What I’m Watching: The Shrink Next Door (Series Finale)

The Shrink Next Door: Season 1, Episode 8 “The Verdict” (B+)

Opening with a flashback of Marty helping Phyllis and her kids escape her previous relationship was a fitting introduction to the final encounter with these characters. It was sad to think about how much Marty missed in terms of time with his family, and his niece was understandably upset at him reaching out without apologizing. Phyllis made quite the entrance when she nearly broke down the door shouting for Marty to open it, and it was sweet to see them slowly reconnect as Phyllis commented about all the absurd changes Marty had made at Ike’s behest. Not wanting to burn Ike’s manuscript showed that he still felt a connection to him, but that changed when Ike showed up and reacted in the worst possible way. After seeing how Marty spoke to Bruce in the way that Ike spoke to him, it seemed like he was never going to escape, but showing Marty at a Passover seder with his family a year later was indicative of how he had broken free but was continually worried that Ike might show back up. Ike was still delusional during the hearing that took place almost in the present, and he was acting as if nothing had changed. Marty was right to point out that it wasn’t all good times, and having him end by saying they were out of time was perfect. This was an exceptionally well-done show, and I hope it earns plenty of acclaim come Emmy time for all its performances and production elements.

Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Paul Rudd as Ike