By Frederic Germay
I always admire the wide variety of wildly controversial cases that the writers at "Boston Legal" cook up, and this night was no exception. I actually find that I learn more things from "Boston Legal" than I learn from "CSI," or "House." At any rate, this show is definitely more entertaining than either of those programs, and tonight, "Boston Legal" managed to prove why it was nominated for Best Drama (even with half the former cast gone!)
The case concerning Denny firing a woman because she was fat was one of this episode's gleaming moments. From Alan's remarks towards the opposing counsel at the beginning of the episode to Alan's shockingly convincing closing argument -- this case sparked extremely high on the controversial meter. Although I do agree with some of what Alan (not Denny) said during his closing, I can't possibly see a judge allowing an employer to walk away without punishment after firing someone because they were fat.
Despite the allegedly ethical explanation for it all, it really is discrimination to take disciplinary action against someone because of his or her appearance, so this particular case was hard for me to swallow, but it certainly provided for some interesting television.
As for the case with the racially motivated cop, I have mixed feelings about that. On one hand, I'm strongly against anyone trying to 'read someone's mind,' despite whatever scientific terminology they slap on it to make it sound non-invasive. On the other hand, I shudder to think how many law enforcement individuals with racial bias have murdered innocent individuals on account of racially motivated, instinctual actions.
The YouTube case wasn't all that entertaining for me. Clarence's antics have started to get old, but apparently they are still hanging around just to deliver some relevance to Clarence's presence on the show. However, this did allow Carl Sack the opportunity to show off his skills. I have to admit, though, that the scene with Sack scolding Clarence was absolutely hilarious. Sack and Katie are the only two cast additions that I truly enjoy this season, whereas I strongly despise Lorraine.
The acting in this episode was at the usual "Boston Legal" high, and I strongly emphasize how when you compare the acting in this show to the acting in many other highly-rated shows, "Boston Legal" always shows up the competition. Props to William Shatner and James Spader, but honorable mentions go to Christian Clemenson's Jerry Espenson for stealing every single scene he was in. I give this episode a 9/10
