Thursday, February 26, 2009

TV: Big Love 2/22

Big Love is like Six Feet Under in that sometimes I think it is the best show on television, and other times I am just caught-up in its silly kookiness.  This past episode (aired on 2/22 called "Family Road Trip"), was the best episode of the show in it's four season history and the best hour of television I've seen in a long time.  

After the previous week's episode, where the trial concluded and the fourth wife story-line completed, I was very curious about the future of season four.   We were only half-way through the season, but all the plot elements seemed relatively tied-up!   What to do but go on a road trip?!  

The episode could have stood completely on its own as a short film.  I think with just a few tid-bits of background information, anyone could have tuned in and been throughly captivated.  The Sopranos also had the ability to present incredibly cinematic episodes.   Part of why I loved this episode so much was due to how beautiful it was.  The scene where Bill is praying after burying the family time-capsule?  I got goose-bumps all three times I've seen it. 

Another reason I loved this episode was because it simply focused on the family.  I get tired of compound drama and I certainly get bored with Bill's business and financial obstacles (there was a bit of casino talk in this episode, but just a smidgen).   My favorite Big Love episodes concern what is happening in their immediate and complicated family.  With so many wonderful characters living all under one roof (sort of), we really don't need so much periphery business to make for an incredible show.  



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