Friday, October 29, 2010

Mad Men Season 4 Finale

Full disclosure here–I've always been particularly fond of Rachel. She and Don had a real connection, until Don's cowardice ended the relationship. I had always hoped it would be resurrected in the future, but when Dr. Faye Miller came on the scene in season four, I became convinced that she would be the one for him.

Well, as we all know now, that ain't happenin'. Don fell in love with Megan. And so did I. (Not with Jessica Pare, the actress who plays her, but with the character she has inhabited.)

With regard to Don's children, the contrast between Megan and all the other women Don has been attached to is striking. Megan seems so natural and calm and caring for the children on their trip West. Betty is rigid and brittle; Faye is awkward and formal. Even Don is shocked with her easy, friendly way with the kids.

I must say that as I watched the last episode live I was both intrigued and horrified with the fast developing relationship between Don and Megan. Horrified, because of what it portended for Don's relationship with Dr. Miller. I can hardly bear to watch the scene in which Don calls it off. I've always liked Cara Buono, the actress who plays Dr. Miller. However, Don's feelings for Faye Miller didn't go deep enough.

Of course, Megan is also gorgeous, but her beauty is nicely flawed. There is something winning in her flaws - her teeth, her herky-jerky moves, her hesitant demeanor. Megan turns them all into points of interest for Don, and for us. Well, for me, anyway. I am smitten. What seems to be her initial hesitation to Don's proposal is better understood to be her concern that he not declare his love unless it's true. That's clear when she accepts his proposal - "Yes! YES!"

Next year should be great (again). I am fully expecting to see Don screw this up.