Holiday Special: The Closer

The Closer: Season 3, Episodes 14 & 15 “Next of Kin, Part I & II” (B+)

This holiday special is a nice return to a show that never really fluctuates in quality. It started out with some terrific episodes at the beginning of this season, and is always a reliable and highly entertaining series. What it truly excels in is using its supporting characters to comic effect without compromising the seriousness of its central plotline. I am talking about the cross-country RV trip and Provenza’s reaction to seeing Brenda’s mom. The “villain” here is also not so villainous, though man is he determined to get out of those vehicles he is forced into for fugitive transport. This special is slightly frustrating in that no real plot-related developments occur than Brenda and Fritz’s finally selling the house and Brenda rectifying her relationship with her father. This is not a huge deal, as the case is good enough and can support this show. ‘Til next summer.