January 21, 2007: Something Ida This Way Comes
"Medieval" and "mid-level" might sound similar, but unfortunately their meanings are very different. And a coat of arms and people in costume at Nora's 60th birthday party were the least of the Walker family's problems. Between drinking in closets and Sarah's sex tape and grandmothers who don't know when to refrain from commenting, it's a wonder they even had time for cake.
Nora's mother (guest star
Marion Ross) came as a surprise. I wouldn't have pictured her as such an unpleasant person, based on what we've seen of the rest of the Walkers. I guess it takes all kinds to make up a family, though. I think what I liked most about this story line was the realistic approach to the tension between Nora and her mother. They came to an understanding and parted on good terms, but at the same time viewers got the sense that mother and daughter would continue to disagree from time to time. The situation wasn't magically resolved, but if it had been it would have taken away some of the authenticity that makes the Walker family so special. Real families don't fix their problems in an hour.
Kevin's relationship with Chad the TV star doesn't look like it has a quick fix in sight, either. Again, it feels strange to watch Kevin be the one wanting more. Kevin himself admitted this, but I don't think his vulnerability is going to change Chad's mind. The outlook for this relationship doesn't seem good, as Chad's concern with protecting his "image" seems to go against everything Kevin believes in.
As for the rest of the Walker family's relationships, Kitty is continuing to take it slow this time. And the senator seems OK with that. Can it work? If the senator's actions (which included providing his personal chef and dropping off soup) are any indication, it looks like it's a possibility.
It was good to see Justin back this week, and I hope he's able to work things out with Tyler. She said she has a boyfriend, but from the way their conversation ended it seemed like a reunion with Justin could be a possibility. Aside from a brief mention, it was another Holly-free episode. It probably would have been too much of a stretch to have Holly appear at Nora's 60th birthday celebration. She was William's mistress, after all. But since Holly is a part of Ojai now, she's sure to be back soon, whether the Walkers like it or not.
