Downton Abbey, Season 6, Penultimate

The penultimate episode of Downton Abbey should have been titled “All About Mary.”  Love her or hate her, she is the focus of nearly every scene in this extra long installment.  Frankly, this favoritism frustrated me to no end, as Mary seems to be rewarded for her deplorable behavior.  The other plotline twists and turns have become as predictable and famous as the curves on Lombard Street.  Creator Julian Fellows seems desperate to wrap up all the melodrama in a fan-pleasing manner.    Crank up your engines for the victory lap of most popular Masterpiece series ever.

The first moments are straight out of a Monet painting.  Cora and Edith walk in an open field with dainty umbrellas to shield them from the sun.  They discuss Bertie and Edith’s largest secret, her daughter Marigold.  Edith is nervous about telling him versus having a lie at the heart of her marriage.  Cora advises her daughter to tell her suitor the truth.

Sgt. Willis comes calling, this time Ms. Patmore is the subject of his inquiry.  He informs her and Mrs. Hughes the “doctor” guest she had at her boarding house was staying under an alias with a woman who was not his wife.  Ms. Patmore could be called to testify in court in divorce proceedings related to the adultery.  Ms. Patmore’s rooming house was mentioned in the complaint as a “house of ill repute.” Ms. Patmore is hysterical that her new business maybe ruined.  Anna walks in and is happy Sgt. Willis isn’t there to see her or Mr. Bates.

Robert and his sister converse in the library about their mother’s vacation.  Rosemund urges her brother to not blame Cora for the whole situation with the hospital.  Robert explains he wishes Cora wouldn’t take the Dowager’s fury so personally.  The discussion turns to Edith.  Robert is concerned her secret will cause her to be hurt once Bertie discovers the truth.

Mary and Branson walk in town and notice the newspaper headline reporting Lord Hexam, Bertie’s cousin and employer, has died in Tangiers.  Mary seems happy at her sister’s misfortune, deducing he’ll be out of a job as agent to Hexam’s estate. Branson notes her attitude, “Don’t be so gleeful about it!”  A warning which will undoubtedly go unheeded.

The servant’s hall erupts in laughter regarding Ms. Patmore’s scandal of owning a “house of ill repute.”  Molesley is hesitant to ask Mr. Carson for time away in the afternoons so he can teach in the village.  Baxter encourages him to ask for what he needs but Molesley is concerned he’ll only embarrass himself if he fails.

Isobel discusses the wedding invitation she received with Lord Merton.  Lord Merton is confident his daughter-in-law to be has the best of intentions.  Isobel expresses doubt regarding the young lady’s motives.

Mr. Carson isn’t amused by the “scandal” regarding Ms. Patmore’s boarding house.  He fears it could reflect back on the family and thinks the servants should keep the news secret.  His wife disagrees and finds the situation humorous.

Anna informs Mary about Ms. Patmore’s “house of ill repute.”  They have a good giggle about it.  Mary informs her maid about Lord Hexam’s death and “poor Edith.” Anna asks if she’s heard from her spurned lover Henry.  Mary says no, but that is exactly what she wants.

Ms. Patmore shares her anxiety with Daisy.  Mr. Dawes the headmaster pays a call and informs Daisy she has passed her exams with above average results.

Up in the library, Cora and Aunt Rosemund discuss the implications of Lord Hexam’s death.  Edith and Bertie enter the library.  Bertie has come to visit Edith prior to his departure to Tangiers to settle his cousin’s affairs.  He tells the ladies Lord Hexam has been buried already and he thinks not bring his cousin back to England.  Mary says snidely, “Surely that’s the new Marquee’s decision?”  Edith informs them, “Bertie is the new Marquee!”  Mary notes Edith would “outrank us all!” (Marquee is above her father’s title of Earl.)  Robert is ecstatic regarding this development.  Branson adds slyly they all would have to curtsy to Edith.  Mary states, “I don’t believe it!”  Cora notes, “Careful Mary, people will think you’re jealous.”

Mr. Molesley meets with Mr. Carson to discuss his schedule.  He’s requesting the afternoon’s off and promises he’ll be back in time to assist with dinner.  Mrs. Hughes notes they still have Thomas and Andrew to fill in the gaps.  Carson doubts Molesley will be any good at teaching. (Good thing he’s not a parent!)

The family has learned about Ms. Patmore’s difficulties and has a good laugh about it.  When someone’s life long dreams are shattered by a lie, it’s so funny.  Branson informs Mary he’s spoken to Henry and he’s heartbroken and mourning his friend.   Mary says curtly, “Don’t encourage him!”

Edith confers with her aunt regarding her dilemma while walking the Downton grounds under dainty umbrellas.  Edith worries she’ll lose Bertie forever if he learns she’s a mother.  Rosemund implores her to tell the truth.  Edith hesitates, “With my luck, he’ll reject me either way!”

Downstairs, Molesley prepares his lesson plans.  Anna asks Mrs. Hughes if there is a way to help Ms. Patmore.

Robert gets ready for bed in a fine mood.  He exclaims, “Imagine, a copper-bottomed Marquee for Edith!”  Cora reminds him Edith has yet to accept his wedding proposal. Robert muses Mary could remarry a mechanic and Edith a Marquee.  “Edith, who couldn’t make her dolls do what she wanted!”  Cora notes Edith has to tell Bertie about Marigold.  Robert isn’t so sure and doesn’t want things to be spoiled for Edith again.

Mary looks forlorn.  Branson asks if he can invite Henry to Downton.  Mary sighs, “I loved him.  But what is love but an urge that fades.” (That’s lust Mary!)  Branson counters, “Would it have faded for you and Matthew?”  Mary thinks it probably would have.  She is in a dark place presently.  Mary tries to rationalize about the need for someone of her class to marry sensibly and it’s more difficult the second time around.  Mary asks Branson about Marigold, and when he hesitates, she realizes her sister is the mother to the little girl.  Branson implores Mary to give Henry another chance.  Mary is firm, “No, and if you want to be in my good graces, you won’t give him a chance either!”  It’s always Mary’s way or the highway.  Mary is now armed with Edith’s most precious secret.  Dangerous!

Robert, Cora and Rosemund meet in the library for more talk about Edith. Rosemund asks, “Are we going to talk about the scandal we’re hiding?”  Robert would rather this secret stay hidden.  He thinks his sister can’t appreciate the delicate nature of the problem since she’s childless.  It’s hurtful insult to Rosemund.

Edith and Bertie arrive precious seconds after this contentious conversation.  Bertie states he’d like to hold off on assuming his new title until his cousin’s service.  Bertie meets Aunt Rosemund.  Bertie speaks eloquently about Lord Hexam, noting many people didn’t understand him.  Bertie remembers him as “delicate.” (It’s very likely he was a homosexual.)  Cora notes Lord Hexam would be proud Bertie will be his heir.  Bertie becomes emotional upon remembering his cousin and tears up.  He excuses himself.

Once Bertie has left, Rosemund asks Edith, “That’s the man you want to trick into marriage?”  Robert makes excuses and leaves the conversation.  Cora agrees with Rosemund that it would be a mistake to not come clean about Marigold to Bertie.

In the servant’s hall, Carson tells the staff to refer to Bertie as Lord Hexam. (Even against his wishes.)  Thomas receives a letter rejecting him for employment because he is overqualified.  Baxter tells him to keep positive.  Thomas is spiraling into a deep depression.

Isobel has come for lunch and asks Bertie about Lord Hexam and his eccentric lifestyle.  Bertie describes his cousin as man with an artist’s heart.  Mary boldly asks if Bertie has come to Downton to settle things with Edith before he leaves for Africa. Edith looks very uncomfortable.  Bertie is direct, “I hope so!”  Cora asks Bertie about his other relations.  He states it’s just him and his mother, noting, “My mother makes Mr. Squeers look like Florence Nightingale!” (Mr. Squeers is a character in Dickens Nicholas Nickerby novel.  He’s a very nasty person.)

Ms. Patmore and Mrs. Hughes stroll through the village.  A photographer wants to take the picture of the “Madame.”  Fortunately for Ms. Patmore, cameras were too slow in those days to snap photos without the subject staying still.  Ms. Patmore is livid and tells her friend she’s worried she’ll have to close her boarding house because of the bad publicity.  Mrs. Hughes suggests having some tea to soothe the worried cook.

Molesley begins his first class at the school on the subject of history.  The children are restless and pass a note with a cartoon drawing of Molesley.

Edith and Bertie stroll the grounds.  Bertie remarks that his life will be very different now because of his title.  He will have to take a public and political role.  Edith remarks she’s not sure she’s worthy of him.  Bertie assures her, “Mother will be thrilled.”  Edith asks if his mother is really stern.  Bertie thinks his biggest challenge is his own expectations of himself.  He implores his potential bride to help him live up to them.  Edith suggests they go in to tea.  Tea solves everything.

Henry Talbot drives his car through the countryside.  Downstairs at Downton, Ms. Patmore informs Carson the husband has settled the adultery case out of court and she won’t have to testify in court.  Ms. Patmore still fears her business is ruined.  Mr. Carson is less then sympathetic.  The front door is rung and Carson exits to answer it.

In the library, Branson and Bertie put on the classic “Punch and Judy” puppet show for the children.  Carson brings in Henry who sheepishly explains he was “in the neighborhood.”  Robert greets Henry politely but Mary is clearly upset and hisses and Branson.  Cora and Robert invite Henry to spend the night.  Mary suggests that perhaps Henry is “in a hurry” and won’t be able to stay.  Henry informs them he’s not in a hurry.  Mary sits on the sofa and fumes and pretends to read the newspaper for the first time in her life. Henry greets Bertie and asks if things between him and Edith are “settled.” Bertie reports he hopes so.  Henry says, “I envy you.”  Cora whispers to Robert, “Henry has grossly miscalculated our daughter.”

Molesley continues to fight for control of his students without success.

Mary rips into Branson for inviting Henry to Downton.  Henry interrupts them and addresses Mary directly.  He says he’s searched his whole life for a woman like Mary.  Mary shoots back that their relationship would never work and Henry would be “outranked” by her son George. (As if that was the most important thing!)  Henry persists stating he’ll fight for her.  Mary storms out, furious that this man loves her!

Cora and Rosemund continue to discuss how Edith should tell Bertie about Marigold.  Mary walks in and demands to know what they’re talking about.  Rosemund thinks quickly and says they were discussing how Bertie might not be happy Edith was Michael Gregson’s heir.  Mary walks out.

After dressing for dinner, Mary storms into her parent’s bedroom to rail against their offer to let Henry stay the night.  Cora explains it was the polite thing to do. Robert notes he came to see Mary.  Mary is still fuming, “Send him away!”  Rosemund notes, “She’s clearly mad about him!”

The staff wants to know how Molesley’s first day teaching went.  He mumbles it was hard and runs upstairs.

The family has gathered for drinks before dinner.  Robert asks Bertie how he’s traveling to Tangiers.  Everyone is shocked to learn he is flying.  Henry is clearly jealous of such an adventure.  Edith looks at Henry with pity and notes her sister is a “handful.” (Understatement of the decade.)  Mary whispers to Branson, “If only Henry was a Marquee.”  Branson looks disgusted, “If that’s your reason, shame on you!”  Mary remains hostile, “Don’t lecture me!”  It won’t do any good.

Henry chases after Mary as she leaves the room.  She spits at him, “I can’t bear to maneuvered!”  Henry replies, “It must be my lack of money and title.  Your better then that!” (No, she really isn’t.)  Mary reminds him she didn’t invite him, at least. Henry is hot, “Are you calling me a gold-digger?”

Anna and Mr. Bates have a private moment downstairs.  Anna notes Lady Mary loves Henry but she can’t control him.  Mr. Bates notes Lady Mary is a bit of a bully.  Anna defends her mistress, insisting she has a softer side and Henry sees it.

Bertie catches Edith on the way back to his room.  Now would be an ideal time to tell him about Marigold.  Bertie asks, “Will you send me to bed happy?”  Edith blushes that his questions sounds indecent.  Edith continues to be vague, and says she loves him but she’s not as “simple as I used to be.”  Bertie decides to take this answer as a “yes.”

At breakfast, Mary learns that Henry has left early in the morning.  Although that’s what Mary wanted, she sulks at the news.  Robert excuses himself to avoid Mary’s ire.  Bertie notes he sad Lord Grantham isn’t present to hear his good news.  Edith looks nervous and says, “It’s not the right moment.”  Mary begins to quarrel with her sister.  Edith says, “The one thing Mary can’t stand is that I have a man and she doesn’t!”  Bertie thinks that can’t be true.  Edith continues complaining about her sister.  Mary says Bertie must be a very special man to considering his acceptance of Marigold.  Bertie looks bewildered and asks Edith what she’s talking about.  Edith inhales and admits, “Marigold is my daughter.”  Bertie gets up and leaves without a word.  Mary pretends she didn’t know Edith hadn’t told Bertie the truth.  This is the second time has prevented her sister from marrying.

Robert tells Cora Bertie is getting a taxi to the station.  He promises his wife he’ll sort out the matter.  Rosemund has an idea to help Ms. Patmore’s boarding house.  She suggests the family go there for tea and garner some positive publicity.

Isobel has tea with Ms. Crookshank in her garden.  She questions the wedding invitation she received.  Ms. Crookshank says shrewdly, “Men dig themselves in without considering all the options.”  It was clear from the Dowager’s visit with her, the “option” is Isobel acting as Lord Merton’s nurse and then inheriting nothing.  Isobel is not fooled and insists Larry must invite her himself if he wants her to attend their wedding.

Mr. Carson is against the plan for the family to patronize Ms. Patmore’s boarding house.  Mrs. Hughes is sick of his snobbery and notes the family “are adults” and can make their own decisions.  Carson is upset, “I knew women were ruthless, but I never expected to find proof in my own wife!”  Mrs. Hughes takes this overly dramatic comment in stride.

Branson confides to Robert that Mary told Bertie about Marigold at breakfast.  Robert is at his eldest daughter’s ruthlessness.  Even he concedes, “She isn’t always kind.”

Bertie and Edith speak outside.  Bertie tells her she “Hasn’t been fair.”  Edith admits she should have told him.  Bertie says the real issue is trust, and because of this deception he doesn’t know if he can ever trust her again.  Edith apologizes and notes that she has “thrown it all away.”  Bertie hastens to leave.  Edith extends her hand to him in friendship saying, “I doubt will meet again.”  She wishes him good luck in his life.  It’s a heartbreaking scene.  It appears the damage is irreparable.

Branson confronts Mary. “You got what you wanted.  Bertie is gone.  Edith won’t be the next Marquesas of Hexam.”  Mary plays innocent, “It’s not what I wanted, how was I to know Edith hadn’t told him?”  Branson can see through her, “You can’t keep ruining everything just because you’re unhappy.”  Mary says she won’t lower herself for him (Henry).  Branson loses his patience with the ice queen, “You’re not the Princess of Zelda!  You ruined Edith’s life today.  How many more lives will you wreck?  You’re a coward! Like all bullies, you’re a coward!”  Thank you Branson for speaking for the audience.

Anna plans to walk to school to offer Molesley some moral support.  She passes Thomas in the hallway.  He looks solemn but says he’s fine.  It looks like he’s decided to kill himself.

Mary wears a suit like vest and skirt.  She hears Edith sobbing in her room and goes to her.  Mary tries to apologize but Edith sees through her. “Branson or Papa has made you feel guilty.”  Edith continues that she can fool some people but she knows her sister to be “a nasty, scheming bitch!”  She orders her sister to leave her alone. As she leaves Edith says, “By the way, Henry’s perfect for you, you’re just too stupid and stuck-up to see it!”  The argument seems the sum of years of dysfunction and is truly cathartic.

In the library, Carson announces Ms. Patmore would like a word with the family.  Ms. Patmore asks, “Should you be made to pay for my mess?”  Carson, who’s obviously put her up to this conversation adds, “I don’t want to see the family dragged down in a tawdry, local brouhaha!”  Even Lord Grantham is impressed by Carson’s level of snobbery.  Robert tells Carson Ms. Patmore is part of the family and it’s the least they can do to help her.  Ms. Patmore tears up with gratitude after these words.

Baxter gives Molesley a pep talk as they walk home after his disastrous first day on the job.  She encourages him to speak to the students about his background. Molesley notes that Thomas was in a “strange mood” before he left and told him, “I hope you make more of your life then I’ve made of mine!”  Baxter remembers how distressed Thomas looked and runs back to Downton, fearing he has taken his life.

When Baxter arrives to the servant’s quarters, she asks for Andy to come with her to check on Thomas.  After knocking and calling out, Andy breaks down the door.  They find Thomas in the bathtub with his wrists slit.

Daisy asks Ms. Patmore if she can go to the school to see Mr. Molesley and the cook lets her go.  Edith wants Branson to discretely drive her to the station so she can go back to London.  She mentions she and Mary had an argument that was years in the making.  Branson offers to try to talk to Bertie.  Edith thanks him for the offer but fears it would do no good.

Thomas is unconscious.  Mrs. Hughes and Baxter worry about what to do, they decide to lift him out of the tub and send Andy to get Dr. Clarkson.  The women worry briefly about getting him out of his wet clothes but reckon it’s a matter of life and death.

Daisy listens outside Moseley’s classroom.  The children listen to him as he tells them he was and still is in service.  He tells his students that education is key to bettering themselves and to dream of becoming Prime Minister.  The students relate to Molesley’s background as many of their parents are also in service.  Daisy listens and smiles.

Aunt Rosemund and Cora lecture Mary.  Mary doesn’t seem to be paying attention. Carson enters and whispers to Robert that Thomas has tried to kill himself.  He informs the ladies, “Thomas has cut his wrists!”  Robert sits down.  With the servants occupied, Mary goes to serve the tea.  Mary asks her father, “Do you think the idea of dismissing Barrow was worth it?”  Robert looks at his evil daughter in horror, “That’s below the belt, even for you!”  Mary can’t seem to help herself from being cruel to all those who love her.

Carson later reports to Lord Grantham that Dr. Clarkson was able to stitch up Thomas without a trip to the hospital.  Carson wants to keep the matter quiet and will tell the other staff simply that Thomas is feeling poorly and will have a few days off.  Molesley gets applause from the staff to celebrate his successful day of teaching.

Anna gives Mary an update on Thomas’s condition.  Mary wants to keep the matter quiet for Barrow’s sake. (And the family’s)  Mary reflects that she ruined Edith’s life today and Thomas tried to end his.  She tells Anna, “I am sorry.”  Anna asks what she’s planning to do about Henry.  Mary angers, “No one can believe I know my own mind!”  She has an interesting choice of words here; she is letting her mind rather than her heart make her decision about Henry.  Moments later, Mary apologizes for her outburst.

Edith confides in her editor Laura about recent events.  Edith blames herself, noting Mary and her have been life-long rivals.  The advice columnist is arriving soon for an interview.  The two decide to use a code word “bananas” if they feel the anonymous person is the true author of the column.

Mary and Master George pay Thomas a visit.  George offers Thomas an orange because he heard Thomas isn’t feeling well.  Thomas tells Mary he has his self to blame for pushing others away.  This is not exactly true; Carson and Andy have made his life especially difficult.  Mary instantly makes the conversation about her, and laments how everyone is mad at her for ruining Edith’s life.  Attempting suicide isn’t really the same as deliberately breaking up your sister’s relationship.

Ms. Patmore and Daisy prepare items in the kitchen to serve the Grantham’s when they come for tea.  Ms. Patmore wants everything to be perfect.  Carson stews about the situation, concerned the family may sit at the “adulterer’s table.”  Mrs. Hughes reminds him they have surely entertained adulterers upstairs.  Carson, ever concerned about image, worries someone may discovery there is a suicidal footman upstairs.  He seems to have no guilt about pushing Thomas in that direction.  Carson is relieved the Dowager isn’t about to see the state of things.

Speak of the devil; Branson helps the Dowager out the car.  He summoned her return urgently from the South of France.  The Dowager is upset Mr. Spratt was not at her residence noting a good butler would know she could possibly return.  She thanks Branson and wants to see “her two heartbroken granddaughters” straightaway.  Branson informs her Edith has left for London.  The Dowager marches inside to look for Mary.

Ms. Patmore and staff leave the kitchen for her boarding house.  Mrs. Hughes has forgiven Carson for his stuffy attitude regarding the event.  She notes he may be a curmudgeon but “You’re MY curmudgeon!”

Mary is surprised by her grandmother’s sudden appearance.  The Dowager tells her granddaughter she traveled a full day and night to get there.  Mary says if she’s come to scold her about Edith don’t bother, Branson has already done that.  Mary says she’s sorry and the Dowager agrees she should be.  But the Dowager wants to discuss Mary why she broke thing off with Henry.  Mary tells her he had “nothing to offer.”  The Dowager rejects this and says, “What’s important is he loves you and you love him!”  The Dowager remembers that Tony Gillingham was a perfect match, but not for her.  Mary breaks down and confesses the real reason she broke up with Henry is she didn’t want to be a “crash widow” again.  She couldn’t bear to ask Henry to give up racing for her believing he would resent her for it.  Mary asks half-heartedly for her grannie to find her a Duke.  The Dowager counters, “You like being cold, selfish and grand but I believe in love!” Mary smiles, “Granny, you do surprise me.”  The Dowager instructs Mary to make peace with herself and then her sister.  In many ways Mary and the Dowager are alike, but this conversation highlights that even the Dowager has a bigger heart than Mary.

Robert gets ready to leave to have tea at Ms. Patmore’s boarding house.  He is bewildered by the Dowager’s swift return.  Carson asks Lord Grantham if Thomas can stay on at Downton.  Carson acknowledges he didn’t give Thomas credit for having feelings or a heart.  It seems that no one understands Thomas very well.  In the beginning, he did do some nasty things but he has changed over the years.  What hasn’t changed is everybody’s perception of him.

Mary tells Branson she’s invited Henry for the tea.  Mary is eager to make her peace with him while acknowledging making peace with her sister will be more difficult.

In London, Laura and Edith wait to meet the advice columnist “Ms. Jones.”  It surprises them when Mr. Spratt appears to proclaim he is the author.  The women both exclaim, “Bananas!” (That explains why Spratt wasn’t there to meet the Dowager when she arrived home.)

Mary visits Matthews grave.  She speaks to him out loud, “I love him.  We are right together.  I hope you are happy for me, as I would have been happy for you.  I’ll always love you.”  Isobel approaches.  Mary tells her former mother-in-law that she is sorry she doesn’t visit Matthew more often.  Isobel senses Mary is thinking of marrying again.  She adds, “Not that you need it, but you have my blessing.”

The Grantham family enjoys tea and Ms. Patmore’s place. A photograph will be taken to remember the day. The villagers have come out to see the residents of Downton up close.

Back at Downton library, Mary meets with Henry and Branson for once leaves them alone.  He has been a curious part of their courtship.  Mary references Branson’s words as she declares to Henry, “Marriage should be equal in strength and passion. I have met my match!”  Henry exclaims, “Thank God for you!”  He wants to marry her as soon as possible and he has made plans to have the wedding that weekend.  Carson pops into the library to catch the couple kissing.  He exits swiftly and advises Molesley to wait before bringing in their tea.

It’s the day of the wedding and Branson remarks this is the second time he will serve as best man when Mary weds.  Edith has returned from London and visits the ladies preparing Mary for her ceremony.  Mary is surprised and the others leave the sisters to speak in private.  Edith knows Mary is sorry because she’s not “insane.” Edith knows Mary will be nicer for a time now that she is happy again.  Mary doesn’t like her assessment and asks, “Why are you here?”  Edith replies, “Because you’re my sister and we have more shared memories than mutual dislike.” After everyone else is gone, their shared history binds them.  Edith adds, “Matthew wanted you to be happy, he’d be pleased.”  She even says Mary looks nice.  Edith is far from perfect, but it is amazing she has forgiven her sister so quickly.

The family makes their way to the church.  Lord Merton asks Isobel if she has heard from Larry.  The Dowager answers, “The ball is in Larry’s court, only he can play it!” The ceremony is swift and simple.  Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes hold hands recalling their recent nuptials.  Mary and Henry look amazing and happy together.  In the coach riding away Mary playfully warns her new husband, “I better not be sorry!”  Robert and Cora watch Mary and Henry ride away.  Robert expresses hope that Edith will somehow find happiness and she has been the daughter he’s been most surprised by.  The children play amongst the headstones.  Edith watches Marigold wistfully.

So ends the penultimate episode.  I still hold out hope that Edith will get her happy ending.  Mary seems to embody the cold, emotionally unavailable English woman who drives all the men crazy by her rejection of them.  Frankly, it disgusts me while far more sympathetic characters like Branson no romantic prospects.  The Dowager has shown she still has a role to play as the true heart of Downton.  The minor characters seem to be well on their way to creating lives after service.  Ms. Patmore has her business and Molesley has his classroom.  If the series was meant to be a nostalgic look back at the “good old days” of the aristocracy at least it has shown the characters both upstairs and down have adapted to the changing times.  Not everyone will have a happy ending, but I believe the series will end on an optimist note and that will make the fifty-two hours we’ve spent at Downton worthwhile.

American Crime Story, The People Vs. O.J. Simpson, Episode 4, 100% Not Guilty

This week’s installment hones in on the preliminary hearing and jury selection of the “trial of the century.” (Which for some reason, Murphy and Company have to repeat every hour.) The defense and prosecution strategies are laid out, and have very different views of what kind of jury will help them win their case.  The media circus continues with lawyers calling press conferences and Nicole’s “friend” Faye Resnick cashing in with the first book regarding the Simpson case.  It’s a depressingly familiar pattern that persists with high profile crimes today.  A little note on semantics, since the series is based in the ‘90’s “black” was the common term for African-Americans.  I will use the term as it’s used in the series.

Well-dressed people dance in a club to the ubiquitous ‘90’s hit “Everybody Dance.” O.J. moves through the crowd with Nicole behind the velvet rope to the VIP section of the club. In reality, O.J. stares down at his prison dinner before smashing his tray against the wall in frustration.

In a corporate law office, the defense team gathers sheparded by Robert Shapiro inviting everyone to enjoy the “lox and whitefish.”  Shapiro begins the meeting with a shocking question, “Who here thinks O.J. is guilty?”  The room becomes quiet, Shapiro continues, “Me neither, let’s begin!”  F. Lee Bailey begins with a discussion about the “downtown jury.”  Johnnie Cochran informs the group black men view O.J. favorably but black woman dislike him because he married a white woman. Shapiro says to Cochran, “You know how these people think.”  Shapiro seems unaware of his gaff, but Cochran warns him to watch his tone.  Shapiro moves on and emphasizes everything the prosecution says; the defense team will challenge it down to Marsha Clark’s request to use the restroom.  This is definitely a room full of misogynists.

At the first preliminary hearing the prosecution requests a hair sample from Mr. Simpson.  Johnnie Cochran refuses this standard request.  They continue to haggle for Simpson’s hair like they are at an auction.  Finally, the defense requests and is granted a special hearing regarding the hair sample.  Confusion and delay is the name of the game.

O.J. summoned from his cell for a visitor.  Simpson is upset to find Cochran without his best friend Robert Kardashian.  O.J. begins a litany of complaints about the prison toilet and food. His chief complaint is “Everyone thinks I’m guilty!” Cochran begins a rambling pep talk to the former NFL star.  He references a difficult period in his life when watching Simpson play football inspired him to keep on going. (It seems a little too sweet to be true; Cochran is a master of manipulation.) Cochran tells O.J., “My self pity stopped that day.”  Cochran completes his pep talk by saying, “Get up, this is the run of you’re life.” (“Run of His Life” is the name of the book the series is based on.)

Judge Ito (Sons of Anarchy’s Kenneth Choi) is dressed casually in a tracksuit as he reviews documents in his chambers.  He speaks to a uniformed female officer we learn is his wife Margaret who holds the rank of Capitan.  He informs her he has been selected to her the Simpson case.  The couple embraces and Ito tells her he was selected because of his “integrity and strong backbone.”  He presents her with a “Spousal Conflict Form.”  She lingers on one name listed on the form, Detective Mark Furhman.  She signs the form but this detail will likely be important later.

The plea hearing is held with both the Simpson and Brown and Goldman families in attendance.  Judge Ito addresses Simpson and asks for his plea to the charges against him.  Simpson confidently replies, “One hundred percent not guilty.”  This causes smiles on the defense side and utter disbelief for the victim’s families.

F. Lee Bailey and Shapiro meet in private to discuss Johnnie Cochran’s influence of their client.  Bailey thinks Cochran is “planting ideas into his head.”  Shapiro exclaims the case isn’t winnable and their job is to make the plea deal more palatable.”  Lee is upset that he’s being paid for his services and highlights the famous cases he’s tried including Sam Shepard and Patty Hearst.  Shapiro counters, “You’ll dine out on this for the rest of your life.”  Bailey is not impressed, “At least Patty Hearst paid!” (Ah, back when the Hearst’s ruled the world.)

Faye Resnick to a few questionable reporters about the “spiritual void” she has felt since Nicole’s death.  She claims Nicole contacted her through a psychic and told her to write a book.  Faye confesses she has a problem with cocaine but is working on it. Faye continues to reveal Nicole had breast implants, which O.J. paid for, but she enjoyed having them.  Resnick says Nicole was promiscuous and engaged in an activity called a “Brentwood hello” which she describes giving unsuspecting males fellatio.  The men are eager to hear more and declare, “We’re going to sell a lot of books!”

Christopher Darden is working on the A.C. Cowling case.  He has discovered O.J. may have been planning to leave the country and had taken a large sum of cash, disguises and his passport on his famous Bronco ride.  As he speaks, he notices the Goldman family has come to see Marsha Clark.

Clark greets the Goldman’s.  Marsh begins by saying, “I know what you’re going through.”  The comment enrages Fred Goldman who vents his frustration at the media for focusing all their attention on O.J. and Nicole.  Fred states, “My son is a footnote to his own murder!”  Fred is frustrated how the press has reduced Ron to a superficial cliché, “male model and club promoter.”  Mr. Goldman emphasizes his son was a good man, who volunteered with disabled children and didn’t drink or use drugs.  “Never in my worst nightmare could I have imagined this.”  He asks Clark whether she has children and she confirms she has two sons.  Fred tells her, “I pray you never have to read the autopsy report on your own child.”  The distraught father explains the sheer viciousness of Ron’s death, stating he was stabbed multiple times and the murderer continued to stab him after he was dead.  Marsha is sobered and vows, “We are going to get him.”  Fred looks her in the eye and replies, “You better!”

Bill Hodgeman brainstorms the circumstances surrounding the murders.  He theorizes if O.J. was “lying in wait” the state could pursue “special circumstances” which may lead to a death penalty case.  Clark enters hot from her meeting with the Goldman’s.  She agrees they should pursue the death penalty.  Gil Garcetti disagrees, “We can’t kill O.J., we can’t even kill Charles Manson.” (Manson originally was sentenced to death, had his sentence converted to life in prison when California abolished the death penalty. Later, the death penalty was re-established but Manson and approximately seven hundred others are still waiting on death row at San Quentin. )

Garcetti has brought in a jury expert named Vinson. Clark doesn’t feel she needs assistance with jury selection.  Clark states she is confident black women with empathize with Nicole as an abused woman.  Her opinion is opposite of what the defense has discovered regarding black women’s feelings toward Mr. Simpson.

Vinson hosts a focus group to survey attitudes regarding the case.  Most blacks in the group think O.J. is innocent while whites feel Mr. Simpson is guilty.  Vinson shows a clip of Marsha Clark during the preliminary hearing.  A white woman raises her hand and opines, “She seems like a bitch.”  Others in the group agree with her and criticize her hair and wardrobe and that she seems like a “know it all.”  Both men and women harbor these blatantly sexist opinions.

Vincent presents his results to Clark.  She is understandably hurt and defensive.  She feels like black women like her.  Vinson advises her to limit their number on the jury.  He also suggests Clark “wear skirts and get a new hairdo.”

The defense is busy doing their jury research.  They’ve learned people feel more sympathy for O.J. then Nicole especially black woman who find him “charming and handsome.” The same women characterize Nicole as a “gold digger.” Robert Kardashian is upset by these comments because he knew Nicole well and knew that she loved O.J.

Faye Resnick dictates her story to Mike Walker, a “journalist” from the National Enquirer.  She continues to detail Nicole’s sexual relationship with her ex-husband. She alleges Nicole would sleep with other men and O.J. would watch her through a window.  She characterizes the couple as the “most un-divorced divorced couple.”

Clark is working late at the office.  The potential jury pool may become a world record with over nine hundred people to choose from.  Christopher Darden approaches Clark about his progress on the A.C. Cowling case.  She informs him that Garcetti wants to drop the case against A.C. to focus on the Simpson murder trial. She offers Darden a drink from her personal work stash.  After a shot or two they discuss how people are scrambling to be on the jury.  The questionnaire has grown to over two hundred questions.  Clark looks at Darden and asks, “You know what O.J.’s biggest problem is?”  Darden responds, “He did it?”  Clark laughs but says she feels his biggest problem is the egos of the attorneys on his “dream team.”  She predicts the men will tear each other apart in order to dominate the spotlight. Darden advises her not to underestimate Johnnie Cochran.  He notes Cochran has an 8/10 rating amongst potential jurors while Clark’s rating is 4/10.  This information is hurtful to Marsha but she asks Darden, “What am on not seeing?” Darden states people in the community see Cochran as their advocate; they find him real and relatable.  Again Darden reminds Clark not to underestimate Cochran.

F. Lee Bailey and Johnnie Cochran meet privately to discuss Robert Shapiro.  Bailey cautions Cochran that Shapiro is “not right for the case.” Bailey doesn’t want Shapiro to settle the case out of court.  He encourages Cochran to “make a move.”

The jury selection begins.  Long lines of people file into court. Both defense and prosecution are present as is the defendant.  Judge Ito presides.  Shapiro complains to Cochran the prosecution is dismissing too many blacks and thinks they should hold a press conference but Cochran should speak because of his race.  There is an awkward silence and then Shapiro states he’ll do the press conference.

Johnnie has another plan.  He gets his shoes shined and the media swarms around him to interview him about the jury selection.  This ploy works to steal the spotlight from Shapiro’s press conference.

The press reports about the unfair dismissal of potential black jurors.  Clark states she isn’t worried about the accusation because it’s not true.  Garcetti sees it differently, if the public perceives a bias they have a problem.  He theorizes they need a black attorney on the State’s team.  Clark suggests Darden.

O.J. is visited in prison by his defense team.  He laments his continued incarceration and wonders if he’ll be out to take his kids “Trick or treating” for Halloween. (He seems incapable of seeing the big picture.)

The Faye Resnick book is published.  Judge Ito calls the state and defense attorneys in for an emergency meeting.  Ito states he’s deeply troubled by the book. Shapiro jumps at the chance to suspend the jury selection. (Keeping with their strategy of confusion and delay.) All parties read the tabloid book; Ito highlights and takes notes in his copy.  Robert Kardashian shares the book with O.J. who denies Faye’s allegations about Nicole including that he forced her to get six abortions.

Resnick is an instant celebrity for profiting of her murdered friend.  She appears on “Larry King Live.”  She tells the crusty host, “I hope Ito is a better judge then book critic.”  She claims she wrote the book to help other women escape from domestic violence.

Judge Ito moves to resume jury selection despite Shapiro’s protests.  Clark accuses the defense of instigating the “media circus” and playing the “race card.”  Shapiro is despondent, “How dare they!”  Johnnie Cochran takes the accusation in stride.  He states “O.J. is a black man accused of murder in America, if that’s the race card, so be it!”  Outside the meeting, Shapiro is upset with Cochran for undermining his position in the meeting.  The struggle for dominance continues to affect the proceedings. 

It’s F. Lee Bailey’s turn to go on Larry King.  The attorney denies the allegations of defense in fighting.  Bailey goes on to note all the unflattering things that are said about Shapiro, but states Shapiro is the head of the defense team.  Shapiro watches the interview from home and is upset by the underhanded comments.

The jury selection winds down.  Shapiro’s goal is to seat five black women. Hodgeman whispers to Clark that he’d like one more white man on the jury.  Clark urges Hodgeman to “trust them” and seat the last juror, a black woman.  The defense readily agrees to the jury believing it to be in their favor.  O.J. whispers to Cochran, “If these people convict me maybe I did do it!”

The defense has gathered for a conference call with their client.  They are happy to inform O.J. his neighbor’s maid will testify she saw O.J.’s white Bronco at 10:15pm, which would punch a large hole in the prosecution’s timeline.  Shapiro enters the meeting with a bold proposal.  He wants O.J. to cut a deal on a manslaughter charge. Shapiro concocts a narrative that O.J. followed Nicole home from the restaurant, upset and intent on slashing her tires.  They argued and the presence of Ron enraged him and he committed the murders in the heat of passion.  The room and the phone line go silent.  Robert Kardashian and Cochran stare at Shapiro. Kardashian breaks the silence by asking, “So when do we meet the maid?”  Shapiro seems woefully out of touch with the will of his client and the rest of the team.

Shapiro is leaving for a weekend trip to Hawaii.  His wife notes there are allegations Nicole went to a shelter for battered women five days before the murders.  This coupled with the 911 calls are especially damning.  His wife complains how the case has alienated her friends.  She begs her husband to quit because O.J. is guilty. Shapiro fires back, “You think I don’t know that?”  His wife asks, “Do you think there will be more riots?”

Clark meets with Darden and offers him a seat at the prosecution table.  Darden happily accepts.

O.J. meets with his good friend Kardashian.  O.J. is puzzled how the media has turned on him.  Kardashian advises him to make Johnnie Cochran the lead attorney.

Shapiro returns from his quick vacation still wearing a Hawaiian shirt.  He is troubled to learn all of his case files on the Simpson case have been moved to Cochran’s office.  The New York Daily News, a tabloid, publishes an article reporting Shapiro has been fired from the “dream team.”

Shapiro joins a defense team meeting with O.J. on the phone.  He’s livid at the team for taking his files.  Bailey speaks to O.J. using football analogies comparing the trial to a game.  Bailey encourages O.J. to let Cochran make the opening statements because he can translate into a “downtown dialect.”  O.J. agrees, “Do it!”

The court assembles for the beginning of the trial. “Black Superman” plays in the background.  O.J. looks over at the prosecution side and asks, “When did they get a black attorney?”

The episode highlights the continued struggle for media spin even before the case went to court.  Clark will prove to be completely incorrect regarding her relatability with female black jurors.  Shapiro is also seen to be “tone deaf” in issues regarding race.  Cochran has effectively taken charge of setting the pace and the tone of the proceedings.  The truth is playing second fiddle to public perception and in this case that will make all the difference.