The Good Wife: "The Seven Day Rule" aka The Devil Wears Plaid

Season 4, Episode 13 | Original Air Date: Sunday, January 27, 2013

______________________________________________________________

This episode changes everything.

I’ve been sitting here, trying to come up with a better opening line, but I can’t, no matter how hard I try.  Why?  Because tonight, four amazing things happened:

1) I discovered the devil wears plaid 

2) For the first time in four years was truly disappointed in Will 

3) I became part of the game Alicia faces every day, and 

4) I finally realized that I don’t blame her for any of it

This week I’m going to explore why “The Seven Day Rule” is the episode that, in my opinion, has changed the course of The Good Wife forever. 

The Call

If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that I wouldn't want Alicia Florrick’s life.  Do I admire her legal acumen and compassionate nature?  Yes.  Do I adore her wardrobe and take notes when it comes to her home décor?  Who doesn't  (Right?!)  These things, and countless others (her moxie, her wit, her laugh – to name three) are all qualities and characteristics to love. 

But, at the end of the day, I think there’s one thing on which we can all agree: Alicia’s life is a hot mess. 

Her personal life is a disaster and her children have (on more than 12 occasions) made me want to go the way of Silvia Plath. Work is complicated, her friendships are intermittent and the only thing she can count on is the hope that one day things will get better.

And then, they did.  They got better for 18 seconds. 

Here’s how it went:

Alicia, walking down the hall hears a beckoning call from Diane and Will.

“Why don’t you go ahead and sit down” says Diane.

Alicia slowly takes a seat, her eyes pacing between the two named partners.  Sitting with baited breath, Alicia listens to Diane’s speech which includes a flashback to Jonas Stern (whose family, I fear, is still eating potato salad from his wake), a nod to hard work and then the offer every associate dreams of: the invitation to join the firm as an Equity Partner. 

Alicia’s thrilled, I’m thrilled and the world is a happy place.  Before Alicia trips on her chair (an action which elicits an adorable smile from Will and a squeal of appreciation from me), Diane passes along some famed words of wisdom: Go home, take the phone of the hook and think about the offer.  Then go to the track, smoke a cigar or go windsurfing as Will did (apparently unsuccessfully, which, strangely, adds to his charm and mystique).

Alicia leaves Diane’s office and heads for the elevator.  As the doors close, we can almost hear her scream with joy. Next stop?  Campaign headquarters.  With no Peter to be found and the topic of religion killing her buzz, Alicia has no choice but to go shopping over lunch.  Then it’s back to the office to meet with the David Lee because, the hoodie-wearing Chum Hum exec, Neil Gross, is back and debating a pre-nup.  Everything’s coming up roses until David Lee drops his first bomb of the episode:  Buying into the equity partnership is going to cost (and not in a Debbie Allen “this is where you start paying… in sweat” kind of way).  Equity Partnership = $600,000.    

Ba-da-bum.

Partnership Popsicles

Panic stricken, Alicia rushes to return her shopping purchases and gets on the phone with her banker in the hopes of securing a loan.  All we hear is “blah, blah, blah, co-signer, blah, blah, blah, Mr. Florrick.”  Click.  Peter has suddenly become Alicia’s gateway to the legal fast-track. 

Before long, Alicia’s at the campaign bus spreading the good news (and hopefully nothing else).   Yes, I just went there because, quite frankly, I’m tired of what the bus and all bathrooms have come to represent recently.  But I digress.  While aboard the bus, Alicia mentions Peter co-signing on her loan.  His response?  “How about I just give you the money?  It’s a business decision.” 

I’m sorry, what?  Now I have 58 questions, the most important being: How does Peter have $600,000?  He’s the one who had to borrow money from Cosco pre-season one to buy Alicia a diamond tennis bracelet and then he went to prison… which isn't particularly lucrative unless you’re somehow smuggling contraband.  Since he was friends-off with Kalinda at that time, that theory’s out.  Next, we know he spent all his money on his season two campaign (flashback to the jokes about making photocopies at Kinkos).    He’s the State’s Attorney, not Midas.  Color me confused.  Also, who does he think he’s fooling when he throws out phrases like ‘it’s business.’  It’s not business.  He wants another tie to Alicia.  Case closed.

Now it’s not just Alicia’s life that’s a hot mess – it’s mine, too.  Oy vey.  I’m exhausted. 

Good thing The Good Wife writers know how to throw a glass of cold water in the viewers’ face.  The next big surprise?  Cary was also asked to be an Equity Partner.  It seems they've been handing out these invites like popsicles on a playground. 

Alicia Florrick: Mother, Lawyer, Pawn.

It’s at this point I know something is up.  Even though Alicia being invited into the partnership as a fourth year was a surprising choice, I understand it from a strategic perspective.  She’s the State’s Attorney’s wife, she has strong billable hours, she politically connected – she’s the ace up their sleeve.  While Cary is a great lawyer, his firm offering is different.  The decision to ask Alicia makes sense.  To ask Cary?  I’m starting to question motives.  To find out they've extended the offer to three more associates?  We’re suddenly swimming in a pit of murky water that’s 50 shades of grey.

The worst part is that Alicia seems to have become a pawn in the game of debt repayment, and what’s even more heartbreaking, is that Will is partially to blame.  To add salt to the wound:  Louis Canning is the one who pointed it out to Alicia.  Even though Canning (who could certainly star in his own feature film: The Devil Wears Plaid) exposed the truth, he’s sadly not the one who orchestrated the grand ‘Equity Partner pyramid scheme plan.’  Alicia  knows she’s being played, not only by her mentor, but by one of her best friends.

I haven’t felt this terrible about Team Gardner since “Parenting Made Easy.”  Will is supposed to be Alicia’s friend, and, to be honest, we all know he’s more.  Or, at least he used to be.  Lockhart Gardner has become so desperate to dig their way out of debt, they’ll do anything to make that happen.  Will knows he’s hurt Alicia and it’s the first time we've seen it.  Him standing up to offer her a chair was a feeble attempt to mend a fence that’s beginning to crumble in the eye of the storm. 

While Alicia has a strong ability to weather inclement tides, there’s only so far a person can be pushed.  I know down the road she’ll forgive Will for using her to save the firm (if she can forgive Peter and Kalinda, she can forgive Will (and so can I) – of that I have no fear), but now it’s about something more.  It’s about whether or not she wants to be a part of Lockhart Gardner at all.  Canning has dropped a ‘get out of jail free’ card (aka yet another business card) on Alicia’s desk, and while he’s conniving in the courtroom, he has a side that’s alluringly caring.  It’s not an entirely terrible option to consider, if you ask me.

“I don’t know if I’ll miss it, but I’ll…no, I won’t miss it”

The firm has been granted another five months to pay back the remainder of their debt – $29 million to be exact.  If everyone agrees to their Equity Partner offers, it will be down to $26 million. With the train chugging merrily along, it’s time we say goodbye to the most level-headed occupier of Lockhart Gardner space we've ever known: Clarke Hayden.  While he won’t miss the drama of the firm, I know well miss him.  The good news is he’s off to write the bar next week, so it’s quite possible we could see him again in court.

Before boarding the elevator, Clarke stops in at the Lockhart Gardner celebration, where champagne flows and glasses clink happily.  Although Diane and Clarke have butted heads since their initial meeting in September, in “The Seven Day Rule” they now part as friends.  Why?  Because, as Clarke so humbly notes: “You paid me the compliment of assuming I’m not for sale.” It’s just a shame Diane thought Alicia was...

Taking the Carrots You’re Given

And then there is Alicia… tucked in her office while the rest of the firm celebrates.  Noting her absence, Diane enters with an attitude that’s entirely unbecoming of the sophistication and polish for which she’s known.  But there’s reason.  In finding out she’s but a piece in the firm’s game of chess, Alicia is understandably peeved… and Diane calls her on it.  “You’re pouting. It’s unbecoming” notes Diane, “No one is here to appreciate your moping.”  Diane’s advice?  Suck it up and get out to the party and thank the Equity Partners for their invitation.  The road is bumpy – Diane’s offer came because Stern was being accused of sexual harassment – but none of it matters as long as you take the carrots you’re given and never look back.

So that’s what she does.  Sort of.  Alicia puts on a smile and starts making the rounds to thank everyone (with the exception of Julius, because apparently he has gone the way of Nick… whatever way that is), but while actions are one thing, meaning is another.  You see, Diane was wrong about one key thing.  One person was there to appreciate Alicia’s moping.  Louis Canning.  As Alicia makes the rounds, Diane suddenly realizes Alicia's answer might not be yes.

Other Notables

1) Maddie Hayward is back and the question this time is around religion.  She’s an Atheist and apparently that’s a problem for voters.  Too bad Alicia told the press she is, too (wink, wink, Eli). 

Side note: Alicia's dress in this scene? Amazing.

2) Jordan Karahalios (whose name, I recently found out, means ‘bird of prey’ in Greek) continues to lurk in the wings and I’m left scratching my head as to why I don’t care.  Is it just me, or is Jordan not adding much (if anything) to the campaign storyline?  While characters on The Good Wife seem to be well-defined and purpose-driven, Jordan (who dresses like Andrew Wiley but is trying to be like Eli Gold) is simply window dressing on campaign headquarters.  Perhaps when Eli’s judgment day surfaces Jordan’s role will become clear as mud.  Or, it will become irrelevant because we’ll all be cheering the praises of Elsbeth and forget Jordan is trying to get Peter elected.  Unless he’s not… and that’s why he’s a bird of prey?  Could he be a plant from anther campaign?  Oh. Wow. Is that what I've been missing?

The Big Questions: What Do You Think?

• Should Alicia accept the offer to join the firm as an Equity Partner?
• Should Alicia leave Lockhart Gardner to join Louis Canning?
• How is Peter affording the $600,000 loan?
• Would you like to see Clarke working for Canning?
• Do you trust Jordan?

Related to this Post:

• Food Inspired by The Good Wife: Frozen Banana Pops
• The Latest Briefs - News from The Good Wife
• Catching Up: Je Ne Sais What? Let's Make Some Lemonade 

The Good Wife: "Je Ne Sais What?" - Let's Make Some Lemonade

"Je Ne Sais What?"

Season 4, Episode 12 | Original Air Date: January 13, 2013

______________________________________________________________

This week I find myself writing from San Diego, and while I should be focusing on the last hours of my vacation, I can’t help but think of the phrase, “You've been Tascionied.”  Ahhh.  I feel so much better now - I've been waiting to say that all season.  Oh look, a palm tree.

For this enchanting episode, “Je Ne Sais What?” I could focus exclusively on how much I adore Elsbeth Tascioni, but I won’t, mostly because it’s beginning to look a lot like another story arc for our beloved, bubbly and brilliant red-haired litigator.  This means I, and fans everywhere, will have plenty of time to shower this character with the love and admiration she deserves.  Which, by the way, is a lot.  But more about that later. 

Let's dive right in and take a look at the top six things that made this week’s episode so memorable (hint: my definition of memorable doesn't always mean ‘things that made me happy).  Read on, weigh in and join in the conversation below!

Making Lemonade with Elsbeth Tascioni

There are few characters on The Good Wife who are so accomplished at making the best out of a bad situation.  Elsbeth Tascioni, I would suggest, is one of the most experienced and delightful lemonade makers I have ever seen.  Peter breaking his parole or Zach injured in a rogue skateboarding accident?  Alicia’s caught up in a mess with the Treasury?  Will’s accused of judicial bribery?  Pa chow!  Not when Elsbeth is around.  She can make lemonade out of petunias and it’s incredible to watch. 

In “Je Ne Sais What?” the Tascioni lemonade stand rolled into town and straight into jail.  The upside is that Elsbeth never looked worried, on the downside her cell-mate looked experienced in living hard.  Thankfully, when Elsbeth found herself in a squeeze, she went to the one lawyer she mightily respects (and, let’s face it, whose family has kept her in ‘new purse money’ for the past three years): Alicia.  Needing backup, Will and Diane quickly got on board to save Elsbeth from a weekend in jail.  Suddenly, all was right in the world.  I’m not sure if it’s strange or not, but I’m grateful for the loyalty Alicia, Will and Diane have towards Elsbeth, not only because I’m scared for Tascioni’s ability to make a shiv on a dime, but because she’s earned it.  Also, I’m not sure her concentration could handle all the whittling prison items need.  Not like I’m an expert, but I've watched Kalinda enough to know the kind of dedication escaping takes. I, myself, will take an ice cold glass of lemonade. 

An Athlete and a Jail Cell

“Je Ne Sais What?” was a prime example of strong story advancement with a robust case of the week.  So rarely do the cases we’re privy to involve characters with whom we have a relationship.  Of course, there are exceptions (my two favorite examples being 1) Lemond Bishop and his handsome, swindling ways and 2) Colin Sweeney, who’s brand of crazy is impossible to replicate), so when we found out Elsbeth had been arrested and called Alicia for assistance, the look on my face said, “amazing” while my voice simply squeed. 

This week's case dealt with a runner who was banned from an upcoming race for using boosters.  An endorsement deal gone awry surfaced and Elsbeth, from the comfort of her psych exam (which, sadly but not surprisingly, quickly went off the rails), realized the whole booster mix up had to do with pregnancy termination drugs.  My husband, like Elsbeth, called it.  While I've simplified the case to the very basics, it was an especially thoughtful case.  Throw in the fact much of the show took place on a running track and that the French judges secretly call Tascioni “Rambo” and it is, in my books, one of the most entertaining episodes of season four. I’m seriously in love with this show.

The Race Card

FINALLY!  I've been waiting for the race card to be played in the Florrick campaign since last season.  In my opinion, if anything is going to be Peter’s downfall in the race for Governor, it’s going to be the fact he does show racial bias.  While I think it’s unintentional, I also feel as though his decisions can be seriously questioned by his opponents.  Geneva Pine’s examples are right on: Cary being promoted over both she and Maton, Wendy Scott-Carr being fired, Dana Lodge being demoted.  Sure, there was cause for each of these decisions, but at the end of the day, Peter has exposed himself (hopefully just figuratively, but one never knows). 

With Eli and Jordan (the new political dynamo and, likely, Eli’s arch nemesis) at the helm, I think Peter has as good a shot as any to escape anther ‘question of character’ debate.  That said, he’s up against squeaky clean Krestiva, who while absent from our screens, we know is working hard in the background to be as perfect as possible.  Throw in the maven feminist, Maddie Hayward, who seems to appeal to all races, ages and genders, and Peter is in a tighter race than ever before.  Eli better get a discount at Kinkos – I think the campaign’s going to need more posters.

For Peter, flaws are his selling feature.  He’s made mistakes and continues to do so, but that’s what makes him popular.  While my full support is behind Team Gardner when it comes to love, I’d likely vote for Florrick when it comes to the race for Governor.  Of course, a win means he’d be spending more time in Washington, which wouldn't be bad for my other interests either (insert a friendly nod to those who have highlighted this in the past!).

Diane Speaking French

Seriously.  This woman is brilliant.  As Elsbeth wasn't afraid to point out, she’s elegant, too.  And it’s true.  When I grow up, I want to BE Diane Lockhart. The icing on the ‘Diane speaks French’ cake was when she said, ‘Merci, Mademoiselle’ to Kalinda, who, while wearing one of her shortest skirts to date, caught the eyes of all the “judges.”  Pure brilliance.  Also, for the record, I’m pretty sure Diane could have landed a date with the Fenchman in the center of that panel.  Who’s with me?

Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien

What is Alicia Florrick thinking?  Just when I thought her moving to Highland Park was going to be the worst decision she could make, she started randomly sleeping with Peter again.  I’m glad he’s confused too, because it makes me feel like I’m not the only one.  While I loved listening to Edith Piaf’s “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien,” I have to say that I do, in fact, have regrets, to go alongside my strong reservations, about all of this on-bus canoodling.  Eli’s look of horror and dismay was second only to my own.  I know season four was going to be lacking in Team Gardner goodness, but this, THIS, this is getting out of control.

It’s a Small World… After All

Eli needs a lawyer and Elsbeth is out of jail.  This could be a match made in heaven.  Maybe.  I’m not sure how these two are going to work, but I’m willing to jump on this bandwagon, big time.  Elsbeth has proven herself to be one of the best lawyers in Cook County (having represented Peter, Alicia and Will), so Eli retaining her council is a sound decision, and he knows it.  What I’m fairly certain of is that he’s unaware of is how truly unconventional she is when it comes to the defense of her clients.  As Judge Poloti said though, “When the law’s an ass, someone has to kick it.”  Tascioni’s just the woman to do that kicking.  Eli and Elsbeth = 2013's dynamic duo.

Related to this post:

Food Inspired by The Good Wife: Coming Soon

The Good Wife: "Boom De Ya Da" - The Doomsday Trifecta

"Boom De Ya Da"

Season 4, Episode 11 | Original Air Date: January 6, 2013

______________________________________________________________

This week, I'm writing from a hotel room in Los Angeles.  I'm here on vacation, and while I've embraced a life without deadlines for the next 10 days, the reappearance of Louis Canning and Wendy Scott-Carr has forced me throw my Zen out the window.  These two are shaking up just about everything on The Good Wife.  Toss in Clarke Hayden and it has suddenly turned into the doomsday trifecta.

For "Boom De Ya Da," I'm looking at the four most gasp-worthy moments, all of which are still sending me through the roof.  Once I get these off my chest, it's back to vacation, while humming Houaida Goulli's rendition of "I Love the Mountains."

Disease: Found in Pools and Law Offices Nation-wide

Personally, I love when The Good Wife takes things out of the courtroom.  Other offices?  Love them. A character's home? Can't get enough.  This week, we found ourselves at a not-so-little hotel on the prairie.  Deep in the Minnesota woods, Alicia and Louis Canning went head-to-head over some foreclosed property containing vacant swimming pools serving as breeding grounds for West Nile-infected mosquitos.  As someone border-line terrified of contracting this insect-borne disease, I was both intrigued and horrified about this case.  What I learned: Never jump a fence into a yard with a pool.  Message received.

But I digress.

Alicia (clad in what can only be described as a stunning cherry red blazer) and Louis (buttoned up in a brown three-piece number), spent the majority of the episode waiting around for a client who was missing in action 90% of the time.  Fortunately, with Alicia and Louis, there's never a dull moment.  As creatures of habit, these two fall into old rhythms better than best friends at a reunion: Louis lies, Alicia buys in and then figures out Louis foiled her (again), at which point she turns things around and serves him a juicy slice of humble pie.  It's deliciously predictable in the lease predictable way possible... if that makes sense.  I mean, there's nothing Louis says that I believe, no matter how convincing.  I only make one exception, and that's when he discusses his ridiculously lovely wife, Simone.  He seems completely genuine about her.  Everything else is a bust.  The only part I never see coming when it comes to Louis is why exactly he lied and how he always seems to get away with it.

Stick with me here.  Remember in "Parenting Made Easy" when he stole paperwork from Alicia's briefcase when she was dealing with Grace's disappearance?  First, he pretended to care and then he blatantly stole files.  Win, lose or draw, Louis Canning never fails to surprise me... or creep me out.

Of course, that's why he's amazing.  And, also, apparently how he's managed to acquire ALL of Lockhart Gardner's debt.  Say what?!  I did not see this coming at all.  I feel as though I'm more prepared for the zombie apocalypse than I am for Canning to be the firm's new creditor.  Forget the "De Ya Da" - let's just go with "Boom."

Side note: Did anyone else wonder why the woodland hotel was surrounded by trees donning their brilliant autumn colors?  Don't get me wrong, I love to watch leaves change, but I'm pretty sure it's winter in Minnesota.  If there's one thing I learned from watching the Ingalls homestead for nine years, it's that snow falls in that state in January.

Clothes, Incidentals and Sleepovers

Knock, knock.

Kalinda stands at the door with Alicia's clothes in one hand, a wine bag in the other.

  Alicia: "I miss drinking red wine at three in the afternoon."
  Kalinda: "I miss this."
  Me:"Eeeeeeeeee!" <insert clapping>
  Kalinda: "I'm sorry."
  Alicia: "I know."
  Me: *Sigh* "We're all sorry..."

Next morning, Kalinda is on the phone to Will while Alicia puts on her coat

  Me: "They just had a sleepover! They just had a SLEEPOVER!"

Best. Scene. Ever.

Okay, maybe not ever-ever, but definitely one of the best of season four.  Thank you, Good Wife Writers, for giving me one relationship for Alicia I can get behind.

The Raid

She's back.  Wendy Scott-Carr.  We knew she would be - she's too good/evil not to lurk in the wings.  How she got another contract to work in Cook County is beyond me, but she's smart, resourceful and most of all, determined to end corruption in the government.  Like Canning, I'm skeptical of her intentions.  Her battles often go from a business objective to a personal vendetta overnight.  Also, while she postures about unbiased practices, I'm pretty sure she's still after Peter (and maybe Will for that matter).  As it turns out this week, she's also after Eli Gold.  It was only a matter of time.

While Diane tried to scare WSC, it backfired like a car making a getaway in a dirty alley.  Wendy saw the threat and raised her by filing a warrant to seize all of Eli's files from the firm.  Now Eli's looking for a new lawyer and Lockhart Gardner is tangled in what's sure to be another scandal, as though Clarke Hayden needed another reason to hate the whole lot of them...

Cary Agos: Tutor

Okay, hate might be a strong word.  He doesn't hate Cary.  Or, he didn't, until Cary told Will, Diane and the faux-judge with the gavel, he was tutoring Clarke for 10 hours a week for the Bar exam.  Once again, color me surprised.  Clarke looked immeasurably hurt when he found out Cary felt he had to tutor Clarke for the security of his job, not out of the genuine friendship he thought they had forged.

I felt terrible for both Clarke and Cary.  First off, Cary is always placed in these situations where he has to testify for someone at Lockhart Gardner.  It's a good thing he's honest and loyal.  For Clarke "you use illogical passion for winning at all costs" Hayden, he was under the impression he and Cary were building a serious friendship.  The truth is, I kind of thought that, too.  While what happened was unfortunate, I worry Clarke won't be able to forgive Cary.

Now the firm has five short weeks to figure out their finances and rid themselves of pesky Clarke forever.  It's just too bad the new creditor is Canning... and that their landlord is Maddie Hayward.  Who thinks these two are going to give Lockhart Gardner a break?  It looks to me this business just got personal.

New Year, New Hopes, New Reasons to Love The Good Wife

The Good Wife: Things We'd Love to See in 2013

Season 4 | Original Post Date: January 1, 2013

______________________________________________________________

With 2013 upon us, it's time to look forward to the next 365 days and what might be in store for the year ahead.  Last year I wished for a Florrick family Thanksgiving (and it came true!). With that good fortune fresh in my mind, this year, I'm throwing caution to the wind and laying everything on the line, because if there's one thing I've learned over the past year on The Good Wife, it is to expect the unexpected.  Here's to 2013: A new year, with new hopes and new reasons to love The Good Wife. 

Six Things We'd Love to See in 2013

More Cary Agos – It’s what everyone’s talking about: Needing more Cary Agos.   This season has been a bit of a roller coaster for this fourth year associate – from juggling the leather-clad nightmare, otherwise known as Nick, to seeing the true colors behind his father, Cary has been put through the ringer, but in a most ‘supporting actor’ kind of way.  Of course, Cary is the apple of Clarke Hayden’s eye, but that’s only good for getting an office upgrade, not for getting a date, or a storyline.  Here’s to a new year and a new beginning for Cary Agos.  

Season Five – This almost goes without saying, but a fifth season of The Good Wife is mandatory for making 2013 pure magic. Typically, CBS announces show renewals in March, and with great ratings abounding, all signs point to fans having reason to break out the celebratory Scotch.  I’m not just saying this because I’d be crushed without the promise of another season, but, let’s face it, I would be.  Season five?  We've got this.

Cary and Alicia Save the Firm – Lockhart Gardner is in trouble.  Like global warming, it’s not news anymore, but rather, something everyone has come to live with while figuring out a solution.  Years of poor management have led the firm down the rabbit hole of debt, and as it turns out, a $60 million deficit just doesn't disappear.  While we don’t know how things are going to unravel, we do know Wendy Scott-Carr is going to be lurking in wings while Clarke Hayden threatens to pull the plug on our beloved named partners: Will and Diane.  2013 is going to be turbulent which is not made better by Julius gallivanting around Chicago, David being a loose cannon and Howard Lyman searching for early bird breakfast specials.  However, with  Alicia and Cary working so closely (from enemies to frenemies to friends), it’s not much of a long shot to wonder if Florrick and Agos have the potential to save Lockhart Gardner from total ruin.  Here’s hoping!

A Team Gardner Reunion – Okay, I don’t think it will happen in season four, but  half of 2013 will (yes WILL) boast season five, so I’m pulling out all the stops with this wish list.  The thought of a Team Gardner reunion is impossible to resist.  Also, it has been over a year since these two shared anything more than a ‘thank you’ ear whisper.   We've had a few great moments of friendship – and for those I’m grateful – but as a diehard fan of Will and Alicia, I can’t help but long for a glimmer of hope for these soul mates.  I’m tired of bad timing… let’s get these two together already!

The Return of Julius Cane – As perhaps the most level-headed Equity Partner at Lockhart Gardner, Julius Cane (Michael Boatman) is quickly going the way of Justice, Diane’s beloved four-legged friend: Extinct.  We haven’t heard a word from Julius yet in season four and with the firm in dire financial straits, it doesn't make any sense.  Sure, I've imagined a variety of situations where his disappearance would be acceptable (my favourite options being a) Julius sneaking out under the cover of darkness to join Louis Canning or b) Julius taking a sabbatical in the Cayman Islands and writing a personal manifesto focused exclusively on undermining David Lee), but at the end of the day, we've been left to believe he’s working quietly in the background.  With Michael Boatman now staring on Anger Management, the most we can hope for are some strategic guest spots in 2013.

Diane Lockhart Playing the Field – Whether she’s sharing wine with Jack the Process Server or agreeing to disagree with Kurt the wilderness-loving Ballistics Expert, there’s no denying Diane is a hot commodity when it comes to after-hours get togethers.   Two words for 2013: More dates.  

Of course, my list of hopes could go on and on (Peter's election going sideways, the return of Elsbeth Tascioni, Justin from legal aid making three a crowd in Alicia's office...), but I'll save sharing more of my wishes for the upcoming year.  Now I turn it over to you. What are you most looking forward to for The Good Wife in 2013?  Can't wait Wendy Scott-Carr to show up or for Eli's past to surface?  Me either!  Sound off in the comments below.

The Good Wife: "Battle of the Proxies"

Episode Title: "Battle of the Proxies” aka The Sweet Smell of Disaster

Season 4, Episode 10 | Original Air Date: Sunday, December 2, 2012

______________________________________________________________

There’s no time to bury the lead this week.  “Battle of the Proxies” caused me to gasp, cover my face, laugh, scream and add to my ‘I didn't see that coming list.’  In fact, I’m almost at a loss for words with this episode.  Almost.

Let’s cut to the chase: The Florrick campaign office was raided, Will duked it out with Laura in court (and then went drinking with her…), Alicia was having sex talks with her kids and Kalinda found out Nick really was smuggling heroin under the guise of a tow-truck business.  Oh.  And then she may have killed him.  Soooo, there’s that.

This week I’m going back to one of my favourite ways to relive an episode: The reaction round-up.  Jump in on the comments below, because, if you’re anything like me, you've got some thoughts!

Battle of the Proxies: Reaction Round-Up

Hot Sauce, Hot Mess

Eli’s eating in a diner, listening to classical music, reviewing campaign stats and playing the air piano.  It’s less glamorous than then air guitar, but we’ll forgive him that because he’s brilliant… and also because we can’t picture him playing the guitar.  In the midst of a concerto, Eli is interrupted by a man looking for hot sauce.  The man, David, seems harmless at first – he likes spicy food and enjoys chatting about accordions – and then he drops a bomb.  Wostergraph Industries.  We don’t know why, but Eli starts to sweat.  David knows something and he is also working at the Department of Justice, so things are beginning to look a lot like disaster. 

Eli’s first call is to Diane from a campaign worker’s phone.  After finding out his lines had been tapped in season two, he’s taking no chances this time around.  Up next?  Showing Diane the picture Kalinda had given him that Nick had stolen from Lana’s apartment.  Looking for a flow chart?  Me too.  Did I mention Eli doesn't want Alicia or Will to know about David and the question of Wostergraph Industries?  

Reaction:  My first ‘I didn't see that coming’ moment of the night, just three minutes in.  Could Eli be the next scandal on the Florrick campaign?  Why did Diane feel the need to wear her sunglasses to the meeting with David in the diner (see below)?  Was she trying to conceal her identity or does she not want to be seen at a place that serves eggs after 1pm?  How does the photo of Eli and Kalinda tie into what David is after?  I have so many questions about this story line.  

Thankfully, we were given a little more to go on.  Apparently, Eli’s association with Wostergraph Industries ties back to his ex, Vanessa (remember, she’s the one who slept with the Bin Laden) and the question of campaign financing.  I love how even though we haven’t seen Vanessa in what seems like a year, she has come back to haunt.  I also love that Eli seems panic stricken.  David is definitely on to something and it looks as though it could be seriously damaging to Peter’s campaign.  The icing on the cake is that since David works for the Department of Justice, apparently he can issue warrants.  So, he does.  He has confiscated the entire Florrick campaign office.  Okay, I really didn’t see that coming.  Phone taps are the least of Eli’s worries now.  Do I smell a third ham sandwich?

The Condom Conundrum

Alicia is busy researching clay loam (for a case, not for apartment balcony landscaping) when she discovers a recent internet search for types of condoms.  Thrown off, she decides to head to the source: her kids.  First up: Zach.  Is he dating Neesa still?  Yes.  Okay, good.  We actually had no idea what was happening with their budding romance, so it’s nice we’re back in the loop.  Are they sleeping together?  Zach says no and I tend to believe him.  Next up: Grace.  Generally, I trust her less, but the look of horror on her face when Alicia asked her about Conner was genuinely priceless.  Also, apparently Conner wants to live in Thailand and play with water balloons after graduation.  Alicia now has multiple things to worry about: sex and Thailand. Okay, make that one thing.  After picking up a stuffed horse from Grace’s floor and petting its mane to remind Grace she’s still “good,” Alicia isn't sure what to think. 

Thankfully, she has Zach, the computer genius, close at hand.  He’s as intrigued as anyone to find out who has been using the Florrick home computer for condom searches, so he decides to clean their cache.  The result?  It all comes back to Thanksgiving and Grandma.  But not Veronica, oh no.  Jackie.  Hello ‘things I didn't see coming.’

The best part?  The following exchange:

Alicia (in one of her most stunning blazers to date): “Zach… we’ll never speak of this again.” 

Zach: “I’m good with that.”

Reaction:  Oh. My. Goodness.  These scenes were a smooth blend of hilarious and horrifying and I loved every minute!  First off: Jackie?!?!??!  I have no words.  This is me.  NO WORDS!  I do, however, have two questions: 1) Will Alicia tell Peter about Jackie’s internet searches? 2) Am I the only one to be delighted by the irony that Jackie tried to spy on Alicia’s computer last year and now she’s been found out because she can’t clear her search history?  Oh sweet justice.   Next: How is Neesa only 15?  Why is she Zach’s study partner… isn’t he preparing to head to college soon?  Color me confused.  Also, why does Grace have a movement lamp (I’m sure that’s not the technical term) above her bed?  Is she three?  I’m not saying I don’t want one – I mean, she really was sleeping like a baby – but still.

One Man and his Swivel Chair

For all of you who are upset about Cary’s lack of screen time, this episode was unlikely to help the situation one bit.  That said, I like to take what I can get, so I’m choosing to focus on how much I love that Cary can swivel around in his chair and talk to Alicia whenever he wants.  I adore these two hashing out cases together – I just wish we got more of it.  On the upside of Cary’s lack of story again this week, he wasn’t replaced or upstaged by Alicia’s new giant giraffe.  Also, his name was dropped and resulted in the beginning of the end of Nick, so, things are coming up roses in the land of Agos.  Well, ish.

Goodbye Nick Savarese

Nick wants Cary off his case.  Alicia wants Nick out of the office.  Cary wants a love interest, a story line and maybe a law firm with Alicia. But back to Nick.  Apparently he didn’t like Cary coming to his tow yard and dropping words like ‘smuggling’ and ‘heroin.’  It’s too bad for Nick that Alicia has Cary’s back on this and doesn’t want him for a client.  After saying Lockhart Gardner will no longer represent him, things get personal.  Nick threatens Alicia and tells her not to go to the State’s Attorney’s Office with anything she’s been told.

Flash forward – Alicia and Kalinda:

Alicia: “Am I not in danger?” 

Kalinda: “You won’t be.”

This kind of statement can only mean one thing: Badass Kalinda time.

With Audra Mae’s ‘Jebidiah Moonshine’s Friday Night’ playing in the background, Kalinda hops in her car and heads to the industrial park where Nick, henchman Bill and a few other random people work.  Gunning it, she drives her car and t-bones a vehicle and nearly some guy.  He ends up on the ground, so she takes him out, grabs his gun and shoots open the truck of another car.  Inside?  Bundles (bricks?) of heroin.  I’m not up to speed on the lingo, but I can tell you it’s a lot of drugs.

Now K knows Nick is the shady dealer he’s been suspected of being, she takes matters into her own hands.  Let’s face it: She can’t have people threatening Alicia.   When it comes to Kalinda, that’s the worst possible thing Nick could have done.  She’ll put up with abuse, theft and drug trafficking, but she won’t stand for threats directed at Alicia.  Everyone has a line – this is Kalinda’s.

The next thing we know, Kalinda is standing face-to-face with Nick.  She tells him to go and gives him a map as well as a key to a locker filled with $10,000.  He basically says, ‘meh’ when it comes to getting out of Chicago and challenges her by asking what she’ll do if he doesn't go. 

Flash forward: Alicia is sipping tequila by herself, waiting for Kalinda while the song, ‘Where is my Mind’ plays in the background.  Kalinda surfaces.

Kalinda: What did I miss? 

Alicia: Not much, where were you? 

Kalinda: Out. 

Alicia: You look relieved. 

Kalinda: I am. 

Alicia: And you’re safe? 

Kalinda: Ya. You are, too. 

Alicia: Good.  What if he comes back? 

Kalinda: He’s not coming back. 

Alicia: You’re sure? 

Kalinda: Ya.

Reaction: I’m sorry, what?  Did Kalinda just kill Nick?!?!  I’ve thought about this scene a million times already and it’s the only possible way I can calculate his guaranteed disappearance.  But how?  She was in Lockhart Gardner’s offices.  Also, her vehicle has to be damaged after using it as a weapon.  We’ve seen the size of hole in her apartment wall and there’s no way a body is fitting in there.  Plus, hiding a body in your apartment seems like a bad idea.  Could she have killed him, taken him back to the tow yard and torched everything?  She has escaped him with fire before, could she do it again?  Would she actually kill someone?  WHAT’S HAPPENING?!?!?  Am I a little impressed that she got rid of Nick and was only a few minutes late for drinks with Alicia?  Yes.  I’m also thrilled that in one foul swoop, Kalinda is back to being deliciously mysterious.    

Two Verdicts: Guilty

Will is in court against Laura, who is turning out to be a formidable opponent.  The case?  A young woman was murdered at a music festival and her body was dumped 50 miles away.  What’s fascinating here is that the case was being tried in Chicago and Minooka County, which means two potential murderers were on trial.  While Alicia was monitoring things in Minooka, Will was holding his own in Chicago. 

The best part about this case was not that Will told Alicia to drive safe and she smiled (the smallest of Team Gardner moments, but I’ll take it!) and not even that Maton Brody was back (I was beginning to think he and Julius had made good their escape), but that we had a meticulously scripted dance between two courtrooms and two cases, both which led to the same questions.  How do you represent someone when you know they’re guilty?  Where is the line between truth and justice?  As Alicia continues to struggle with these moral dilemmas, Will has no trouble drawing a line in the sand: He was hired to do a job.  Guilty or not guilty, he’s there to do the best he can for his client. 

This week, it was an uphill battle that saw Lockhart Gardner lose to the State.  With their client off to jail, Will headed to the bar, where he found Laura.  They had a drinking buying bet going this week, so Will made good on his debt.  He signaled for two drinks (which, by the way, I never understand.  If I were to go into a bar and give the infamous Will point, I’m pretty sure I wouldn't end up with two shots of tequila) and started chatting.

Will: ‘Till the next one. 

Laura: I can’t wait. 

Me: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Sure, I play it cool pretend to play it cool, when it comes to Team Gardner, but these two actually seem to have some chemistry.  This is a horrifying development!  Team Gardner can’t become Team Gardner Hellinger.  Terrific double name aside, I’m seriously upset about where things are going here.   I had liked Laura, but now I might be forced to vote her off the island.  What’s more, I can foresee a scene where Laura goes for drinks with Alicia and says something like, ‘So, I’m dating this guy… and you know him.’  The only saving grace here is that Amanda Peet isn't slated to be around forever (which does make me sad and yet...).  

Why must the writers do this?  Oh drama.  It’s good when it’s happening to Jackie, not so much when it’s happening to me.  And by me I mean Alicia and Will.  Oh for the love of Team Gardner.

What were your reactions to this week's episode?  Love it?  Hate it?  What happened to Nick?  Where are things going with Laura and Will?  

Related to this Post:

• Audra Mae’s ‘Jebidiah Moonshine’s Friday Night’
• Catching up: “A Defense of Marriage” and Giraffes
• This week in news: The Good Wife’s latest briefs
• Food Inspired by The Good Wife: Coming soon