Ep 14. Selling Sickness

In the Boston Legal Season 3 Episode 14 titled "Selling Sickness," the complex and intriguing world of the legal profession continues to captivate audiences as the brilliant attorneys of Crane, Poole & Schmidt face yet another thought-provoking case that challenges their ethical boundaries.

The episode unfolds with Alan Shore (played by James Spader) and Denny Crane (played by William Shatner) taking on the defense of pharmaceutical giant Northbridge that is being sued by a distraught widow whose husband recently passed away due to a heart attack caused by their cholesterol-lowering drug, ClearHeart. This high-stakes case puts Alan and Denny in the spotlight, as they are tasked with convincing the jury that the drug's side effects were clearly stated and that Northbridge cannot be held responsible for the unfortunate outcome.

As the trial progresses, Denny's early signs of dementia start to become more noticeable, leading to moments of confusion and vulnerability that add a layer of complexity to the case. Despite his condition, Denny manages to maintain his charismatic flair, injecting moments of humor amidst the seriousness of the trial. Alan, on the other hand, becomes increasingly introspective, questioning the ethical implications of defending a multi-billion dollar corporation against a grieving widow. The dynamics between the two attorneys become pivotal in shaping the outcome of the trial.

Meanwhile, Shirley Schmidt (played by Candice Bergen) finds herself entangled in a personal dilemma when her former client, Benjamin Ashford, approaches her for assistance. Benjamin had previously been convicted of murder, with Shirley successfully defending him years ago. However, he now reveals new evidence that suggests his innocence. Shirley must confront her own doubts and decide whether to reopen the case, potentially undoing her past victory while exposing a miscarriage of justice.

Amidst these legal battles, the firm also grapples with internal conflicts. Junior partner Brad Chase (played by Mark Valley) finds himself embroiled in a heated dispute with his colleague, Denise Bauer (played by Julie Bowen), after a case involving a foster child goes awry. Their disagreement escalates, leading to confrontations that test their working relationship and force them to confront their own personal biases.

In true Boston Legal fashion, social and political commentary flows through the episode as various legal issues are explored. The episode touches on the influence of pharmaceutical companies on the medical field, the complexities of defending questionable clients, and the moral dilemmas faced by attorneys when seeking justice. Each character's perspective provides insight into these multifaceted topics, highlighting the show's ability to provoke deep thought while offering entertaining and engaging storytelling.

Throughout "Selling Sickness," the exceptional performances of the ensemble cast breathe life into their respective characters. The chemistry between James Spader and William Shatner continues to be a standout, showcasing their unmatched talent and delivering witty banter that remains a trademark of the show. Their portrayal of Alan Shore and Denny Crane navigates the moral gray areas that the legal system often presents, bringing nuance and depth to their characters.

Overall, Boston Legal Season 3 Episode 14 "Selling Sickness" delivers a captivating narrative that delves into the complexities of the legal profession, while also shedding light on broader societal issues. From gripping courtroom drama to introspective character development, this episode exemplifies the series' unique ability to blend legal intrigue with thought-provoking themes, all while keeping viewers hooked with its sharp wit and compelling storytelling.