Nobody better talk trash about "Family." I am dead serious, you will regret it.This is the most beautiful episode ever, in all senses of the word. Amber, ever gorgeous, is startlingly so. Kudos to hair, makeup, and lighting people. I could stare at that woman for all eternity. And of course, her performance was perfectly nuanced throughout.
The resolution of the "Tara's mystery" subplot was brilliant. I don't believe any other outcome would have worked.
And the ending...the floating dance...simply one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. I cried for a week the first time I saw this ep, because it was so beautiful I couldn't stand it. I still cry every time I see it.
Unfortunately FX made some unforgiveable cuts. When Mr. Maclay tells Willow that it's none of her business, Willow's sharp "I know that!" says so much. And then she turns back to Tara and is instantly so tender again. It's a wonderful moment, and such great acting by Aly. And then, duh! When Mr. Maclay is leaving the shop, they cut his disgusted "Magick." You have to have that because it contrasts with Willow's saying it during the dance.
Not as vital but nonetheless one of my favorite parts--when Tara and her dad are talking in her room, and he asks her if her friends know about her, they cut the part where she goes, "Y-yes"--with this look on her face that's like mixed fear and defiance--and you're like, oh crud she stuttered, she's totally busted, and then her dad says "Are you lying to me?"
Editing sucks.
