For eight seasons, David E. Kelley's hit legal drama 'The Practice' captivated audiences with its over-the-top cases, morally ambiguous characters, and shocking plot twists. From 1997 to 2004, the show followed the lives of a group of lawyers working at the fictional law firm Donnell, Young, Dole, & Frutt (later shortened to Young, Frutt and Berluti) as they navigated Boston's unpredictable justice system.
With a talented ensemble cast, including Dylan McDermott, Camryn Manheim, and Lara Flynn Boyle, 'The Practice' became known for its unique blend of courtroom drama, witty banter, and intense character development. However, it was the show's wild and often absurd cases that truly set it apart from other law dramas of the time.
One of the most memorable cases featured a client who genuinely believed he was Superman. Yes, you read that right - Superman. The client, convinced that he possessed superhuman abilities, would often attempt to 'fly' from rooftops and 'save the world' from certain doom. His lawyers, of course, were tasked with proving that their client's delusional thinking was a mental health disorder rather than a creative expression.
Another bizarre case involved a client who fancied himself the reincarnation of notorious serial killer Hannibal Lecter. This charming sociopath would often taunt his lawyers, claiming to be an expert in human psychology and manipulation. As the trial progressed, it became increasingly clear that the client was far more calculating and sinister than his lawyers had initially suspected.
A third case that demonstrated the show's commitment to weirdness was a client suffering from 'monkey complex.' This client, convinced that he was the reincarnation of a 19th-century primate, insisted on acting out his thoughts in court. He'd jump around on his feet, screeching like a monkey and making a scene. Unsurprisingly, his lawyers struggled to keep him composed and in business attire.
While these cases might seem laughable, 'The Practice' always struck a delicate balance between levity and poignancy. Its storylines were often socially charged, dealing with topical issues like racism, homophobia, and mental health stigmatization. At the heart of it all was a talented ensemble cast that never shied away from the madness that often accompanied the law.
And, for its devoted fan base, that was precisely the appeal of 'The Practice' - it never knew how to be normal. The show's capacity to surprise, offend, and astound still makes it a beloved cult classic. And who wouldn't want to binge-watch their favorite episodes, featuring the wackiest clients on television today?