Some of you may remember that I watch very little on tv when it actually airs. That is one of the reasons I am a bad capper of television. I love waiting and watching an entire season in a week or two when it is released on DVD. I will sometimes watch the first episode or two, then turn it off for the rest of the season. I just finished season 3 of Brothers & Sisters and look forward to it's return in a couple of weeks.
To me, Brothers and Sisters is one of televisions hidden gems. It somehow remains under the radar of most tv critics. It does not get the attention that Grey's Anatomy gets. It does not even get the attention Heroes and other shows get, although it certainly does get better ratings. Brothers and Sisters is a well written comic gem which features the talents of some of Hollywood's best. Watching Sally Field every week is a gift. Even though her movie roles have been hit and miss to me, she consistently delivers as Nora Walker. Field gets 'in the moment' of each scene and never lets go. Over the top now and then yes, but so is Nora, so it works.
Add Rachel Griffiths (so brilliant on Six Feet Under) who also does not get the attention she deserves. Her role on Brothers is not as 'out there' as on Six Feet Under, but she still delivers a powerhouse performances week in and week out. Matthew Rhys is also a standout and Calista Flockart proves she is more than just Ally McBeal, and she matches Field note for note in the comedy department.
The stellar acting continues with Ron Rifkin, Patricia Wettig and Dave Annable. Rob Lowe was also given some great scenes this past season.
Not sure if it is because at it's core, Brothers is a soap, damn well written one, but a soap none the less that stops critics from really giving it it's due. The writers balance the difficult task of high drama without being melodramatic beautifully. Brothers hits me emotionally, which very few shows do. They do it in small, beautiful ways. The big dramatic moments don't pack the punch simple interactions between family members around the dinner table are able to hit. Those Walker family dinners always deliver. I do question the hiring of Luke Grimes, although adorable, does not yet have the acting chops to match his co-stars. Maybe he will hit his stride this season.
If you have not watched Brothers and Sisters, get season 1 on DVD and immerse yourself in a well written, dramatic, emotional filled and hilarious family drama that I am sure will hook you!
To celebrate the new season, lets look at yet one more reason to give this show a look.
Luke Grimes
Dave Annable
Matthew Rhys
Balthazar Getty
Luke McFarlane
Rob Lowe
Can't forget Kevin's ex's Eric Winter and Jason Lewis. Even though I love Scottie, I was always rooting for Kevin and Jason (Eric Winter).
Below: Eric Winter
Below: Jason Lewis
