about Boston Legal.. :p

I apologize if my missing post was deemed "too political." I was merely trying to present actual facts about service commitment lengths and stop-loss.

You always end up carving a bit of the good along with the rotten part of the apple. It's a gradual progression, so the starting point ends up being somewhat arbitrary.

jacmyoung, Boston Legal is about SEX not POLITICS.

Hopefully they will realize the error of their ways and stop dipping into the political arena. I like the comedic aspects more than anything else.

Gary

More politics deleted.

And if a show had ventured into nothing but political, yet the moderator refuses to let anything political discussed here, might as well close the whole thread. At least you tried to use "pink lips" to revive the thread, good effort.

What's interesting to see is how other programs interject political viewpoints into a show.

For example, CSI Vegas last night brought up the "when does life begin" issue-but it was handled in a way that was not overbearing, and with a fairness of letting different views give their form of evidence for their belief. It didn't become a focal point in the show. It was only a small portion of the whole show.

Now you might argue that a legal drama, taking place in a courtroom, is a legitimate place to have a long drawn out statement of political position...

But perhaps a more succinct method would be more effective and less reviled...

What's interesting to see is how other programs interject political viewpoints into a show.

For example, CSI Vegas last night brought up the "when does life begin" issue-but it was handled in a way that was not overbearing, and with a fairness of letting different views give their form of evidence for their belief. It didn't become a focal point in the show. It was only a small portion of the whole show.

Now you might argue that a legal drama, taking place in a courtroom, is a legitimate place to have a long drawn out statement of political position...

But perhaps a more succinct method would be more effective and less reviled...
Yes, I caught that and thought it was handled well. In fact, the whole episode had that theme to it, from the mother who was killed to the blow flys. There was another scripted drama in the past week or so that delved a bit into the subject although I can't remember what it was. Something other than The West Wing...might have been the L&O:SVU ep on sterilization, not the same, but an equally hot button topic but was handled well. In fact, L&O does that quite a bit, at the end of the hour it's really left open to the viewer how they feel about the subject, it's not pushed in your face. It's sort of a here's the issues, now it's up to you.

BL OTOH, can be very "in your face", and personally, there's entertainment value in that method as well although the understated method would seem to garnish the most viewers.

Hey, at least TV is getting a little more interesting than in year past. :)

Speaking of L&O and touchy subjects,

Criminal Intent (/www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6475766#post6475766)

Ironic that no matter how bad this show was tonight, Shatner never ceases to amaze. "Your guilty! Denny Crane." I did like the judges in this show, though. Goober was his usual neurotic self. And the guy who did "Wendy the cow" trial, very funny ("Sick!"), although the proesime was rediculous.

I can't figure out Kelley on this mone tonight. He is TOO far all over the map with topics as of late.

nc

I TiVoed BL last night on ABCHD on DirecTV and went to watch it this morning and it was in SD. Anyone else have this problem?

In some areas, like SF for example, it was run in SD to allow the ability to show an election results crawl. This is sweeps month for local station ad rates and with an election on top of that these stations undoubtedly wanted a large presence. I didn't really mind it as I was interested in the results and it's only one night every 2 years or so.

In some areas, like SF for example, it was run in SD to allow the ability to show an election results crawl. This is sweeps month for local station ad rates and with an election on top of that these stations undoubtedly wanted a large presence. I didn't really mind it as I was interested in the results and it's only one night every 2 years or so.That would probably explain it, being that I'm in Los Angeles.

WPVI 6 abc OTA in Philly was SD the entire show.

For me, a little political commentary goes a long way and David Kelley seems to be using his show as a forum to put forth his views. I watch BL to be entertained not to hear Hollywood writers views of Political issues put forth by actors. If I want political commentary I can tune to CNN, MSNBC or FOX and get all I want. I liked the show better when it had less of David Kelley's view of humor and political commentary and was about 1/2 in the courtroom and 1/2 on the Office interpersonal relations. Also the Denny Crane 'MadCow' has really played out far enough. There was an episode last year where they other partners were plotting to get rid of him. What happened to that. The battle would have made for a few great episodes...The show seems on a steady decline into nonsense and since that is not what hooked me originally I'm afraid I may not be able to follow it...

I guess I am the only one bothered by the fact that BL, the only 100% legal/courtroom drama on TV, doesn't do as well it should in the ratings...it consistently gets the crap beat out of it by, L&O: SVU, which should be called O:SVU, because there is very little courtroom drama in it.

IMHO, David E Kelley can do as he pleases with expressing his views, as long as he gives us exciting courtroom drama (and perhaps gets ABC to stop screwing over the show as it has ever since it hit the airwaves!)

That would probably explain it, being that I'm in Los Angeles.

Yeah, I watched it on the ABC west HD feed and had the same thing. It started out in HD but ended up with those dreaded side bars. I personally thought it was a great episode.

Ever continuing descent into silliness. Gets worse by the week. This is NOT the Alan Shore that began so compellingly in The Practice and initially in BL. The whole "fear of clowns" thing was so ridiculously over-played as to be near embarrassing to watch. Especially that pitiful ending where Shore barely musters the nerve to approach the clown, using ever worsening, over-wrought body gestures to indicate his obvious discomfort. I almost expected them to pan down to a small puddle on the floor as he left the courtroom.

As for Kelley's politics, it's his show and while I find it somewhat disrespectful the way he sticks his jabs in so often ("the #1 Clown in Chief" comment about Bush), he is free to express his opinions. Sadly, he does so lately in a most inartful way that is fast losing what audience is left. And that doesn't even begin to discuss the truly horrid case about the cow-lover and his divorce. The absurdity level in this show has dragged it totally into the screwball ending that Ally McBeal faced. What a shame.

Ever continuing descent into silliness. Gets worse by the week. This is NOT the Alan Shore that began so compellingly in The Practice and initially in BL. The whole "fear of clowns" thing was so ridiculously over-played as to be near embarrassing to watch. Especially that pitiful ending where Shore barely musters the nerve to approach the clown, using ever worsening, over-wrought body gestures to indicate his obvious discomfort. I almost expected them to pan down to a small puddle on the floor as he left the courtroom.

As for Kelley's politics, it's his show and while I find it somewhat disrespectful the way he sticks his jabs in so often ("the #1 Clown in Chief" comment about Bush), he is free to express his opinions. Sadly, he does so lately in a most inartful way that is fast losing what audience is left. And that doesn't even begin to discuss the truly horrid case about the cow-lover and his divorce. The absurdity level in this show has dragged it totally into the screwball ending that Ally McBeal faced. What a shame.

I completely disagree concerning Shore's reaction to clowns.

You are not going to believe this...but on Monday I delivered a lecture in my psychopathology class concerning phobic reactions...and a portion was devoted to the issue of clown phobia! Believe it or not Shore's reaction was similar to what I have seen in real life. Clown phobia is a real phenomena and the episode presented it is a pretty realistic light.

I don't disagree with that and certainly have no reason to disbelieve you. I just found its inclusion useless and not overly funny. There are any number of odd phobias one could use and they still would be out of place. I assume it was a way to humanize an otherwise brilliant but ethically-challenged character. It just didn't do that for me and is typical of Kelley's use of extremes that he tends to overdo so often as his shows disappear slowly under the circus tent.

Even though I definitely lean in that direction, I thought that "Clown in Chief" remark was an embarrassingly cheap shot. There are ways to do that and have it ring true within the storyline and ways not to, last night was one of those ways. While I like Kelley's work, if he wants to throw political jabs maybe he should just have a blog, or write a book. Bring back the well-crafted entertainment of earlier BL and/or The Practice, this later stuff is like watching a comic book.

he didnt say 'clown in cheif' he said 'the nations number one clown', but none the less, i thought it was pretty funny. The show has definatly gotten 'silly' for lack of a better word, the whole clown suit in the court room, the witch last week, the stupid lady that talks with a chello i think it was?? what the hell was that about i dont know. Anyway, denny crane still kills me so im sticking with it.

I just started watching this show recently because of the Commander in Cheif lead in, and after last night's "Ass Fat" episode, I've decided it's my new favorite network show. Those two women were a scream. This is Shatner's best stuff ever. His face is so expressive, and the Altzheimer's/sleazy lawyer thing was well done. It's definitely "over the top" and silly at times, but I'm personally burned out on the Bruckenheimer formula. And it's serious eye candy in HD.

Julie Bowen always helps too!

What happened last night with Alan and his assistant? My OTA lost signal and I couldn't regain it until Alan and Denny were having their cocktail.

He got a case of the terrors on the second night, she saved his life and then quit the night watch gig.

I'm getting dizzy!! What's the deal with the photography here? What was a so-so story got much worse when I got a headache from all the zooms with the picture. I th9ink this show is slipping (a little).

nc

I thought last night was an improvement over previous shows this season. Court room antics weren't WAY over the top and Denny's mad cow seemed to be in remission.

I loved when he was running the gauntlet:

Denny Crane
Denny Crane
My poop doesn't smell.
It comes out in pretty colors.
Pastels.
Denny Crane
Denny Crane

And "Alan" taking on the Credit card business...
Does it look like "Denise" will soon have fling?

I agree this last one was better - much less over the top silliness and even Denny's "mad" comments were stifled and he actually contributed. The setup btwn Shore and the credit card company attorney was wonderful. You just kept waiting for Shore to tear into this smiling clown and bring him to his kness with his usual sardonic wit and withering legal expertise. I also thought the serious courtroom issue of vindicating Brad the axeman was balanced well with Shore's final comment at the end to Denny about "had I (Shore) been the prosecutor, Brad would be in jail now and the pedophile would be free". Good stuff and I hope they keep it up and stay off of the silliness train to the extreme they had gotten into lately.

Ray

My favorite was the "I have an erection....that's a good sign....we're ready....lock and load".

And "Alan" taking on the Credit card business...
Does it look like "Denise" will soon have fling?

Even though Denise changed her tune last night, Alan has always seemed amazingly unafraid of a sexual harrasment action. That shot of her walking away after thanking him for helping her out was...priceless. Yowza!

My favorite was the "I have an erection....that's a good sign....we're ready....lock and load".

Right on, me too!

I still miss Monica Potter. Another lady lawyer, the blond exec lawyer on E-Ring who plays footsies with the hero, is something to behold. I only wish!

Jim

I still miss Monica Potter.



Agreed...although Julie Bowen has always been a hottie.

1/10/06- 1st commercial break was HD for AT&T
Got to love Cranes quotes...I want to be alone with my phone...at least 15 minutes..- Catch the sound effect when he opened his phone- Star trek-

1/10/06- 1st commercial break was HD for AT&T
Got to love Cranes quotes...I want to be alone with my phone...at least 15 minutes..- Catch the sound effect when he opened his phone- Star trek-

Made me spit up my Dr. Pepper when I heard the communicator sound!

I like that! Great humor.
Denny Crane!

You might be the 1st person that understands my name. Although- Dr Thunder (Walmart brand), Dr Bob ( Giant food store brand), etc.. gives the real thing a run for less $.

Terrific episode! It had it all...humor, sex, violence. My favorite BL episode yet. (I thought the story line w/ MJF could have been better, though.)

Spader was superb!

nc

I would have never thought I would be saying this - but Shatner ALONE makes me want to watch Boston Legal. He's hilarious.

... I heard the communicator sound!
That is why Shatner will always be Capt. James T. Kirk! (What does T. stand for?)

nc

That is why Shatner will always be Capt. James T. Kirk! (What does T. stand for?)

nc

Tiberious, I believe. (Have no idea where that little nugget in my brain originated.)

Tiberious, I believe. (Have no idea where that little nugget in my brain originated.)
Always thought it funny that he was named Terrance James in TJ Hooker.

I guess he likes that name "James".

I bet the censors struggled a bit with the interwoven small plot about Denny having sex in the coatroom and the host of the banquet - scenes/sounds of lustful Denny, then cut to the host "before his head swells", then back to Denny, etc. Pretty clever, if close to the edge. Good show.

Always thought it funny that he was named Terrance James in TJ Hooker.

I guess he likes that name "James".

Denny J. Crane?

The "credit card" episode and this week's were great. Picky critics be damned, I love this show.

Who played "Bev"? She looks familiar...

nc

Joanna Cassidy,

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/keenanj/Joanna_Cassidy-3.jpg

What is the name of the condition where theat man keeps his hands at his lap all the time? The "hands" guy? (I think this character is awesome, BTW.)

Favorite lines....

"Angel in the bedroom, Whore in the kitchen,"

"Not last night"

The Michael J. Fox appearance was excellent.

That was the funniest thing Denny Crane ever said! Also one of the best shows to date.

What is the name of the condition where theat man keeps his hands at his lap all the time? The "hands" guy? (I think this character is awesome, BTW.)
Asperger Syndrome

Denny and Alan dancing...I'm still laughing!

nc

neat idea:
they should run some outakes at the end of an episode. After that danceing scene--you have to imagine some good outakes there- why aren't they aready doing it?

Just started watching BL. Looks great in HD...
I noticed a lot of close-ups of James Spader, but no real close-ups of Candice Bergen. I wonder if this was done per request by Bergen, or was it the producer and/or directors choice?
Actually, no real close-ups of Michael J. Fox either....

On yeah.... loved the part where Fox ("I have a plane") introduced himself to Shatner ("my name's on the door") hilarious!

Can someone give a short recap of last nights episode? Much appreciated.

Julie Bowen looks simply breathtaking in HD. I dig her so much that I want to reach in and touch her!!! :D

What a great mix of cuteness, sex appeal and poise !!

Just started watching BL. Looks great in HD...
I noticed a lot of close-ups of James Spader, but no real close-ups of Candice Bergen. I wonder if this was done per request by Bergen, or was it the producer and/or directors choice?
Actually, no real close-ups of Michael J. Fox either....

I thought they might be doing that as well, especially seemed to notice it while she was on the stand, the skin on her face seemed as if it was blurred a little.

final scene as Alan walks out on balcony... ~Oh Denny, I haven't seen much of you this episode... LOL!

Satherine meets Denny in the hallway and says, "Denny, do you remember me or have I dropped from your wiffle-ball brain?"

(Apologies for the the quote may not being exact, but it was outrageous!)

LOL

nc

final scene as Alan walks out on balcony... ~Oh Denny, I haven't seen much of you this episode... LOL!

That was a good one.

My HD reception (KGO-HD) was marred by lengthy drop-outs. Since I was indicating normal signal levels of 65% or so and also since subchannel 2 was uninterrupted, it was some kind of problem with the HD network feed and possibly only my local affiliate. At one point the subchannel 2 programming was switched into the HD feed for troubleshooting.

I gave up and watched the SD version on DirecTiVO. That they still lack HD broadcast expertise after this many years is surprising to me.

Gary

Julie Bowen looks simply breathtaking in HD. I dig her so much that I want to reach in and touch her!!! :D

What a great mix of cuteness, sex appeal and poise !!


She reminds me of a young Stevie Nix !!! Breathtaking in some shots !!



GO STEELERS !!


Bill

That was a good one.

My HD reception (KGO-HD) was marred by lengthy drop-outs. Since I was indicating normal signal levels of 65% or so and also since subchannel 2 was uninterrupted, it was some kind of problem with the HD network feed and possibly only my local affiliate. At one point the subchannel 2 programming was switched into the HD feed for troubleshooting.

I gave up and watched the SD version on DirecTiVO. That they still lack HD broadcast expertise after this many years is surprising to me.

Gary
When you say "dropouts", do you mean complete loss of picture, or audio? I have been having a problem with KGO and KPIX where I get pixelation and audio dropouts, so bad that you lose dialog and it makes it tough to follow what's going on. I have been trying to determine whether it's my Comcast DVR or the signal is actually coming to Comcast that way. (KNTV of course, has it's own slew of issues). Last night I had to watch the LA stations on my HD-TiVo as the problem was persistent throughout NCIS, CiC and Boston Legal. I has assumed it was just at my end but your remarks give me pause.

I watched both Commander in Chief and Boston Legal in realtime on KGO (OTA 24-1), at least until I gave up. The problem did occur on CIC a few times but BL got so bad I gave up.

I do not think it was a transmitter problem, the signal strength was OK and the 24-2 subchannel was rock steady. They were obviously trying to find the problem and never did while I was watching. I believe the digital bitstream was being lost, well upstream from the transmitter, and the unmodulated transmitter signal was still registering on my onscreen display (MyHD tuner in a HTPC).

KPIX I have not watched in a few days, but it was fine last week.

Gary

If it's any help to you CA guys in troubleshooting, the West Coast feed I got from Comcast here in Portland via KATU was pretty solid.

My favorite scene (from last season, I think) was Denny and Alan sitting on the balcony with bourbon and cigars after Denny shot the guy holding a secretary hostage.

Denny says: "That's what you liberals will never understand...how good it feels to shoot a bad guy".

I laughed and cheered.

I watched both Commander in Chief and Boston Legal in realtime on KGO (OTA 24-1), at least until I gave up. The problem did occur on CIC a few times but BL got so bad I gave up.

I do not think it was a transmitter problem, the signal strength was OK and the 24-2 subchannel was rock steady. They were obviously trying to find the problem and never did while I was watching. I believe the digital bitstream was being lost, well upstream from the transmitter, and the unmodulated transmitter signal was still registering on my onscreen display (MyHD tuner in a HTPC).

KPIX I have not watched in a few days, but it was fine last week.

Gary
Okay, thanks, at least I know it's not the Comcast feed or the DVR itself.

If it's any help to you CA guys in troubleshooting, the West Coast feed I got from Comcast here in Portland via KATU was pretty solid.
Thanks, it looks like it's a local problem at the station itself. (last night anyway... :p )

Last night's show was a bit lackluster. That junior associate is a real idiot...Catherine should shoot HIM! Hey, that hot shot female DA, is she gonna be a regular? She's got the look.

nc

Here in LA when they came back from the last commercial, they lost HD. Reverted to SD (slightly stretched 4:3) for the final five minutes of the show.

I'm sure they must have gotten rid of the writing staff responsible for the first 6-7 shows of the season and hired a whole new creative crew, because the last 4-5 shows have been much better than the beginning of the season. No more singing, no musical dance numbers in court, no stupid judge, no silliness and ridiculous plot lines... just back to good story telling and good characters and some clever intelligent things for Alan and Denny to say again. And I have gotten to like Julie Bowen, though I originally didn't.

But truth be told, I still miss Tara... and even Sally.

Here in LA when they came back from the last commercial, they lost HD. Reverted to SD (slightly stretched 4:3) for the final five minutes of the show.

I'm sure they must have gotten rid of the writing staff responsible for the first 6-7 shows of the season and hired a whole new creative crew, because the last 4-5 shows have been much better than the beginning of the season. No more singing, no musical dance numbers in court, no stupid judge, no silliness and ridiculous plot lines... just back to good story telling and good characters and some clever intelligent things for Alan and Denny to say again. And I have gotten to like Julie Bowen, though I originally didn't.

But truth be told, I still miss Tara... and even Sally.

I agree. Tara was incredible. Discovered she had moved to the FX series Nip/Tuck. Don't know if she is still on it as I am always forgeting to watch it.

I do think the show would be much better without Kelly's constant political nonsense.

I agree. Tara was incredible. Discovered she had moved to the FX series Nip/Tuck. Don't know if she is still on it as I am always forgeting to watch it.

I do think the show would be much better without Kelly's constant political nonsense.
She was on it as of the last episode of the season, but it was basically a guest starring role all season long. The way the season ended left open to possibility that she could return. In fact, her character is the focus of a particularly wild twist at the season end.

Anyway, Georgia Murray. Watch for her to be successful. Fabulous fabulous voice. And nice to look at as well.You know, come to think of it I could be very comfortable with that nightclub sequence and Georgia Murray becoming a regular part of this show (for exactly the type of shmoozing that we saw last night between Paul and Shirley) just as Vonda Shepard became in "Ally McBeal" when her songs and voice clearly resonated with the viewers and they had weekly bar scenes with her singing onstage, sometimes with others and guest star cameos.

If that's the only way I can get to hear her voice again, it gets my vote. It was done very adult and tastefully (sultry, moody singing), not light and obviously just as a way to include Vonda in the show as was done with Ally. I'd keep it that way, but just ensure she got to sing something every week.

Mostly, I really ENJOYED the music last night! The two unexpected and comedic duets between Tom Selleck and the Missy character, coupled with Candice Bergen's startled reaction ("am I being punked?") were both terrific.
Not to mention the wonderful Aimee Mann song ("Wise Up", from the Magnolia soundtrack.) The song fit the scene perfectly...

Not to mention the wonderful Aimee Mann song ("Wise Up", from the Magnolia soundtrack.) The song fit the scene perfectly...I can't recall it specifically, but I do have that CD and will "refresh my recollection" later. Probably I will immediately recognize it, and where it showed up during the episode.

But musically speaking, the choice and use of music last night was "adult" and "appropriate", completely unlike what they tried to do earlier in the season when they went wacky... breaking into ridiculous song and dance in courtroom settings, etc. It was ludicrous.

Last night it was almost like they had scored a movie, with numerous and perfectly selected musical choices and performances to shade and emphasize the dramatic moment.

Excellent. My fingers are crossed that this level of excellence continues throughout the rest of this season's episodes.

I can't recall it specifically, but I do have that CD and will "refresh my recollection" later. Probably I will immediately recognize it, and where it showed up during the episode....

Last night it was almost like they had scored a movie, with numerous and perfectly selected musical choices and performances to shade and emphasize the dramatic moment.

Excellent. My fingers are crossed that this level of excellence continues throughout the rest of this season's episodes.
It was a relatively short scene, with no dialogue. It opened with a wide outdoor shot of Boston, then a shot of Shirley sitting at her desk, pondering, followed by a shot of Paul at his desk, pondering. The song fit perfectly.

If you remember Magnolia, the song was one of the high-points...showing where each character had wound up...(The entire movie was based on/inspired by the Aimee Mann songs used throughout...)

So, the way they used the song last night was very much like scoring a movie...

Just got off the phone with Kelley Productions again, talking to the music guy about my thought to possibly include a regular musical Shirley/Paul drink in the club scene in the week's epilog just as they have a weekly Alan/Denny cigar/scotch scene.

I was actually quite touched with the newly and surprisingly uncovered personal after-hours side of both Shirley and Paul (something which had never been explored at all before), mostly facilitated by the drink and the bar environment. Also, it would also allow them to showcase Georgia Murray's singing each week, with continued perfectly selected lounge-music and emotionally-compelling choices.

This could really work if done properly, just as the Vonda addition brought a wonderful energy to "Ally".

Anyway, he thought that was a fabulous idea and would definitely pass it along. He, too, was very taken with the success of last night's episode and the importance of the musical background to both the story and mood, and regard for the characters.

[P.S. - note that there was zero Brad last night, another reason why the show seemed so good. Even Denise's role last night was minor and almost non-existent, but still perfectly tuned in a new capacity as Shirley's personal friend... outside of the office setting. "You're coming with me, because I can bring a date". I'm glad the Michael J. Fox arc has expired.]

It was a relatively short scene, with no dialogue. It opened with a wide outdoor shot of Boston, then a shot of Shirley sitting at her desk, pondering, followed by a shot of Paul at his desk, pondering. The song fit perfectly.Ah yes, now I remember the scene. I do remember that there was music, but unfortunately was more taken with the visual at the time I guess. But I don't recall being "disturbed" by the music, so it must have fit the scene perfectly and just was there in the background of my mind as I was watching.


If you remember Magnolia, the song was one of the high-points...showing where each character had wound up...(The entire movie was based on/inspired by the Aimee Mann songs used throughout...)Actually, I never saw it in the movies but have it recorded on tape, still unwatched.

However a friend touted both the movie and the Aimee Mann soundtrack very highly, and sent me a copy of the CD (which I have listened to, and very much enjoyed).

I guess I need to finally watch the movie, and listen to the music again.


So, the way they used the song last night was very much like scoring a movie...Yes, last night they were really in some other zone. Maybe Emmy nomination? Jayne Brook who played Paul's daughter Rachel was genuinely extraordinary.

Not to mention the wonderful Aimee Mann song ("Wise Up", from the Magnolia soundtrack.) The song fit the scene perfectly...Just got the CD out and played this track.

YES... now that I hear it I DO remember it, and that scene. Beautiful and haunting, visually and musically. As you point out, it worked perfectly for what was onscreen, with both Shirley and Paul musing, probably thinking exactly what Aimee's lyrics were saying.

The music guy had a career day.

Just got the CD out and played this track.

YES... now that I hear it I DO remember it, and that scene. Beautiful and haunting, visually and musically. As you point out, it worked perfectly for what was onscreen, with both Shirley and Paul musing, probably thinking exactly what Aimee's lyrics were saying.
Sorry to go OT a bit, but you *really* need to watch Magnolia. Mann received an Oscar nomination for the song "Save Me", but really, the entire movie is (in my opinion) the best integration of movie and soundtrack I've seen. Paul Thomas Anderson is a good friend of Mann's, and was listening to some rough early tracks she had been working on in her home studio. The tracks would eventually become her "Bachelor No.2" album, with several of the tracks also on the Magnolia soundtrack. PTA really liked "Save Me", and started writing a screenplay around the ideas in the song, and also worked in some of the other songs. (I believe Aimee also wrote some of the songs specifically for the movie, once the general outline of the movie was done.) Each song in the movie really fits the characters, mood, and what's happening in the story. The scene with the song they used on BL last night is so beautiful and haunting...it's a masterful bit of movie making, and it would be nothing without the music.

Ok. I'm done with the OT....

The beginning last night was hilarious. I love how they keep throwing in subtle Star Trek references. When she suggested to Denny they live in Hawaii he replies "what am I supposed to do beam myself to Boston every morning." Warren Zevon's, Send Lawyers Guns and Money, was a great back round song when Denny got caught in the coat room. I also laughed when Corbin Bernsen was her Divorce Lawyer. On LA Law he played a prominent divorce lawyer. Love this show.

Particularly funny scene last night was when Brad comes to Denny's office and says how he was a marine and never lied, and goes on to confess about his offer to Bev to ditch Denny for money. And Denny replies..

"You're fired. Name on the door !!" and gives Brad the Marines salute..

:D :D :D :D

A nice episode altogether. Of course, it had the seemingly now-required weekly jab at a prominemt administration official. Tonight Scalia got it. Kelley just can't help himself with these name-calling (and, of course, unanswerable) attacks. It's still an improved show, but these weekly snipes are so obvious and specifically written in to be current, they almost seem edited in for spite.

Particularly funny scene last night was when Brad comes to Denny's office and says how he was a marine and never lied, and goes on to confess about his offer to Bev to ditch Denny for money. And Denny replies..

"You're fired. Name on the door !!" and gives Brad the Marines salute..

:D :D :D :D



and " Saw you in the shower ------- Good God man !!"

okay... did anyone else notice that they quietly fired/removed Ryan Michelle Bathe (the black female attorney) from the show? she was absent in the last like 5 episodes, and her name was altogether removed from last night's opening credits.

okay... did anyone else notice that they quietly fired/removed Ryan Michelle Bathe (the black female attorney) from the show? she was absent in the last like 5 episodes, and her name was altogether removed from last night's opening credits.

This article references it:

http://www.qctimes.net/articles/2006/02/21/features/arts_leisure/doc43faaabce3950024565038.txt

To quote specifically:

"In another turn from contemporary network sensibility, “Boston Legal” has introduced young, demo-bait characters only to abandon them — twentysomething actors Justin Mentell and Ryan Michelle Bathe, added last fall, have vanished from the show and a publicist confirmed neither remains a series regular — in favor of stories involving the show’s veteran performers, including Candice Bergen and Rene Auberjonois. Perhaps that’s hurt the show’s demographic ratings, but it’s certainly preserved the integrity of Kelley’s vision, which, “Ally McBeal” notwithstanding, has never been dependent on pretty young things."

It is strange though. One minute you see them, the next you don't.