Ep 5. Deer God

In Everwood season 1 episode 5, titled "Deer God," viewers witness a complex exploration of grief and healing. The episode focuses on the aftermath of the car accident that killed Andy's wife and Ephram's mother, Julia, as well as the mysterious presence of a deer that seems to be following Andy.

At the beginning of the episode, Andy and Ephram are seen camping in the woods, trying to escape their troubles. However, when they return home, they find that the deer has followed them and is now standing outside their home. Andy is spooked by the deer's presence and believes it to be a sign from a higher power, while Ephram tries to rationalize it as simply a coincidence.

Meanwhile, Nina is dealing with her own grief over the death of her fiancé, who died in a similar car accident. She is struggling to move on and feels guilty for wanting to start a new relationship with Andy. She confides in Andy's sister, Dr. Abbott, who encourages her to be honest with Andy about her feelings.

As the episode progresses, Andy becomes more and more convinced that the deer is a sign from Julia, while his son Ephram begins to experience his own spiritual awakening through interactions with a girl in his piano class. The two storylines converge in a poignant scene where Andy and Ephram share their experiences with each other and begin to see the world in a new light.

Throughout the episode, themes of faith, grief, and healing are explored in a nuanced and moving way. The performances are particularly strong, with Treat Williams as Andy delivering an incredibly heartfelt portrayal of a grieving husband and father. The scenes between Williams and Gregory Smith, who plays Ephram, are especially powerful, showcasing the complex relationship between the two characters as they navigate their shared trauma.

Overall, "Deer God" is an emotionally resonant episode of Everwood that explores the nuances of grief in a deeply affecting way. The themes of faith and spirituality add an interesting layer to the story, while the presence of the deer serves as a haunting symbol of the characters' shared trauma.