Ally McBeal (TV series)
"Ally McBeal" is a television series created by David E. Kelley that aired from 1997 to 2002. This unique blend of drama and comedy, often referred to as a "dramedy," is set in a Boston law firm and follows the life of Ally McBeal, portrayed by Calista Flockhart, a Generation X attorney grappling with the complexities of modern womanhood. The show features a diverse ensemble cast and explores themes such as workplace relationships, personal struggles, and the impact of feminism, particularly through the lens of Ally’s experiences.
Ally is depicted as a successful lawyer who navigates her career while facing personal dilemmas, challenging the notion that women can "have it all." The series is notable for its surreal elements, such as the introduction of whimsical characters like "dancing babies," and its commentary on feminist ideals, depicting characters who are both empowered and emotionally vulnerable. The portrayal of women in the series reflects the evolving landscape of feminism, highlighting both successes and the emotional conflicts that accompany them.
Critics have pointed out various aspects of the show, including concerns about its representation of body image and the complexities of professional life, yet it remains popular for its humor, relatable characters, and stylish aesthetics. "Ally McBeal" resonated particularly with young professionals, especially women, who admired Ally's wit, wardrobe, and independence, even as they reflected on the challenges she faced in her pursuit of happiness.
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Subject Terms
Ally McBeal (TV series)
Identification Dramatic comedy television series
Creator David E. Kelley (1956- )
Date Aired from September 8, 1997, to May 20, 2002
This ensemble comedy-drama caught the attention of a professional, age thirty-plus audience. With its eccentric characters, mix of fantasy and reality, romance, courtroom drama, and office silliness, the show became part of viewers’ Monday night schedules.
Ally McBeal was the creation of David E. Kelley, writer of hit shows Chicago Hope, Picket Fences, and The Practice. Like these other shows, this hour-long mix of drama and comedy (dubbed a “dramedy”) had an ensemble cast. Set in the Boston law office of Cage and Fish, the story lines focus on the lawyers and their relationships as well as issues common to the contemporary workplace. Courtroom scenes show the principals in action. The title character, a Generation X attorney, played by Calista Flockhart, became the poster child for postfeminist angst. The series features a woman who bested her longtime boyfriend at Harvard Law by making the Review (while he did not), who is the victim of sexual harassment in the workplace and makes sure the offender is punished, and who makes good money and wears nice clothes. However, Ally finds that she cannot not have it all—a contradiction of feminist doctrine, which told women they could. She appears in control and confident on the outside but sees herself as a little girl in a big chair rather than an equal among her peers. The show drew viewers into her fantasy world, enabling them to see her innermost thoughts and desires.
In June, 1998, Ally made the cover of Time magazine with the headline “Is Feminism Dead?” The answer was no; it had changed. Characters in the show representing feminist success, such as Ling, played by Lucy Liu (cold and power-hungry), are “scary” but comic. The one woman who appears to have it all—a great job and a handsome, smart husband—discovers that her husband is in love with another woman. Former concerns of the feminist movement, such as equality in the workplace, are in the past; the women in Ally McBeal are successful but often torn between their professional and personal lives. Ally supports women’s rights, but not at the expense of her emotional life.
Critics of the show were not impressed by the “dancing babies,” representing Ally’s biological clock, nor did they like her sexy demeanor, with her pouting lips and extremely short skirts. Some were disturbed that the very thin Flockhart might be anorexic and, therefore, a terrible role model for young women watching the show. However, the show was fun. The cast included Elaine, a secretary, played by Jane Krakowski, inventor of the face bra, and John Cage, a partner in the firm, played by Peter MacNicol, whose courtroom antics and fondness for his pet frog balanced the mostly serious courtroom scenes.
Impact
From the first episode, Ally McBeal caught the attention of young, professional people, women in particular. With her quick wit, vulnerability, and yearning for romance, Ally was someone to admire. Audiences did not want to be like her emotionally, but they did aspire to her wardrobe and her income.
Bibliography
Jefferson, Margo. “You Want to Slap Ally McBeal, But Do You Like Her?” The New York Times, March 18, 1998, p. E2.
Start, Steven D. “Lady’s Night.” The New Republic , December 29, 1997, 13-14.