Cicely

There is such a wonderful quality to this episode, while history it is also a highly intelligent discussion of art and the soul. Almost a miniature Back to the Future III, without the train chase, here we have a real fantasy that is just magic. Watched it the other night and it still retains a glow to it. It was also expensive for the producers had to construct a 1908 version of the town and re-create the Alaska version of the Old West, not easy to do. That all the main characters of the contemporary town show up in the past adds a timeless quality, perhaps the closest we have to a TWILIGHT ZONE equivalent of WALKING DISTANCE.

Wonderful way to spend an hour with good friends, both today and in 1908.

What a lovely piece of work. At this point we have enjoyed the characters and the interplay in the town. This raises the bar to new heights. Joel hits an elderly man on a country road. He is not seriously injured and Joel takes him to his cabin where he relates a tale. The man is 108 years old and claims to have in in Cicely in its earliest days. Here the actors we are used seeing take on the pioneer roles in that time. There are two characters who are not part of that cast, a pair of women who are very close, Roslyn and Cicely. They become the force that tears down the old and brings in the new. This is so poetic and well done. The writing is flawless and the execution superb. Whether the truth was stretched a bit doesn't matter--it works. This show is so wonderful and so far it is the crowning glory.

That only 10/10 stars can be given, may be inadequate for due critical accolades to this episode. And to the series, for which it stands. Maybe need 'extra credit' stars. Words fail to encompass its scope and scale - deliriously entertaining, with inspirational uplift story values. Incredible narrative aplomb and style, achieves 'knockout with feather punch' impact.

Scenario: the human spirit confronted, under duress, targeted by Man's Inhumanity To Man. And its triumph - yet not without bitter sacrifice and tragic loss. Its warm and witty, at the same time sadder but wiser ... and uniquely unforgettable.

The effect it has upon the viewer, maximum catharsis (suggested analogy: amazing grace), can leave one torn. On one hand, normal enthusiasm to sing its praises, tell all the world about it etc. On the other, world being as is ('human condition') - because of the 'pearl of great price' aspect in this show, an almost hierophantic-like impulse can stir - to breathe no word about it to anyone, keep it quiet as if secret warranting careful protection.

One struggles to find a precedent for this highest-of-high NExperiences (like the series in entirety). I might almost compare it with - some ark that's rigorously kept out of sight, 'not for display' - in a tabernacle carefully guarded - off limits, 'no admittance' (and 'mums the word').

This bottom of this show's more-than-just-unique vessel, almost unfathomable - seems a distinct 'transcendent' quality and personal impact. If you watch it, relax, enjoy - maybe prepared. Just in case. It can touch some viewers unexpectedly, in a whole bunch of 'just right' places way down deep, well past the customary and usual contact points for story, arts and entertainment.

Just a show. Still ... I got a few little questions for the guys who conceived and made this one, if I ever get the chance. Meanwhile, bravo guys. Beyond awesome. And thanks - we needed that!