Tabloid Nation,I'm Mad as Hell and I'm not Gonna take it Anymore
interested in cultural experiences, adventurous, avid reader
| Pros |
|
APR
8
2008
Boston Legal —
My parents got me into Boston Legal, and my adult son also likes it. The show has outrageously over the top wierdness and social commentary, usually it's very good. Boston Legal aired a new episode last night, Tabloid Nation. The sub-plot in this episode shows Shirley (Candace Bergen) defending a Vietnam War Vetran for repeatedly, illegally killing seals for food. He had Post Traumatic Stress and bi-polar disorder. Shirley wants to use lack of mental competence in his defense. In one poignant moment the veteran objects to the defense, explaining that he is a war hero and asking not to made into a victim. Then we are distracted by something bizarre and funny (or not). One minute William Shatner is being more outrageous than in his notorious commercials, and the next you're really feeling for the plight of someone who's just trying to make it through the next day the best way he can.The title plot for this episode had to do with Tabloid TV and a murder that resulted from the emotions stirred in ridiculing the guests. Alan Shore (James Spader) is the attorney suing for damages. In his editorializing closing arguments he surveys all the points made in a recent multi-part series on NPR discussing what has happened now that news is looked on as a profit center rather than a sacred trust. He goes on to mentions all of the lowest common denominator features that hook people on low budget- high profit programing. It was so condemning that I was almost surprised to see it on network television. He refers to one of my favorite old movies written by Paddy Chaevsky, Network. This movie came out while I was in high-school. The first time I saw it I laughed a lot, the second time, a week later, I found it incredibly depressing. It had a very real edge that bites. So does Boston Legal. The antics have the potential to become tiresome, but somehow they have not tired me. There is always some value too. The balance is good and when there are new episodes to be seen, I try to remember to watch.
Last edited on Jul 21, 2008
Boston Legal is recommended by Rainmaker
Comments about Rainmaker’s Review
More reviews by Rainmaker
PureVia All Natural Zero Calorie Sweetener Review - "Fewer known risks, I...
Motegi Twin Ring Review - "Honda Land Extraordinaire, the Indy of Japan "Spray and Wash Stain Stick Review - "Read the Label, Even if you've used...
NAPA Auto Parts Store - all Review - "Fairly pleased, but don't trust the...
