Damages returns tonight for season 4, something that seemed unlikely after FX cancelled it last year. DirecTV is the new home for Patty Hewes and Co. meaning longer episodes with no commercial interruption and few limitations with regards to language and violence. This season of Damages focuses on a Blackwater type private military contractor and the murky and complicated world that comes with war.
When we last saw Patty (Glenn Close), Ellen (Rose Byrne) asked her "Was it all worth it?" and this season seems to be focused on that all important big life question. The show returns three years after that dockside conversation; Patty is balancing more than just her career, she is in therapy, looking after her granddaughter and still going after the big companies. It is Ellen who looks to be solely work focused and wants a big case that will make her name known. It is this ambitious drive that leads her to begin an investigation into the work of the private military company High Star, who are up for renewal by the US government.
The head of the company is Howard Erickson (John Goodman) who is arrogant and believes that his practices in Afghanistan, whilst they might not seem moral or ethical are for the greater good. John Goodman looks set to play another top notch antagonist in the world Damages, joining esteemed company such as Ted Danson, Willaim Hurt and Martin Short (all who have scored Emmy nominations for their appearance on this show).
Ellen uses a personal connection to try and get more dirt on High Star as her friend Chris Sanchez (Chris Messina) is a former soldier and High Star employee. Sanchez is suffering from PTSD after a High Star mission didn't go according to plan, one that left him as the only survivor of his team. Will Ellen exploit her friend who is already suffering?
Also involved in this complex web is Jerry Boorman (Dylan Baker), an associate of Erickson's who will do anything to fix a mess and keep the money coming in. This includes all manners of scheming, torture and murder. Will Boorman be involved in the opening act of violence that will frame this season?
The format of the show remains the same; showing a horrific act then flashing back to see what actions lead to these awful consequences, so be prepared for the usual amount of suspense and intrigue that this structure provides. This formula was best used in season 1 when it was fresh, but hopefully whatever story they are telling this year will seem less contrived in their connections between the past and present.
One thing to expect from this new season is some saltier language, particularly from the military characters. Executive producers Glenn and Todd A. Kessler and Daniel Zelman spoke to TV Guide about this change in censorship and language:
"For us, it doesn't make sense for them [Patty and Ellen] to start using words they've never used before. We feel that would be jarring. The new characters, however... This year we're in the world of the military, and so there's a lot of testosterone on that side of the equation. They can throw their curse words around at will."
The relationship between Ellen and Patty will still be as complex as ever; Patty did try and have Ellen killed after all. So why does Ellen remain on speaking terms with Patty? Executive producer David Zelman explains this, saying:
"Ellen feels like Patty owes her something. Ellen believes that staying close to Patty is something ultimately she can use to her own end, for her own ambition."
The dynamic between these two characters and actresses is one of the elements that makes Damages such an intriguing and critically acclaimed show and the power balance shift between the two women is something that I am looking forward to seeing.
For a glimpse of what this season will entail check out the promo below. Also featured below is an interview with Rose Byrne, who discusses Ellen's season 4 story whilst rocking some new bangs.
There are sure to be twists and turns as Damages returns tonight at 10 P.M. on DirectTV, will you be watching?
They use physical evidence gathered from the scene of the crime in the most unusual ways, to solve sometimes brutal murders, and almost always in a dramatic manner.   ;http://bit.ly/mQZBiV