The last couple
seasons of “Damages” fell slightly in quality. They kept the same format as the
first season, showing flash-forwards to clue us in on the impending damage
caused by the case currently being worked on. The first season made it clear
that one of the characters would be dead by the end of the season, and nearly
every season since has also resulted in a death which is ominously hinted at. The
final season repeats this technique, once again hinting that a significant character
will be dead. It works better this time around, perhaps because something is at
stake and because the mystery behind the situation is a little cleverer than
before, but this show was right to end on this note. There wasn’t anywhere left
for it to go.
The
ripped-from-the headlines cases take a backseat to the show’s rivalry melodrama
in this final season. Ethically questionable practicing of law at the firm
owned and run by Patty Hewes (Glenn Close) continues. This Emmy-award-winning
role showcases both the cold and wicked side of Close, as well as more engaging
and sentimental moments where we are meant to feel for her. Or at least
understand her better. Ellen Parsons (Rose Byrne) now works for herself,
running a small firm in need a chance to make a name. This chance along with
the opportunity for revenge comes in the form of a case against Patty Hewes in
court.
The case
involves an international cyber-hacker (Ryan Phillippe) who has made a name for
himself with a website that allows sanctuary for whistleblowers trying to get
information to the public with anonymity. This all changes when the website
leaks the personal information of its latest whistleblower (Jenna Elfman),
resulting in a death and an impending lawsuit. Patty also engages in a custody
battle with her son over her granddaughter, and Ellen helps her boyfriend
expose the ill treatment of soldier with post traumatic stress symptoms. The
series closes out admirably enough, though with less spectacle than you might
anticipate.
All ten episodes
are includes on three discs, along with special features. There are deleted
scenes and outtakes.
Entertainment Value:
7.5/10
Quality of
Filmmaking: 7/10
Historical
Significance: 6/10
Disc Features: 5/10
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