I would rate this episode among the very best ever done in American dramatic television.
First the writing. How rare is it for a series to be centered on such a flawed character. Clearly the writers Bochco, Milch and Mills understand the depths of addiction. I don't know if it is from personal or family experience, but it rings true to the core.
Then there is the performance of Dennis Franz. He commands the frame wherever he appears, as we watch with horror his character's decline. There is a recurring theme on the show of the wounded pride of the alcoholic characters. Andy is the embodiment of wounded pride.
Finally there is a nobility to the efforts of all his colleagues to help him, if he will only let them. Particularly Lt. Fancy, a guy who has been repeatedly insulted and exasperated by Andy's behavior, who gives him a chance to pick himself up again.
I don't believe I have ever seen a more beautiful treatment of human frailty, compassion and redemption than this episode. Praise to all involved.
First the writing. How rare is it for a series to be centered on such a flawed character. Clearly the writers Bochco, Milch and Mills understand the depths of addiction. I don't know if it is from personal or family experience, but it rings true to the core.
Then there is the performance of Dennis Franz. He commands the frame wherever he appears, as we watch with horror his character's decline. There is a recurring theme on the show of the wounded pride of the alcoholic characters. Andy is the embodiment of wounded pride.
Finally there is a nobility to the efforts of all his colleagues to help him, if he will only let them. Particularly Lt. Fancy, a guy who has been repeatedly insulted and exasperated by Andy's behavior, who gives him a chance to pick himself up again.
I don't believe I have ever seen a more beautiful treatment of human frailty, compassion and redemption than this episode. Praise to all involved.
