"Rectify" - review

 

A long night’s journey into day

Fans of “Deadwood” will recognize the name of Ray McKinnon as the actor who played Reverend Smith, the incredibly decent and humble pastor who was tragically broken by the horrors of the Civil War.  When I discovered that McKinnon was the creator and producer of “Rectify”, that was all I needed to know to give the show a try, and as the episodes unfolded it quickly became clear that there are many similarities between McKinnon’s Reverend Smith and the lead character of this series.

Aden Young plays Daniel Holden, who was sent to Death Row at the age of 18 for allegedly raping and murdering his teenaged girlfriend.  Nearly two decades later, new DNA evidence releases Daniel from prison and he returns home to his family.  However, the years that Daniel spent in isolation have taken their toll on his gentle spirit, and the primary question of the show is whether Daniel will be able function on the outside or if the trauma of his incarceration has permanently ruined his chances for a second life.

The cast of “Rectify” is ample, but since the show has four seasons, every character is very distinct.  Their arcs are subtle, deeply inspiring and several of them also contain delightful surprises.  Most crucially, no character is extraneous.  Every actor is given moments to shine, and while much of the drama does delve into the trauma of abuse and neglect with an unflinching gaze, there are glorious and intimate scenes of tenderness, grace and connection.  Light still shines even in the deepest shadows.

Aside from the superlative writing and acting, “Rectify” also does an extraordinary job of playing against initial expectations in the most delightful way.  Far too many TV shows will have their characters make maddeningly arbitrary decisions that contradict their previous behavior.  “Rectify” wisely does the opposite.  Instead of a slapdash execution of annoying and confounding red herrings, the characters actively work to grow beyond their shortcomings and become even more admirable than they were before.

Eventually you fall in love with almost everyone, and I’ve never wept with so much joy over seeing so many beautiful people struggle with so much grief, anger and frustration and yet still treat each other with dignity, respect and love.  Witnessing all these wonderful and varied souls continue to support and encourage each other was inspiring in a way that challenges my every attempt to choose the proper words.  Still, there is the nagging worry that perhaps this beloved family won't make it.

Thankfully, the last episode is one of the most emotionally transcendent viewing experiences I have ever had.  I completely broke down.  As the credits rolled, so too did more tears of blessedness roll down my cheeks at the serenity that was finally achieved.  It was almost as if I had been released from prison!  After having spent so much time with this family and my heart continually breaking for their ongoing suffering and doubt, the ending was one of the most beatific moments of deliverance from darkness that I have been privileged to witness.

It is a long, dark road to get there, but it is SO worth it.