Ally McBeal is a peculiar television show about a thoughtful idealistic lawyer and the way in which she deals with her chaotic life at a Boston firm. Written and produced by David E. Kelly, this television series was a rage among youngsters and adults alike during its premiere and initial seasons. But gradually fans lost interest due to the perennial insecure heroine and eccentric supporting cast that got increasingly entangled in the already outrageous storyline.
Created by David E. Kelley, Ally McBeal marks the debut of actress Calista Flockhart in a network television series. The television series centers around the life of McBeal, the typical “little girl lost,” who after graduating from Harvard as a lawyer finds herself in a law firm that is populated by an amazingly unconventional staff, including her high school sweetheart Billy Thomas. This series was aired from September 1997 to May 2002. Despite low expectation from the network, Ally McBeal proved to be a highly successful attempt from the producer and writer. The well played Ally McBeal portrayed by Flockhart along with its peculiar supporting cast fueled the show for six seasons. Alley McBeal as a show is unique for its foray into the ordinary, but is as conflicting and confused as its main character. Half a frustratingly traditional representation of lovelorn woman, and half feministic endeavor, McBeal precariously danced between Bridget Jones life to law dramas of a more serious nature.
The show had quite a bit of freedom creatively with most episodes switching seamlessly from modern gender issues and sexual boundaries to the absurd toilet flushers, remote control and pet frogs. The series progresses with McBeals’ quest for love and emotional fulfillment, along with the dark tinge of her often questioned sanity. |
