Very well acted episode about mortality. Mac's despised, abusive father -- from whom she has been estranged since she was 17 -- is dying of cancer at a Catholic hospice in Fresno, California. A priest calls to tell her that the man would like to see her before he passes. Another fine performance from Catherine Bell. But, with all due respect, Conchata Ferrell is pretty badly miscast as Mac's mother.
2 Reviews
Fills an important gap in the back-story of Sarah Mackenzie
hindsonevansmike16 September 2018
This episode is crucial (and we learn a significant amount) in understanding the childhood of Sarah Mackenzie - including a big hint as to why she has problems in forming lasting, trusting relationships.
The appearance of Michael Tucci, as Father Gennaro, is in contrast to the bumbling "Norman" from "Diagnosis Murder" (which was being filmed during this time in his career).
Catherine Bell's acting style and range had developed by this episode, late in the 4th series of "JAG". She runs the gamut from confusion to anger and (just a little) compassion.
The background to her childhood (abusive alcoholic father who left when she was 17, mother who abandoned them when Sarah was aged 15) is explored and she utters a memorable line about "the scars on what is left of MY soul" in one of her impassioned scenes.
The reconciliation with her mother is sweetly - yet poignantly - handled. We understand more about Sarah ("Mac") the woman, by learning about Sarah the terrified child. Sarah makes a decision about her parents.
The appearance of Michael Tucci, as Father Gennaro, is in contrast to the bumbling "Norman" from "Diagnosis Murder" (which was being filmed during this time in his career).
Catherine Bell's acting style and range had developed by this episode, late in the 4th series of "JAG". She runs the gamut from confusion to anger and (just a little) compassion.
The background to her childhood (abusive alcoholic father who left when she was 17, mother who abandoned them when Sarah was aged 15) is explored and she utters a memorable line about "the scars on what is left of MY soul" in one of her impassioned scenes.
The reconciliation with her mother is sweetly - yet poignantly - handled. We understand more about Sarah ("Mac") the woman, by learning about Sarah the terrified child. Sarah makes a decision about her parents.
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