Well, in my opinion (shouts-out to Ana Gasteyer), we are seeing an excellent season of The Good Wife. Feminism, racism, and atheism—oh my! This is how I like my television shows—the big issues, corporate fashion I’ll probably never wear, and Cary’s abs. And although those didn’t make an appearance in this episode, we had some really exciting developments for Cary, as well as Alicia, and all of Florrick/Agos/Lockhart. It’s amazing and impressive to look back, and see how much the show has packed in, in just six episodes.
In “Old Spice” we are learning, along with Alicia, that voters don’t vote for atheists. She needs to find a way to introduce her image to the public, while concealing a very real part of herself. As Jonathan aptly puts it, “They deserve to know who we want them to think you are.” Alicia has to prepare to meet with Pastor Jeremiah, and she’s rightfully terrified. One wrong move, one side-eye towards Christianity, and her campaign will be shorter than the Third Book of John. No? How about this—shorter than Samson’s hair after Delilah got her hands on him. Better?
Back in the courtroom, Elsbeth and Alicia’s case takes an interesting turn, and you can tell that it’s interesting because it now involves “espionage.” As in “economic espionage.” It was fun watching these two team up against ASA Josh Perotti. Poor Elsbeth did her best to distract him while he questioned the witness; too bad the flirting totally distracted her too. And, finally, we got to see these two succumb to their desire in one of my favorite scenes on this show, maybe ever. In the end, Elsbeth gets the goods—and a recorded confession from Josh—so his case is a wrap, which means she can get back to her suit with Alicia. I appreciate that they took care of this storyline quickly. In truth, the case felt like a segue, an excuse for more Elsbeth, and for this bizarre romance to unfold. However, I am perfectly fine with any excuse for more Elsbeth, so this is all fine by me.
Now, can we talk about how Alicia slayed that interview with Pastor Jeremiah? “I’m listening… I’m open.” This was an incredible scene. We could see Alicia struggling inwardly, though outwardly she appeared to be composed, and indeed, open. But the questions about Will and her daughter Grace really got to her (and we saw how her interview effected Grace later), but—oddly enough—she barely flinched. In this—and in other ways—Alicia makes a great politician. And that’s what’s killing her on the ride home with Eli’s daughter Marissa Gold. Which reminds me, can we get more Marissa please? I’d like to see her character really utilized as the season unfolds.
Also, this whole storyline about Alicia as an atheist is, along with the feminist bents and questions about race, very important. I hope that this particular question of religion remains an issue as Alicia continues with her campaign.
The rest of the episode (and, now that I think about it, there was a lot going on) pertained to Cary getting busted again. He drove a half-mile into Indiana, breaking the conditions of his bail. In the courtroom, it was interesting to see how this became a race/class issue as well. The judge has to be certain he doesn’t let Cary get away with a slap on the wrist, as he’s had similar cases with non-white, non-lawyers, and he has to be fair. However, the new conditions of Cary’s bail are a big problem for me, personally, as I am sort of living for this Cary/Kalinda romance. Although, not being legally allowed to hang out could make for some steamy office space lovin’…
And speaking of office space—in the final moments of “Old Spice,” the prodigal daughters return home! I’m very interested in seeing how the new/old space effects Florrick/Agos/Lockhart.
Stray Observations (mostly concerning Elsbeth):
Frankie Faison is the actor playing Pastor Jeremiah, but to me he’ll always be the worst landlord ever.
“Grace, it’s Mom. Religion is in my life again.”
I’ve had my share of LOL moments from The Good Wife. but Elsbeth and the Josh’s “Call Me Maybe” hookup scene had me, literally, choking on a egg roll, tears streaming down my face. I will never look at baby lotion or Old Spice in the same way again. Brilliant stuff.
Also, sometimes, Elsbeth reminds me of Willow from Buffy. This is a good thing.
“Oooh my God, you’re so adorable. Walk with me.” The ASA echoing my exact thoughts about Elsbeth.
Favorite Quote of the Episode: “Have you heard this song I heard on the radio? ‘Call Me Maybe?’ Is it popular?” (Elsbeth, for President).
Shannon M. Houston is Assistant TV Editor at Paste, and a New York-based freelance writer with probably more babies than you. You can follow her on Twitter.