Ep 2. They Eat Horses, Don't They?

Ally McBeal season 2 episode 2 titled "They Eat Horses, Don't They?" opens with Ally and Renee bonding over their shared love of horseback riding. As they discuss their upcoming plans to go riding together, Ally's eccentric boss Richard Fish interrupts their conversation, revealing that he has purchased a racehorse named "Buttering" with hopes of flipping it for a large profit.

Meanwhile, the law firm takes on a case involving a restaurant owner who is being sued by animal rights activists for serving horse meat at his establishment. The case becomes complicated when it's revealed that the horse meat was actually purchased from a United States Department of Agriculture-approved supplier, leading the legal team to question the validity of the activists' claims.

As the case unfolds, Ally finds herself torn between her love for animals and her loyalty to her client. She also continues to navigate her complicated feelings towards her ex-boyfriend Billy, who is now married to another woman.

Throughout the episode, there are numerous comedic moments as the characters of the law firm deal with their various quirks and antics. Fish enlists the help of the firm's receptionist Elaine in his pursuit of flipping Buttering, leading to a hilarious scene in which they attempt to give the horse a manicure.

There are also moments of heartwarming sincerity, particularly as Ally grapples with her own feelings of guilt and loyalty towards the animals involved in the case. The show does not provide a clear-cut answer to the issue of horse meat consumption, but rather invites viewers to consider the various perspectives and opinions involved.

As the episode builds to its climax, the legal team is forced to make a tough decision about how to proceed with the case. The final scene leaves viewers with a cliffhanger, as Ally is faced with a startling revelation that could have major implications for her personal life.

Overall, "They Eat Horses, Don't They?" is a compelling and thought-provoking episode of Ally McBeal. It offers a blend of humor, heart, and intelligent social commentary that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. Whether or not one agrees with the show's stance on the issue of horse meat consumption, it's impossible to deny the impact and significance of this episode within the wider context of the show's themes and storylines.