"In Treatment" is the finest

As I don't have HBO, I've been having difficulty catching In Treatment, Season Two. However, I was visiting home recently and had the chance to enjoy the wonderful On Demand HBO. In Treatment is a five-episode a week show (adapted from the Israeli counterpart BeTipul)that I was absolutely enthralled with since the first season, which some critics did not enjoy as much. However, I am happy to say that the second season is even better, and many critics agree.

Let's start with an argument, as usual. I disagree with a statement from Variety's review in March. In this review, Brian Lowry suggests, once again, that the writing is more apparent than the acting, stating that it is "too apparent." In his first review of the program, Lowry was more critical, stating that the screenwriting is self-conscious. I feel that this cannot be an accurate assessment. The writing may seem more apparent in this series because it is (generally) two people in a room talking. People today are used to more action in television and film, and this series is brought together completely by its dialogue. Thus, the writer may inevitably be a part of the viewer's experience; however, this does not take away from the characters. Each character is so raw, honest, and completely relatable. There is always a quality (or qualities) divulged in each episode that one can look and say "Yes, I know that person; I know someone just like that." This is the strength of the show; it is entirely dependent on the writing and that's okay.

Lowry also labels the show as "melodrama," however, I'm not sure I would categorize it as such. I feel that the show is so complex with the character's actions, motives, and minds that it is something deeper, farther than melodrama. Instead of being over-the-top it actually seems under; we must critically analyze the characters as Paul (Gabriel Byrne) does.

Entertainment Weekly's Ken Tucker praises the program, and I actually agree with everything he states - because it contains no negative comments. The characters in season two are arguably more interesting than the previous. I think the praise for this goes to the idea of seeing Paul and the patients out of Paul's office. Throughout the episodes we sometimes catch a glimpse - and even a full episode - outside of Paul's office. We are able to observe the character(s) in a new light, literally. This change is most effective with Paul, certainly more interesting than season one. We see him struggling through more personal difficulties than a crumbling marriage, and we see him personally go through each obstacle. Then, at the end of the week, we observe him psychologically with Gina.

In Treatment deserves more praise than any television show on air. The writing, acting, cinematography, direction and music are totally heart-wrenching, sometimes comedic and always eye-catching. However, as Lowry states, it probably won't catch a large audience, but that's okay. Part of my love for HBO is the secrecy: I am watching a true gem that others aren't able to cherish. It's like an autograph or a limited edition book. It's mine, and no one else's.

P.S. Give Gabriel Byrne an Emmy!