Big Love (2006–2011): Season 5, Episode 4 - The Oath - full transcript
With his swearing-in ceremony only days away, Bill searches for ways to overcome the anti-polygamist sentiment swelling among state officials. Meanwhile, Barbʼs strategic attendance at...
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Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.
Now you won't be
sworn in till Friday,
but you already know how to
come out swinging, Bill.
You've been making the
rounds the past few days.
Yeah, here I am again
wearing out my welcome.
So what's this all about then?
I want the public to hear
this from me first.
This proposed Bill
targets me alone,
redefining polygamy
as a second-class felony,
and I just think that's
unfair and un-American.
Are you saying there's
a lynch mob after you?
Yes, they're after my head,
and I'm not even seated
for four days.
Call representative midge Buckley's
office or senator barn's.
I assume they'll want
to admit it.
I gather they're proud
of what they're doing.
Les, can we get barn's number?
Gee, I wonder
why they want your scalp so bad.
You're a fun guy.
Our switchboards just
light up when you're on.
Look, I know my election
caused a stir,
but representative Buckley l
pressure.
It's unfortunate.
I just think that no matter
what your political stripes,
the Utah I love
values fair play.
I can't listen.
It kills me... Bill pleading
our case all week.
These functions
every night don't help.
And my arches are killing me.
Bill says it's important
that we stay out there,
put a positive face
on polygamy.
I saw an invite to an event on
Thursday in your mail, Barb.
Oh, what's it for?
Oh, it's some thrift show
fashion thing.
I told Bill we'd had enough of
these wives-on-parade evenings.
I said I'd do it, but you
certainly don't have to go.
But that sounds fun.
I bet we'd have a blast.
Fashion?
Honestly, Margene.
This baking soda's stale.
Oh, I have a box in my house.
I have an extra in my pantry.
Well, I think it still
sounds like fun.
You know, actually
I'm taking my sister.
Cindy hasn't spoken to me
since the election,
bruised feelings and all.
I offered this as an olive
branch and she accepted.
So you two definitely stay at
home and hold down the fort.
I don't mind.
I'm fine.
Can you see the sell-by
on this, Margie?
It's February 17th.
Still good.
Thank you, Barb,
for trying to include me
in the cleaning out
of the deep freezer.
There's an envelope
upstairs in my bag.
It's your new birth certificate.
You're five years older.
So don't say I never did
anything for you.
You owe me $240.
And don't let anyone
hold it up to an infrared.
It's over, Nicki.
We agreed we're moving on.
I don't want to revisit
this matter.
So find the resources
to stay on the high road.
The seminar was
at the red lion.
And they gave me all of these sales
strategies to tell you about.
Did you know how much
Goji is tied
to the book of mormon
and the Bible?
The whole board of directors
are all returned missionaries.
Aren't they hunks?
I had to get that calendar.
They come back
from those missions
so big and juicy
and full of themselves.
And they talked
about this whole
Christian-based
values goal to business
that I never thought about.
Michael Sainte says,
"you can't make money
unless you help
others prosper too.
"Do well
by doing good."
I can't stop
thinking about that.
It's so simple. I mean, it's
really just "do unto others."
And "he will know you
by your deeds."
There's a reason
this multilevel marketing
movement is so successful here.
We understand that.
It's our culture.
It's why we're such
a successful people.
I always thought it was just
because we were hard workers.
But it's also because
we're righteous...
not righteous superior,
but righteous in our
dedication to the gospel.
Mm, I just never
thought of myself
as a person of faith before...
I mean, to have it all
connect like this.
I'd watch those Sunday morning
religious shows and think,
"you gotta be kidding me."
And now I don't know anymore.
Dinner in an hour.
Your mother's in bed.
Her doctor called for you.
I'll get with her
in the morning.
I hope to high heaven this
is the last round of tests.
Let me give you a hand.
I thought you were
really strong
in the Ricky Jax interview.
Thanks.
"The Trib"'s running that big
article on midge's Bill tomorrow.
It'll hit hard.
Four days and counting.
Oh, there's another
wives' event on Thursday.
- Where?
- This one's at the expo center.
Is it that pancake thing?
No, it's the first lady's
fashion show.
Cindy's on the committee.
She helped put it together.
I think it would be good for me
to make an appearance there.
Oh, you guys should definitely go.
It's really important
all of you to be seen together
these few days before I'm seated.
After that we can relax.
Well, I agree,
but Nicki and Margie
really don't want to go.
They're just played out.
And Nicki's feet hurt
and Margene fidgets.
So I told them to stay home,
rest up for your swearing in
the next day,
and I can fly the flag
on my own.
You're always willing
to go the extra mile.
Do you know what this is?
Margie's promotional
t-shirt.
She gave this to Cara Lynn.
That's unacceptable.
Oh, for heaven's sakes.
I thought we were over this.
The t-shirt
set her off.
Because they're skimpy
and childlike
and completely inappropriate
under the circumstances.
And you two need to finally
talk about this seriously.
She came into our marriage
under utterly false pretenses.
We've dealt with it, Nicki.
It happened in the past.
It's no one's fault.
We just didn't know. It's over.
We?
We didn't know?
She hid it so well.
How could we have?
Okay, let's move on
to the MacLaurin series.
What's the MacLaurin series
for e to the x?
MacLaurin series
for e to the x?
You know, most schools
bring in a grief counselor
when a student experiences
a death in the family.
Did someone die?
My father.
I'm so sorry.
I had no idea.
My brothers and my sisters
won't talk to me now.
And I called one of my cousins
that I was close to,
and that helped.
He lives in Las Vegas.
We talked for, like,
three hours.
It's hard because
I'm not supposed to like
any of my old family now
because my mom hates them.
It puts you in a tough spot.
You know...
My older brother died
when I was 14
and it was months
before I felt a thing
and years before
my family moved on.
I still miss him.
If you need to talk to someone,
I'm available.
Thanks.
I've been learning
a lot lately.
Business alone isn't enough.
Business and furtherance of
the spirit is the point.
I think I was just too young
to understand that before.
Mr. Ivey called.
He's worried about Cara Lynn.
Makes sense.
She's at Gary's again for dinner.
She's lost
in her own world.
He said we might want her to see
a counselor about j.J.'S death.
We don't want to talk about
this over dinner, do we?
With little ears?
No, but it got me thinking
what would happen to Cara Lynn
if something happens to me?
Nothing's gonna happen to you.
That's what everyone says.
But there are hit-and-runs,
construction accidents,
criminals breaking in.
I could fall down the stairs and
hit my head against the wall.
Technically she'd be an orphan.
Salt, please.
I think we need
to adopt her legally.
Nicki, she just found out
her father died.
That's the point.
Without a legal adoption,
she'll go to some Walker
at a compound...
can you imagine?
... Or be a ward of the state.
Maybe it's just a little
insensitive to Cara Lynn
for us to suddenly come
swooping down on her.
I totally get it.
I know what it's like
to be 15 and be miserable
and desperate
and without a father.
I would have done anything
to get adopted by anyone.
Oh, people.
This is an important topic
deserving a lot of time
and consideration.
A topic that ought to have been
discussed in private first.
She's a girl
moving through this world
without a father
or a priesthood holder,
which makes her
a spiritual orphan already.
That's enough.
Barb's right.
If we ever make it through this
week alive, we'll revisit it then.
Say, I understand
things are still rough
between you and Nicki.
Oh, they're not so bad.
Try and give her a break.
You can't blame her
if she's sensitive
about this subject now.
Your being 16 matters
a great deal to her.
Does it to you?
Well, between you and me
and my feelings for you, no.
I've noticed
things have changed.
You don't look at me
when we're having sex.
That's not true.
Yeah, it is.
You're not looking at me now.
Sweetheart, we're fine.
This is mine?
Yes, sir.
Are these the original desks
from the territorial days?
No,
but everything in here has
historical significance.
So give me the drill
for Friday.
Your swearing in
is at 4:00.
Your schedule...
always on your computer.
And you'll have a small copy to
tuck into your lapel pocket.
You're gonna be
a great intern, Stuart.
I really enjoy working with young people.
It's important.
This is almost really real.
Your password is
"bettylou."
Where are you doing your
undergraduate, Stuart?
B.Y.U....
poli sci.
B.Y.U.?
And you're comfortable
working for me?
I'm still thinking it over,
Mr. Henrickson.
He wouldn't even look at me.
Whenever I asked him something,
he answered you.
He's just trying to make
a good impression on me.
By ignoring me
and only speaking
to my priesthood holder.
You're being
a little sensitive.
I'm being a little right.
I see you brought
Barb up here today.
This is a big deal
for all of us.
Taking the oath of office
is a big deal
and a solemn occasion.
What are you packin'?
.38, Smith & Wesson.
May I?
Nice heft.
- Feels good.
- Uh-huh.
- How hot?
- 147 grain.
Hmm.
So what happened?
I thought we were pals now.
Still are as far as I know.
Well, I don't appreciate
being drug into a spotlight
not of my own making.
You want a list of the
things I don't appreciate?
Don't reference me
in public again.
If you continue
your little press tour,
it'd be a big mistake
to try to pressure me
by naming me
and singling me out.
You and midge Buckley... it's
fine for you to vilify me,
but if I fight back,
I'm out of line?
Take your pick.
I can be out there yappin'
away, drawing attention
to things you don't want
attention drawn to,
or you can invite me
into the tent.
Bill, the house
ethics committee
is poised to impeach you
the second you're sworn in.
I'll fight it.
I'll go to the senate for trial
and tie up this statehouse in
knots for the entire session.
It'll be a short trial.
The train has left the station.
It's coming straight at you.
Representative Buckley now has
14 cosponsors to her Bill.
I've faced tougher odds.
Mama?
Shame on you.
What do you think you're doing?
Intimidating anyone
who might be brave enough
to seek help from the state
is what she's been doing.
- Oh, he's a big old liar.
- What are you doing with the camera?
She's taking pictures
of anyone who walks by,
deliberately undermining the
collaborative spirit of safety net.
I am over 10' away
from the entrance.
That's what's in the agreement.
Mama, the state is not
the enemy, not anymore.
We have an interest to ensure
that the state
doesn't twist things,
plant false memories.
You know how hard early marriage
is, how vulnerable we are.
Back off.
We're not talking
fun and games anymore.
I volunteered for the task of
monitoring compliance on safety net.
Mama is harassing anyone
who steps forward.
- Get her out of there.
- We are in perfect compliance.
Don't give me your garbage.
I know better than that.
I know how subtle intimidation works.
I was a victim too.
You were no victim.
You were a lamb
in a pastel frock
skipping merrily off
to the slaughter...
I mean, altar.
- Because I was brainwashed.
- Oh, I hate that term.
You're evil.
I am evil?
You and your husband
took my family from me,
one of my wives,
my boys... my Thomas.
And you've taken mama...
a poor vulnerable woman
who's given her misguided
life to the cause.
You will fully cooperate.
You'll get nothing from me
but enmity.
I will repay what you've done
to me in spades,
and you and your husband will
never know what hit you.
Mama, I understand why
you came back here,
but I can't understand
why you're doing this to us.
- Well, thank you.
- Yes, thank you.
I'm Barbara Henrickson.
I'm here to pick up my outfits.
Oh, hello.
While I sign you in,
you can go get your hangers from the rack.
It's alphabetized.
Well, hello.
I'd like to say that this
was a complete surprise,
but I saw
your r.S.V.P.
I didn't think
you'd have the nerve.
All right, let's just please
please be nice to each other.
- This is for charity, you know.
- I'm aware of that.
Well, you'll spoil it,
swooping down
with your sisterwives,
making a spectacle
of yourselves.
I mean, I understand
the humiliation
that you felt at that mother of
the year ceremony, but still...
well, this has nothing
to do with that.
And f.Y.I.,
I'm coming alone...
no sisterwives, no spectacle.
And do you even know
what this charity is for?
It's cancer or m.S.
It's for the salt lake city
interfaith council.
So is this about you
and your new priesthood
theories that mommy mentioned?
It's about reaching out
and getting polygamy
a place at that table.
If there's a working dialogue
with catholics and protestants
and muslims and sikhs,
then... then why not us?
Well, because they're not
neanderthal, abusive cults, okay?
Maybe polygamy can change.
Maybe women can be
more empowered.
So this is about you and
your priesthood theories,
which mommy says you haven't
even mentioned to Bill.
I guess that explains
all your secrecy.
Just please
don't bring it up.
I just...
I don't want you
to embarrass yourself
or me, okay?
Needs resoling.
Needs half soles.
Bill is so hard on his heels.
Wayne needs new arch supports.
Greg lvey called.
You know you can talk with us.
I know.
When my father died,
it shook me to the core.
So I know a little bit about
what you're going through.
And I know
how confusing it can be
adjusting to things here.
All our lives
it was beat into us
that living out in the
world was satanic.
Everyone has been nice to me.
They're bending over
backwards for me.
You make it sound as if
we're merely being polite.
We care for you deeply.
We love you.
Don't you feel that?
I do.
That's what I meant.
Sweetheart,
Bill wants to adopt you
formally and officially.
We all do.
Why?
For legal reasons,
for spiritual reasons
and practical.
That's fine.
Just fine?
I was hoping for more than fine.
I was hoping for great.
But, mom, I cannot
just completely
lose dad, not yet.
I understand.
I do.
Mom?
Mom, are you
listening to me?
Mom.
Mom, mom,
are you listening?
Remember I took you
to the doctor
a few weeks ago, and then
we had those tests?
Is there something
wrong with me?
Is it bad?
Yes.
Don't keep me hanging here,
torturing me.
Well, say it.
It's dementia.
I believe I'd like
a second opinion.
If you want to talk
to the doctor yourself...
what does she know?
It showed up
on your brain scan.
This doesn't run in our family.
I know.
So it gets worse until what?
There are services
and support groups
that can help,
reality orientations.
Thank you.
Bill, we've got to tell Frank.
He needs to know.
No, he doesn't.
Do you know what
the final test showed?
You know what she has that causes
dementia if it goes untreated?
Herpes.
A venereal disease.
I know what that is, but...
dad gave it to her years ago.
She probably doesn't
have any symptoms,
probably doesn't even
know she has it.
I really need you to get over
this whole 16 thing, Nicki.
Nothing feels right anymore.
I got you your new birth certificate.
I can't fix everything.
It all feels so crazy.
It's like Bill can't even
love me in the same way.
Sorry, Margie.
I really wish I could help.
I wish I could
make it all go away.
Why are you so upset with me?
I'm not you.
I knew what I wanted.
At 16?
No one really knows.
I did.
I wanted out any way I could.
You were too young
to make that choice.
No, I wasn't.
I'm sorry your sex life
with Bill is so difficult.
And I'm sorry your early
sex life was so rough.
I don't want to talk about
my sex life with you...
not my current sex life,
not my early sex life.
And here's the huge reason...
I was a victim of that system,
and you were a perpetrator.
Why does everyone have to be
either a perpetrator or a victim?
Why can't it be that
Bill and I were in love?
Your abuse is not
my abuse, Nicki.
I was a normal person.
So you really really
need to get off my back.
This is the last time
I'm gonna say it.
My dad didn't know, period.
He didn't do anything wrong.
What do I know?
My dad's building a bunker
in the backyard.
A bunker?
Against the bad guys.
Ben, the movie starts
in 15 minutes.
What if he's not coming?
Or what if he's lost?
Then he'll call.
Mr. Ivey?
Cara Lynn, hi.
Hi.
Mom, dad, this my student,
Cara Lynn Walker.
You're the math star Greg's
talked so much about.
He talked about me?
I think I mentioned you
once or twice.
Oh, she's the girl
who won the competition.
Hi, Mr. Ivey.
Heather? Hi.
Well, it was nice seeing you.
Um, have a good night.
You're being tutored
by Mr. Ivey?
He's kind of short.
- Cara Lynn?
- Verlan.
Look at you.
Look at you.
Look at you.
You're not compound anymore.
My papa's dead.
He's dead.
It's okay.
It's okay.
It's okay.
Okay?
- Okay.
- All right.
Hey.
Rhonda?
You guys know each other?
Hey, honey, don't be shy.
I told you I got
hitched, right?
Finally we've got our full
profit participation back.
And what I want now is our
management contract back.
I'd be willing to split my time
between here and the stores
while you're
in the senate 24/7.
I appreciate that.
This place has to offset
any home plus losses.
Speaking of losses,
peg just bought
1200 bucks' worth of that
sour juice from Marge.
I can't afford that right now.
Maybe you can ask Marge
to back off for me.
I don't think I can ask Marge
to do anything right now.
I just found out
she was 16 when we married.
I'm not joking.
You just found out?
- What is your problem, Bill?
- Whoa, buddy.
- That's just plain stupid.
- I don't need a lecture.
You should have known.
Something like this gets out...
there goes everything.
It's good night, Irene.
You think I'm happy about this?
People who do what I did should be locked up.
I believe that.
I don't believe in underage sex and
saying these are the times we live in.
I can't even look Barb
in the eye.
I don't know how to square it.
I'm not Roman grant.
The guns of the world are
trained on you right now.
And all our fates hang on whether you
sink or swim, and you tell me this?
You're not listening to me.
I didn't know.
Oh, you didn't?
I remember.
You were determined
to have her.
Didn't matter that she was
outside the faith.
You were obsessed with her, and
it wasn't for her intellect.
So just what was
all that about, Bill?
Just please ask my family
to talk to me.
I'll try, but they hate me too.
Well, at least come to my
house for dinner tomorrow.
Oh, we can't.
We got some junk we gotta do.
Please. I'll talk to Nicki,
and you can meet everybody.
I really wish we could, but...
we'll be back soon.
Okay?
I'm glad you guys
found each other.
I'm sorry
for the things I've said
about you, Heather,
about having
unnatural attractions.
I wasn't always truthful
in the past.
Really?
Hold Jessica.
Hi.
Verlan changed my life.
He got me off the streets.
I was in all sorts of trouble,
but his love saved me.
He brought the sunshine
back into my life.
I have to ask...
whose baby is it?
Mine.
And Verlan's.
You know, that was
really mean, Ben.
And just so you know,
we don't believe
in the principle anymore.
I'll get a refill.
Hey.
How are you doing on cash?
I...
I left my wallet at the pump
a couple of gas stations ago.
I had to cancel
all my credit cards.
Here, I've got like...
like $18.
Wow, that's...
thanks,
- really.
- Sure.
It's so good to see you.
Come here.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
Well, come on.
I'm almost ready.
There's juice on the counter.
- Mom, I'm tired.
- Honey, shh.
What's going on?
I've commandeered
your house, Barb,
for our first
family home evening.
It's 6:00
in the morning.
It seems to be
the only time we have.
I've downloaded
a lot materials,
but we'll go slow
because I'm a novice too.
We'll start by sharing
stories of faith.
Then we'll have a reading
from the book of mormon
about forgiveness
and moving on.
This is impossible.
I've got meetings all day.
I'm trying to choke off midge's Bill.
This is ridiculous.
Nicki, this is a way
we can all move forward
together as a family, spiritually reaffirmed.
So get on the bus.
Are we supposed to be sleep-deprived
because you feel guilty about lying to us?
That's
Stuart with my schedule.
If you don't want to
participate, you don't have to.
But for five years you've been upset with
me because I haven't been with the program,
and now I am.
So I thought you'd be happy.
Nicki, you're staying.
We're gonna sit down
- for a little Bible instruction
led by Margene. - Hi, Stuart.
He's busy at the moment.
You can give me the message.
No, Stuart.
Give me the message.
All right, Stuart, give me...
Stuart.
What do you mean, the
meeting's been changed? 3:00?
Let's just call this what it
is... an attempt to atone.
But atonement without taking
responsibility is meaningless.
U take no responsibility
for what you did.
- I take complete responsibility.
- Not morally.
Morally, you think it's just fine.
You've said as much.
I've been reading a book of
Bill's on Joseph Smith and Emma.
He had 34 wives, and four of
them were between 14 and 15.
Hold on.
My appointment book's upstairs.
- It's true, Nicki.
- I'm sure all of those girls
had lost their families
and he took them in.
Hello.
Same here.
I mean, that's all I'm saying.
They were his wife Emma's
maids and nannies, like me.
But he coerced some of them.
Bill never coerced me.
Well, aren't we all glad
to hear that?
What we have is good.
It's always been good.
Why are we so ashamed
of everything now?
Because you were 16 years old,
and you were in bed
with my husband.
Thanks for sticking it out
with Marge.
I got my meeting
with the Attorney General.
Oh, and there's some
new pills in the cupboard
for mom for me
off-label benefit.
I saw two cans of peaches
in her room.
She's using them as dumbbells,
trying to stay fit.
When I think of what
Frank has done to her...
she had no say,
none whatsoever.
What did he do to me?
What was done to me?
Dad gave you a disease?
Years ago.
What kind of disease?
It's from sexual
relations, Lois.
V.D.?
Frank gave me v.D.?
I don't believe it.
It's impossible.
It's true.
Then give me a shot.
Fix it.
It's too late.
Kind of like getting ready for the
first day of school, isn't it?
- Jeff, thanks for coming to see me.
- Oh, sure.
I gotta say, school was
a little easier than this.
They're not exactly sending the
welcome wagon for you, are they?
Not exactly.
I wanted to ask.
Midge Buckley's Bill...
have you reviewed
the copy I sent you?
Yeah, I did.
Where do you stand?
The Bill's a real stink bomb.
If it passes,
I lose all discretion
over enforcement of
the anti-polygamy statute.
Citizens can sue me
if I don't prosecute.
I'd have to come after you, Bill, and
tens of thousands just like you.
Jeff, you're the a.G.
You could take it to court,
declare it unconstitutional.
Well, a year ago
I could have tried,
but not now.
Seems we are entering a new era
of zero tolerance.
Jeff, I'm gonna be sitting
on appropriations.
You're gonna want
your budget passed.
With one rider, I can
stop that from happening.
Are... are you saying
what I think you're saying?
Thanks for your time, Jeff.
- Lois?
- Hmm.
It's all been such a waste.
It's been a waste.
Lois, come inside.
It's freezing out.
I'm filthy.
What are you talking about?
Just...
Come on.
Let's get you inside.
I've got no good shoes.
It's okay.
It's okay.
What is it?
I just want to say I know
how messed up my family is.
So thanks for being so cool
and not judging them or me.
You're not messed up.
You're fine
mostly.
Yes, I know who you are.
And I certainly remember
who you used to be.
I don't care
what you think of me.
We want $50,000
as compensation for the pain,
suffering and displacement
caused to my wife
intentionally by your father.
You're just a couple
of callow gold-diggers...
you, little weasel, Walker scum
come crawling back to the compound;
And you, you wanton
little grifter.
Watch your mouth when you
talk to my wife or I'll...
or you'll what?
After what old Roman did to me,
i was so confused
I couldn't even waitress.
I had to dance.
I had to go to special parties
and dance for strangers.
This is the most pathetic
shakedown I can imagine.
We're prepared to sue.
My wife was an innocent child.
Rhonda's willing to go
in front of a jury
and tell them everything
your father did to her.
And no one will care.
You have no case.
Get out.
Who do you think
you're dealing with here?
I'm Albert grant.
That old man ruined me,
but verlan loves me anyway.
Thank you.
I want you to know
I called Lee.
I set up a time next week to sit down
and talk about Cara Lynn's adoption.
Bill.
But I need you to do
something for me.
Cut Marge some slack.
Be a little sensitive.
Stop provoking her.
Everybody's moved on
except you.
Try and be a bit more like Barb
and rise above it.
Hardly.
What does that mean?
It so happens Barb blames
you for this whole mess...
you and your animal urges.
She's humiliated by you.
I don't believe that.
I don't like the acrimony
any more than you do.
But the way she sees it,
you seduced Marge.
She implied moral debauchery.
Debauchery?
Barb said that?
- In so many words.
- Or is that what you think?
- Not anymore.
- You used to?
Bill...
Heavenly father gave men urges
and strong needs
to go do their business.
Margene was about me
doing my business?
Oh, it's not your fault.
That's how you're made.
And I said I used to think that.
Barb's the one ashamed now.
- Where is she?
- That fashion show with Cindy.
She deliberately didn't invite her
sisterwives, so she could invite her sister.
She told me you and Marge
were too worn out to go.
It's not true.
I desperately wanted to go.
She's lying
her boots off, Bill.
She'd rather lie than be honest
and admit that she's
ashamed of me and Margene
and you and all your
animal urges.
Stop saying that.
We're not falling apart.
We're not splitting and fracturing,
not on the Eve of our great
triumph, no matter what.
We all
deal with this pressure
to be flawless spiritually
and physically,
to be worthy
of our husband's love.
But remember,
you are worthy.
Your husband wouldn't be with
you if you weren't worthy.
Your effort will bring
perfection.
Thank you.
Barbie, don't do it.
No, please.
Please.
Evelyn.
Mrs. linton.
Barbara Henrickson.
It's been a while since
we shared a public stage.
Are you all right?
I'm a little bit nervous.
I'm sorry.
A lot's happened since
we saw each other last.
I did not know
you two were sisters.
- Mm.
- Oh yeah.
I want to be a part of your
charity, your interfaith council.
As a representative
of your husband's church?
Well, his church is changing.
It's evolving.
We may not be catholics,
but we're one up
on the scientologists.
I mean according to
what I've read.
What are you
thinking of exactly?
We're going to be a church
that values women
and their relationship
with heavenly father.
Well, I would be interested
in talking to you
about this, Barbara...
very interested.
Excuse me.
Nicki, Margene,
I was just telling the first lady
how much we admire her work.
We do?
It's good to meet you,
Nicki, Margene.
Evelyn, why don't we
step back outside?
- I have a question I'd
like to ask you. - Right.
- What are you doing here?
- No, what are you doing here?
- I'm not the one tripped up in a web of lies.
- Please, Nicki.
Bill sent us.
He's furious you ditched us.
In defending you,
I had to tell him
what you lacked
the courage to say...
that you blamed him for
corrupting and seducing Margene.
- I never said I blamed him.
- You certainly implied it.
And I wasn't seduced
and corrupted.
I was... I was angry
at myself.
I... I share
in the responsibility.
I... I think I had an idea
about her age.
Hello.
I'm standing right here.
I didn't know for sure.
Maybe I chose not to know.
- Maybe I turned a blind eye.
- Why would you have done that?
Because I was desperate.
Over what?
I was so sad with you and Bill.
Our marriage...
I couldn't bear it.
I was lonely
and felt so excluded.
And Margie changed things.
She made me happy.
Barb, that's so sweet.
Let me get this straight.
I made you so unhappy
that I drove you
into the arms of Margene?
No, I am saying
at key moments in my life,
key moments in the history
of the family,
I've lacked the courage
of my convictions.
And you shouldn't be so
holier-than-thou, Nicki.
It's not like you didn't turn a complete
blind eye to your father's nastiness,
which you wouldn't know, the way
you've been squawking at me.
I pushed him down the stairs.
Don't you two gang up on me.
How many other men
did you throw yourself at
in your attempts to get
adopted, hmm, Margene?
Is that who you think I am...
a sex-starved babysitter
throwing myself at men?
Don't think I'm the only one.
Why do you think Bill can't look
at you when you're, you know...?
I mean, isn't it obvious?
He wonders how many other
men you threw yourself at,
how damaged are the goods.
Yes.
You, get in here.
Now.
I'll get back to you.
You tried to bribe the Attorney General?
I could have you arrested.
I did no such thing.
You're lying and
you're not even sworn in.
You're committing
impeachable offenses.
Our faith has been sustained
on prevarication and lying...
missionaries shading the
truth, church presidents
going on "Larry king," lying,
covering up embarrassing details.
- You are out of order!
- It's called lying for the lord,
and wee been doing it
for 150 years.
Do you think you're gonna accomplish
one thing if you're sworn in?
You want a Bill?
Forget it.
I'll see it never gets out of
committee, never gets to committee.
- You're a political eunuch.
- I just want to be allowed to do my job!
Bill.
Nicki told me
why you can't look at me.
Marge, go away.
Not now.
I never threw myself
at another man.
- Please don't think that.
- We'll talk about this at home.
I babysat for two other families
before you, but nothing happened.
What are you wearing?
Put a coat on.
I don't need a coat.
You do.
You look a teenybopper.
Bill, this isn't about me.
This is about you.
You've got to forgive yourself.
You have to change your
perception of what you see.
Look, change begins within.
Cover up, for crying out loud.
Everyone will see you.
And this just isn't the time
or the place, believe me.
- I feel absolutely fine.
- Well, then you probably are.
But you suffered a concussion and
passed out for over 30 minutes.
We really need to keep an eye
out for any complications.
I have to be at the
capitol by 4:00 tomorrow.
- He's getting sworn in.
- Shouldn't be a problem.
Settle in.
I'll check in on you later.
I can't believe
you ran him over.
- I tapped him. - Stop it.
It was an accident.
Please don't talk to me.
You hate me.
I don't want to talk
to someone who hates me.
I just said the polygamy thing
works better for me
if it's four of us, okay?
We are on the Eve of achieving
the greatest milestone
in the history of polygamy
in over 100 years.
Supposedly we weren't gonna have
to lie about who we were anymore.
But Marge has brought us
back to square one.
My head is killing me.
I'd like some quiet.
Go home, all of you,
please.
Hello, Bill.
Emma?
Emma Smith.
Yes, I am.
How is Sarah?
Such a tragedy...
her miscarriage.
Well, she's doing much better.
She's married now and living in Portland.
Thanks for asking.
I used to pray for the strength
God gave your husband Joseph.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
No 14-year-olds,
no 15-year olds.
No nurses or nannies,
not in my household,
never.
Now I pray for the strength
God gave to you.
The liars and the sinners
wrote those books.
There were no girls...
no underage girls, Bill.
Emma.
How many more Miles?
You be careful now.
Mom, that was Emma Smith.
Isn't this the loveliest time?
Where's Bill?
The nurse just took him
for a scan.
I... I just called
the senate.
That lousy intern
should have called.
They found out Bill's in the hospital
and moved up his swearing in to...
- to when?
- To now.
What?
You, nurse,
my husband's having
some sort of scan.
- Where would that be?
- I don't know.
It could be downstairs in the
basement or on the third floor,
over in radiology or...
or the university annex.
- Here, you wait here for Bill.
- Where are you going?
The capitol.
- Who are these monsters?
- Eagle forum eaglets.
Does your mother know
where you are, young lady?
She drove me here.
I'm sorry, ladies.
The senate's in session.
Do you have a pass?
We are here on behalf of
senator Henrickson.
Well, you have to be
a legislator
or have written pass
to be on the floor.
Well, what about interns?
They're...
they're allowed in.
Is there a problem, Zeb?
None.
You're fired.
I'm his intern,
and she's with me.
Madam, we are in session.
I understand,
Mr. president.
Do you have business
before this body?
I'm Barb Henrickson.
My husband Bill Henrickson
was supposed to be sworn in
at 4:00, but you moved it up.
And who are you?
I'm Margene he... Heffman,
Mr. president.
I am also
Mr. Henrickson's wife.
And what you have done to
our husband is not fair.
What exactly
is your purpose here?
All good mormons believe that one
day polygamy will come back.
It's an essential doctrine
of the fullness of the
restoration of the gospel.
I guess I'm just
showing up a little early.
You are aware
your oath asks you
to uphold the constitution
of this state,
and article III
of that constitution
bans polygamy?
Do you wish to proceed?
Our shared religious tradition
asks us to follow
a higher power.
Section 134 of our
doctrine and covenants:
"Religion is instituted of God,"
and human law has
no right to interfere
in proscribing
rules of worship
or to decide forums
"of public
or private devotion."
Persecuting me violates
your own scripture.
It makes hypocrites of you all
and traitors
to our history.
I am a proud mormon polygamist
elected by my district,
and I demand to be sworn in.
I, William Henrickson,
do solemnly swear
that I will support,
obey and defend
the constitution
of the United States
and the constitution
of this state,
and that I will discharge
the duties of my office
with fidelity, so help me God.
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.
---
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.
Now you won't be
sworn in till Friday,
but you already know how to
come out swinging, Bill.
You've been making the
rounds the past few days.
Yeah, here I am again
wearing out my welcome.
So what's this all about then?
I want the public to hear
this from me first.
This proposed Bill
targets me alone,
redefining polygamy
as a second-class felony,
and I just think that's
unfair and un-American.
Are you saying there's
a lynch mob after you?
Yes, they're after my head,
and I'm not even seated
for four days.
Call representative midge Buckley's
office or senator barn's.
I assume they'll want
to admit it.
I gather they're proud
of what they're doing.
Les, can we get barn's number?
Gee, I wonder
why they want your scalp so bad.
You're a fun guy.
Our switchboards just
light up when you're on.
Look, I know my election
caused a stir,
but representative Buckley l
pressure.
It's unfortunate.
I just think that no matter
what your political stripes,
the Utah I love
values fair play.
I can't listen.
It kills me... Bill pleading
our case all week.
These functions
every night don't help.
And my arches are killing me.
Bill says it's important
that we stay out there,
put a positive face
on polygamy.
I saw an invite to an event on
Thursday in your mail, Barb.
Oh, what's it for?
Oh, it's some thrift show
fashion thing.
I told Bill we'd had enough of
these wives-on-parade evenings.
I said I'd do it, but you
certainly don't have to go.
But that sounds fun.
I bet we'd have a blast.
Fashion?
Honestly, Margene.
This baking soda's stale.
Oh, I have a box in my house.
I have an extra in my pantry.
Well, I think it still
sounds like fun.
You know, actually
I'm taking my sister.
Cindy hasn't spoken to me
since the election,
bruised feelings and all.
I offered this as an olive
branch and she accepted.
So you two definitely stay at
home and hold down the fort.
I don't mind.
I'm fine.
Can you see the sell-by
on this, Margie?
It's February 17th.
Still good.
Thank you, Barb,
for trying to include me
in the cleaning out
of the deep freezer.
There's an envelope
upstairs in my bag.
It's your new birth certificate.
You're five years older.
So don't say I never did
anything for you.
You owe me $240.
And don't let anyone
hold it up to an infrared.
It's over, Nicki.
We agreed we're moving on.
I don't want to revisit
this matter.
So find the resources
to stay on the high road.
The seminar was
at the red lion.
And they gave me all of these sales
strategies to tell you about.
Did you know how much
Goji is tied
to the book of mormon
and the Bible?
The whole board of directors
are all returned missionaries.
Aren't they hunks?
I had to get that calendar.
They come back
from those missions
so big and juicy
and full of themselves.
And they talked
about this whole
Christian-based
values goal to business
that I never thought about.
Michael Sainte says,
"you can't make money
unless you help
others prosper too.
"Do well
by doing good."
I can't stop
thinking about that.
It's so simple. I mean, it's
really just "do unto others."
And "he will know you
by your deeds."
There's a reason
this multilevel marketing
movement is so successful here.
We understand that.
It's our culture.
It's why we're such
a successful people.
I always thought it was just
because we were hard workers.
But it's also because
we're righteous...
not righteous superior,
but righteous in our
dedication to the gospel.
Mm, I just never
thought of myself
as a person of faith before...
I mean, to have it all
connect like this.
I'd watch those Sunday morning
religious shows and think,
"you gotta be kidding me."
And now I don't know anymore.
Dinner in an hour.
Your mother's in bed.
Her doctor called for you.
I'll get with her
in the morning.
I hope to high heaven this
is the last round of tests.
Let me give you a hand.
I thought you were
really strong
in the Ricky Jax interview.
Thanks.
"The Trib"'s running that big
article on midge's Bill tomorrow.
It'll hit hard.
Four days and counting.
Oh, there's another
wives' event on Thursday.
- Where?
- This one's at the expo center.
Is it that pancake thing?
No, it's the first lady's
fashion show.
Cindy's on the committee.
She helped put it together.
I think it would be good for me
to make an appearance there.
Oh, you guys should definitely go.
It's really important
all of you to be seen together
these few days before I'm seated.
After that we can relax.
Well, I agree,
but Nicki and Margie
really don't want to go.
They're just played out.
And Nicki's feet hurt
and Margene fidgets.
So I told them to stay home,
rest up for your swearing in
the next day,
and I can fly the flag
on my own.
You're always willing
to go the extra mile.
Do you know what this is?
Margie's promotional
t-shirt.
She gave this to Cara Lynn.
That's unacceptable.
Oh, for heaven's sakes.
I thought we were over this.
The t-shirt
set her off.
Because they're skimpy
and childlike
and completely inappropriate
under the circumstances.
And you two need to finally
talk about this seriously.
She came into our marriage
under utterly false pretenses.
We've dealt with it, Nicki.
It happened in the past.
It's no one's fault.
We just didn't know. It's over.
We?
We didn't know?
She hid it so well.
How could we have?
Okay, let's move on
to the MacLaurin series.
What's the MacLaurin series
for e to the x?
MacLaurin series
for e to the x?
You know, most schools
bring in a grief counselor
when a student experiences
a death in the family.
Did someone die?
My father.
I'm so sorry.
I had no idea.
My brothers and my sisters
won't talk to me now.
And I called one of my cousins
that I was close to,
and that helped.
He lives in Las Vegas.
We talked for, like,
three hours.
It's hard because
I'm not supposed to like
any of my old family now
because my mom hates them.
It puts you in a tough spot.
You know...
My older brother died
when I was 14
and it was months
before I felt a thing
and years before
my family moved on.
I still miss him.
If you need to talk to someone,
I'm available.
Thanks.
I've been learning
a lot lately.
Business alone isn't enough.
Business and furtherance of
the spirit is the point.
I think I was just too young
to understand that before.
Mr. Ivey called.
He's worried about Cara Lynn.
Makes sense.
She's at Gary's again for dinner.
She's lost
in her own world.
He said we might want her to see
a counselor about j.J.'S death.
We don't want to talk about
this over dinner, do we?
With little ears?
No, but it got me thinking
what would happen to Cara Lynn
if something happens to me?
Nothing's gonna happen to you.
That's what everyone says.
But there are hit-and-runs,
construction accidents,
criminals breaking in.
I could fall down the stairs and
hit my head against the wall.
Technically she'd be an orphan.
Salt, please.
I think we need
to adopt her legally.
Nicki, she just found out
her father died.
That's the point.
Without a legal adoption,
she'll go to some Walker
at a compound...
can you imagine?
... Or be a ward of the state.
Maybe it's just a little
insensitive to Cara Lynn
for us to suddenly come
swooping down on her.
I totally get it.
I know what it's like
to be 15 and be miserable
and desperate
and without a father.
I would have done anything
to get adopted by anyone.
Oh, people.
This is an important topic
deserving a lot of time
and consideration.
A topic that ought to have been
discussed in private first.
She's a girl
moving through this world
without a father
or a priesthood holder,
which makes her
a spiritual orphan already.
That's enough.
Barb's right.
If we ever make it through this
week alive, we'll revisit it then.
Say, I understand
things are still rough
between you and Nicki.
Oh, they're not so bad.
Try and give her a break.
You can't blame her
if she's sensitive
about this subject now.
Your being 16 matters
a great deal to her.
Does it to you?
Well, between you and me
and my feelings for you, no.
I've noticed
things have changed.
You don't look at me
when we're having sex.
That's not true.
Yeah, it is.
You're not looking at me now.
Sweetheart, we're fine.
This is mine?
Yes, sir.
Are these the original desks
from the territorial days?
No,
but everything in here has
historical significance.
So give me the drill
for Friday.
Your swearing in
is at 4:00.
Your schedule...
always on your computer.
And you'll have a small copy to
tuck into your lapel pocket.
You're gonna be
a great intern, Stuart.
I really enjoy working with young people.
It's important.
This is almost really real.
Your password is
"bettylou."
Where are you doing your
undergraduate, Stuart?
B.Y.U....
poli sci.
B.Y.U.?
And you're comfortable
working for me?
I'm still thinking it over,
Mr. Henrickson.
He wouldn't even look at me.
Whenever I asked him something,
he answered you.
He's just trying to make
a good impression on me.
By ignoring me
and only speaking
to my priesthood holder.
You're being
a little sensitive.
I'm being a little right.
I see you brought
Barb up here today.
This is a big deal
for all of us.
Taking the oath of office
is a big deal
and a solemn occasion.
What are you packin'?
.38, Smith & Wesson.
May I?
Nice heft.
- Feels good.
- Uh-huh.
- How hot?
- 147 grain.
Hmm.
So what happened?
I thought we were pals now.
Still are as far as I know.
Well, I don't appreciate
being drug into a spotlight
not of my own making.
You want a list of the
things I don't appreciate?
Don't reference me
in public again.
If you continue
your little press tour,
it'd be a big mistake
to try to pressure me
by naming me
and singling me out.
You and midge Buckley... it's
fine for you to vilify me,
but if I fight back,
I'm out of line?
Take your pick.
I can be out there yappin'
away, drawing attention
to things you don't want
attention drawn to,
or you can invite me
into the tent.
Bill, the house
ethics committee
is poised to impeach you
the second you're sworn in.
I'll fight it.
I'll go to the senate for trial
and tie up this statehouse in
knots for the entire session.
It'll be a short trial.
The train has left the station.
It's coming straight at you.
Representative Buckley now has
14 cosponsors to her Bill.
I've faced tougher odds.
Mama?
Shame on you.
What do you think you're doing?
Intimidating anyone
who might be brave enough
to seek help from the state
is what she's been doing.
- Oh, he's a big old liar.
- What are you doing with the camera?
She's taking pictures
of anyone who walks by,
deliberately undermining the
collaborative spirit of safety net.
I am over 10' away
from the entrance.
That's what's in the agreement.
Mama, the state is not
the enemy, not anymore.
We have an interest to ensure
that the state
doesn't twist things,
plant false memories.
You know how hard early marriage
is, how vulnerable we are.
Back off.
We're not talking
fun and games anymore.
I volunteered for the task of
monitoring compliance on safety net.
Mama is harassing anyone
who steps forward.
- Get her out of there.
- We are in perfect compliance.
Don't give me your garbage.
I know better than that.
I know how subtle intimidation works.
I was a victim too.
You were no victim.
You were a lamb
in a pastel frock
skipping merrily off
to the slaughter...
I mean, altar.
- Because I was brainwashed.
- Oh, I hate that term.
You're evil.
I am evil?
You and your husband
took my family from me,
one of my wives,
my boys... my Thomas.
And you've taken mama...
a poor vulnerable woman
who's given her misguided
life to the cause.
You will fully cooperate.
You'll get nothing from me
but enmity.
I will repay what you've done
to me in spades,
and you and your husband will
never know what hit you.
Mama, I understand why
you came back here,
but I can't understand
why you're doing this to us.
- Well, thank you.
- Yes, thank you.
I'm Barbara Henrickson.
I'm here to pick up my outfits.
Oh, hello.
While I sign you in,
you can go get your hangers from the rack.
It's alphabetized.
Well, hello.
I'd like to say that this
was a complete surprise,
but I saw
your r.S.V.P.
I didn't think
you'd have the nerve.
All right, let's just please
please be nice to each other.
- This is for charity, you know.
- I'm aware of that.
Well, you'll spoil it,
swooping down
with your sisterwives,
making a spectacle
of yourselves.
I mean, I understand
the humiliation
that you felt at that mother of
the year ceremony, but still...
well, this has nothing
to do with that.
And f.Y.I.,
I'm coming alone...
no sisterwives, no spectacle.
And do you even know
what this charity is for?
It's cancer or m.S.
It's for the salt lake city
interfaith council.
So is this about you
and your new priesthood
theories that mommy mentioned?
It's about reaching out
and getting polygamy
a place at that table.
If there's a working dialogue
with catholics and protestants
and muslims and sikhs,
then... then why not us?
Well, because they're not
neanderthal, abusive cults, okay?
Maybe polygamy can change.
Maybe women can be
more empowered.
So this is about you and
your priesthood theories,
which mommy says you haven't
even mentioned to Bill.
I guess that explains
all your secrecy.
Just please
don't bring it up.
I just...
I don't want you
to embarrass yourself
or me, okay?
Needs resoling.
Needs half soles.
Bill is so hard on his heels.
Wayne needs new arch supports.
Greg lvey called.
You know you can talk with us.
I know.
When my father died,
it shook me to the core.
So I know a little bit about
what you're going through.
And I know
how confusing it can be
adjusting to things here.
All our lives
it was beat into us
that living out in the
world was satanic.
Everyone has been nice to me.
They're bending over
backwards for me.
You make it sound as if
we're merely being polite.
We care for you deeply.
We love you.
Don't you feel that?
I do.
That's what I meant.
Sweetheart,
Bill wants to adopt you
formally and officially.
We all do.
Why?
For legal reasons,
for spiritual reasons
and practical.
That's fine.
Just fine?
I was hoping for more than fine.
I was hoping for great.
But, mom, I cannot
just completely
lose dad, not yet.
I understand.
I do.
Mom?
Mom, are you
listening to me?
Mom.
Mom, mom,
are you listening?
Remember I took you
to the doctor
a few weeks ago, and then
we had those tests?
Is there something
wrong with me?
Is it bad?
Yes.
Don't keep me hanging here,
torturing me.
Well, say it.
It's dementia.
I believe I'd like
a second opinion.
If you want to talk
to the doctor yourself...
what does she know?
It showed up
on your brain scan.
This doesn't run in our family.
I know.
So it gets worse until what?
There are services
and support groups
that can help,
reality orientations.
Thank you.
Bill, we've got to tell Frank.
He needs to know.
No, he doesn't.
Do you know what
the final test showed?
You know what she has that causes
dementia if it goes untreated?
Herpes.
A venereal disease.
I know what that is, but...
dad gave it to her years ago.
She probably doesn't
have any symptoms,
probably doesn't even
know she has it.
I really need you to get over
this whole 16 thing, Nicki.
Nothing feels right anymore.
I got you your new birth certificate.
I can't fix everything.
It all feels so crazy.
It's like Bill can't even
love me in the same way.
Sorry, Margie.
I really wish I could help.
I wish I could
make it all go away.
Why are you so upset with me?
I'm not you.
I knew what I wanted.
At 16?
No one really knows.
I did.
I wanted out any way I could.
You were too young
to make that choice.
No, I wasn't.
I'm sorry your sex life
with Bill is so difficult.
And I'm sorry your early
sex life was so rough.
I don't want to talk about
my sex life with you...
not my current sex life,
not my early sex life.
And here's the huge reason...
I was a victim of that system,
and you were a perpetrator.
Why does everyone have to be
either a perpetrator or a victim?
Why can't it be that
Bill and I were in love?
Your abuse is not
my abuse, Nicki.
I was a normal person.
So you really really
need to get off my back.
This is the last time
I'm gonna say it.
My dad didn't know, period.
He didn't do anything wrong.
What do I know?
My dad's building a bunker
in the backyard.
A bunker?
Against the bad guys.
Ben, the movie starts
in 15 minutes.
What if he's not coming?
Or what if he's lost?
Then he'll call.
Mr. Ivey?
Cara Lynn, hi.
Hi.
Mom, dad, this my student,
Cara Lynn Walker.
You're the math star Greg's
talked so much about.
He talked about me?
I think I mentioned you
once or twice.
Oh, she's the girl
who won the competition.
Hi, Mr. Ivey.
Heather? Hi.
Well, it was nice seeing you.
Um, have a good night.
You're being tutored
by Mr. Ivey?
He's kind of short.
- Cara Lynn?
- Verlan.
Look at you.
Look at you.
Look at you.
You're not compound anymore.
My papa's dead.
He's dead.
It's okay.
It's okay.
It's okay.
Okay?
- Okay.
- All right.
Hey.
Rhonda?
You guys know each other?
Hey, honey, don't be shy.
I told you I got
hitched, right?
Finally we've got our full
profit participation back.
And what I want now is our
management contract back.
I'd be willing to split my time
between here and the stores
while you're
in the senate 24/7.
I appreciate that.
This place has to offset
any home plus losses.
Speaking of losses,
peg just bought
1200 bucks' worth of that
sour juice from Marge.
I can't afford that right now.
Maybe you can ask Marge
to back off for me.
I don't think I can ask Marge
to do anything right now.
I just found out
she was 16 when we married.
I'm not joking.
You just found out?
- What is your problem, Bill?
- Whoa, buddy.
- That's just plain stupid.
- I don't need a lecture.
You should have known.
Something like this gets out...
there goes everything.
It's good night, Irene.
You think I'm happy about this?
People who do what I did should be locked up.
I believe that.
I don't believe in underage sex and
saying these are the times we live in.
I can't even look Barb
in the eye.
I don't know how to square it.
I'm not Roman grant.
The guns of the world are
trained on you right now.
And all our fates hang on whether you
sink or swim, and you tell me this?
You're not listening to me.
I didn't know.
Oh, you didn't?
I remember.
You were determined
to have her.
Didn't matter that she was
outside the faith.
You were obsessed with her, and
it wasn't for her intellect.
So just what was
all that about, Bill?
Just please ask my family
to talk to me.
I'll try, but they hate me too.
Well, at least come to my
house for dinner tomorrow.
Oh, we can't.
We got some junk we gotta do.
Please. I'll talk to Nicki,
and you can meet everybody.
I really wish we could, but...
we'll be back soon.
Okay?
I'm glad you guys
found each other.
I'm sorry
for the things I've said
about you, Heather,
about having
unnatural attractions.
I wasn't always truthful
in the past.
Really?
Hold Jessica.
Hi.
Verlan changed my life.
He got me off the streets.
I was in all sorts of trouble,
but his love saved me.
He brought the sunshine
back into my life.
I have to ask...
whose baby is it?
Mine.
And Verlan's.
You know, that was
really mean, Ben.
And just so you know,
we don't believe
in the principle anymore.
I'll get a refill.
Hey.
How are you doing on cash?
I...
I left my wallet at the pump
a couple of gas stations ago.
I had to cancel
all my credit cards.
Here, I've got like...
like $18.
Wow, that's...
thanks,
- really.
- Sure.
It's so good to see you.
Come here.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
Well, come on.
I'm almost ready.
There's juice on the counter.
- Mom, I'm tired.
- Honey, shh.
What's going on?
I've commandeered
your house, Barb,
for our first
family home evening.
It's 6:00
in the morning.
It seems to be
the only time we have.
I've downloaded
a lot materials,
but we'll go slow
because I'm a novice too.
We'll start by sharing
stories of faith.
Then we'll have a reading
from the book of mormon
about forgiveness
and moving on.
This is impossible.
I've got meetings all day.
I'm trying to choke off midge's Bill.
This is ridiculous.
Nicki, this is a way
we can all move forward
together as a family, spiritually reaffirmed.
So get on the bus.
Are we supposed to be sleep-deprived
because you feel guilty about lying to us?
That's
Stuart with my schedule.
If you don't want to
participate, you don't have to.
But for five years you've been upset with
me because I haven't been with the program,
and now I am.
So I thought you'd be happy.
Nicki, you're staying.
We're gonna sit down
- for a little Bible instruction
led by Margene. - Hi, Stuart.
He's busy at the moment.
You can give me the message.
No, Stuart.
Give me the message.
All right, Stuart, give me...
Stuart.
What do you mean, the
meeting's been changed? 3:00?
Let's just call this what it
is... an attempt to atone.
But atonement without taking
responsibility is meaningless.
U take no responsibility
for what you did.
- I take complete responsibility.
- Not morally.
Morally, you think it's just fine.
You've said as much.
I've been reading a book of
Bill's on Joseph Smith and Emma.
He had 34 wives, and four of
them were between 14 and 15.
Hold on.
My appointment book's upstairs.
- It's true, Nicki.
- I'm sure all of those girls
had lost their families
and he took them in.
Hello.
Same here.
I mean, that's all I'm saying.
They were his wife Emma's
maids and nannies, like me.
But he coerced some of them.
Bill never coerced me.
Well, aren't we all glad
to hear that?
What we have is good.
It's always been good.
Why are we so ashamed
of everything now?
Because you were 16 years old,
and you were in bed
with my husband.
Thanks for sticking it out
with Marge.
I got my meeting
with the Attorney General.
Oh, and there's some
new pills in the cupboard
for mom for me
off-label benefit.
I saw two cans of peaches
in her room.
She's using them as dumbbells,
trying to stay fit.
When I think of what
Frank has done to her...
she had no say,
none whatsoever.
What did he do to me?
What was done to me?
Dad gave you a disease?
Years ago.
What kind of disease?
It's from sexual
relations, Lois.
V.D.?
Frank gave me v.D.?
I don't believe it.
It's impossible.
It's true.
Then give me a shot.
Fix it.
It's too late.
Kind of like getting ready for the
first day of school, isn't it?
- Jeff, thanks for coming to see me.
- Oh, sure.
I gotta say, school was
a little easier than this.
They're not exactly sending the
welcome wagon for you, are they?
Not exactly.
I wanted to ask.
Midge Buckley's Bill...
have you reviewed
the copy I sent you?
Yeah, I did.
Where do you stand?
The Bill's a real stink bomb.
If it passes,
I lose all discretion
over enforcement of
the anti-polygamy statute.
Citizens can sue me
if I don't prosecute.
I'd have to come after you, Bill, and
tens of thousands just like you.
Jeff, you're the a.G.
You could take it to court,
declare it unconstitutional.
Well, a year ago
I could have tried,
but not now.
Seems we are entering a new era
of zero tolerance.
Jeff, I'm gonna be sitting
on appropriations.
You're gonna want
your budget passed.
With one rider, I can
stop that from happening.
Are... are you saying
what I think you're saying?
Thanks for your time, Jeff.
- Lois?
- Hmm.
It's all been such a waste.
It's been a waste.
Lois, come inside.
It's freezing out.
I'm filthy.
What are you talking about?
Just...
Come on.
Let's get you inside.
I've got no good shoes.
It's okay.
It's okay.
What is it?
I just want to say I know
how messed up my family is.
So thanks for being so cool
and not judging them or me.
You're not messed up.
You're fine
mostly.
Yes, I know who you are.
And I certainly remember
who you used to be.
I don't care
what you think of me.
We want $50,000
as compensation for the pain,
suffering and displacement
caused to my wife
intentionally by your father.
You're just a couple
of callow gold-diggers...
you, little weasel, Walker scum
come crawling back to the compound;
And you, you wanton
little grifter.
Watch your mouth when you
talk to my wife or I'll...
or you'll what?
After what old Roman did to me,
i was so confused
I couldn't even waitress.
I had to dance.
I had to go to special parties
and dance for strangers.
This is the most pathetic
shakedown I can imagine.
We're prepared to sue.
My wife was an innocent child.
Rhonda's willing to go
in front of a jury
and tell them everything
your father did to her.
And no one will care.
You have no case.
Get out.
Who do you think
you're dealing with here?
I'm Albert grant.
That old man ruined me,
but verlan loves me anyway.
Thank you.
I want you to know
I called Lee.
I set up a time next week to sit down
and talk about Cara Lynn's adoption.
Bill.
But I need you to do
something for me.
Cut Marge some slack.
Be a little sensitive.
Stop provoking her.
Everybody's moved on
except you.
Try and be a bit more like Barb
and rise above it.
Hardly.
What does that mean?
It so happens Barb blames
you for this whole mess...
you and your animal urges.
She's humiliated by you.
I don't believe that.
I don't like the acrimony
any more than you do.
But the way she sees it,
you seduced Marge.
She implied moral debauchery.
Debauchery?
Barb said that?
- In so many words.
- Or is that what you think?
- Not anymore.
- You used to?
Bill...
Heavenly father gave men urges
and strong needs
to go do their business.
Margene was about me
doing my business?
Oh, it's not your fault.
That's how you're made.
And I said I used to think that.
Barb's the one ashamed now.
- Where is she?
- That fashion show with Cindy.
She deliberately didn't invite her
sisterwives, so she could invite her sister.
She told me you and Marge
were too worn out to go.
It's not true.
I desperately wanted to go.
She's lying
her boots off, Bill.
She'd rather lie than be honest
and admit that she's
ashamed of me and Margene
and you and all your
animal urges.
Stop saying that.
We're not falling apart.
We're not splitting and fracturing,
not on the Eve of our great
triumph, no matter what.
We all
deal with this pressure
to be flawless spiritually
and physically,
to be worthy
of our husband's love.
But remember,
you are worthy.
Your husband wouldn't be with
you if you weren't worthy.
Your effort will bring
perfection.
Thank you.
Barbie, don't do it.
No, please.
Please.
Evelyn.
Mrs. linton.
Barbara Henrickson.
It's been a while since
we shared a public stage.
Are you all right?
I'm a little bit nervous.
I'm sorry.
A lot's happened since
we saw each other last.
I did not know
you two were sisters.
- Mm.
- Oh yeah.
I want to be a part of your
charity, your interfaith council.
As a representative
of your husband's church?
Well, his church is changing.
It's evolving.
We may not be catholics,
but we're one up
on the scientologists.
I mean according to
what I've read.
What are you
thinking of exactly?
We're going to be a church
that values women
and their relationship
with heavenly father.
Well, I would be interested
in talking to you
about this, Barbara...
very interested.
Excuse me.
Nicki, Margene,
I was just telling the first lady
how much we admire her work.
We do?
It's good to meet you,
Nicki, Margene.
Evelyn, why don't we
step back outside?
- I have a question I'd
like to ask you. - Right.
- What are you doing here?
- No, what are you doing here?
- I'm not the one tripped up in a web of lies.
- Please, Nicki.
Bill sent us.
He's furious you ditched us.
In defending you,
I had to tell him
what you lacked
the courage to say...
that you blamed him for
corrupting and seducing Margene.
- I never said I blamed him.
- You certainly implied it.
And I wasn't seduced
and corrupted.
I was... I was angry
at myself.
I... I share
in the responsibility.
I... I think I had an idea
about her age.
Hello.
I'm standing right here.
I didn't know for sure.
Maybe I chose not to know.
- Maybe I turned a blind eye.
- Why would you have done that?
Because I was desperate.
Over what?
I was so sad with you and Bill.
Our marriage...
I couldn't bear it.
I was lonely
and felt so excluded.
And Margie changed things.
She made me happy.
Barb, that's so sweet.
Let me get this straight.
I made you so unhappy
that I drove you
into the arms of Margene?
No, I am saying
at key moments in my life,
key moments in the history
of the family,
I've lacked the courage
of my convictions.
And you shouldn't be so
holier-than-thou, Nicki.
It's not like you didn't turn a complete
blind eye to your father's nastiness,
which you wouldn't know, the way
you've been squawking at me.
I pushed him down the stairs.
Don't you two gang up on me.
How many other men
did you throw yourself at
in your attempts to get
adopted, hmm, Margene?
Is that who you think I am...
a sex-starved babysitter
throwing myself at men?
Don't think I'm the only one.
Why do you think Bill can't look
at you when you're, you know...?
I mean, isn't it obvious?
He wonders how many other
men you threw yourself at,
how damaged are the goods.
Yes.
You, get in here.
Now.
I'll get back to you.
You tried to bribe the Attorney General?
I could have you arrested.
I did no such thing.
You're lying and
you're not even sworn in.
You're committing
impeachable offenses.
Our faith has been sustained
on prevarication and lying...
missionaries shading the
truth, church presidents
going on "Larry king," lying,
covering up embarrassing details.
- You are out of order!
- It's called lying for the lord,
and wee been doing it
for 150 years.
Do you think you're gonna accomplish
one thing if you're sworn in?
You want a Bill?
Forget it.
I'll see it never gets out of
committee, never gets to committee.
- You're a political eunuch.
- I just want to be allowed to do my job!
Bill.
Nicki told me
why you can't look at me.
Marge, go away.
Not now.
I never threw myself
at another man.
- Please don't think that.
- We'll talk about this at home.
I babysat for two other families
before you, but nothing happened.
What are you wearing?
Put a coat on.
I don't need a coat.
You do.
You look a teenybopper.
Bill, this isn't about me.
This is about you.
You've got to forgive yourself.
You have to change your
perception of what you see.
Look, change begins within.
Cover up, for crying out loud.
Everyone will see you.
And this just isn't the time
or the place, believe me.
- I feel absolutely fine.
- Well, then you probably are.
But you suffered a concussion and
passed out for over 30 minutes.
We really need to keep an eye
out for any complications.
I have to be at the
capitol by 4:00 tomorrow.
- He's getting sworn in.
- Shouldn't be a problem.
Settle in.
I'll check in on you later.
I can't believe
you ran him over.
- I tapped him. - Stop it.
It was an accident.
Please don't talk to me.
You hate me.
I don't want to talk
to someone who hates me.
I just said the polygamy thing
works better for me
if it's four of us, okay?
We are on the Eve of achieving
the greatest milestone
in the history of polygamy
in over 100 years.
Supposedly we weren't gonna have
to lie about who we were anymore.
But Marge has brought us
back to square one.
My head is killing me.
I'd like some quiet.
Go home, all of you,
please.
Hello, Bill.
Emma?
Emma Smith.
Yes, I am.
How is Sarah?
Such a tragedy...
her miscarriage.
Well, she's doing much better.
She's married now and living in Portland.
Thanks for asking.
I used to pray for the strength
God gave your husband Joseph.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
No 14-year-olds,
no 15-year olds.
No nurses or nannies,
not in my household,
never.
Now I pray for the strength
God gave to you.
The liars and the sinners
wrote those books.
There were no girls...
no underage girls, Bill.
Emma.
How many more Miles?
You be careful now.
Mom, that was Emma Smith.
Isn't this the loveliest time?
Where's Bill?
The nurse just took him
for a scan.
I... I just called
the senate.
That lousy intern
should have called.
They found out Bill's in the hospital
and moved up his swearing in to...
- to when?
- To now.
What?
You, nurse,
my husband's having
some sort of scan.
- Where would that be?
- I don't know.
It could be downstairs in the
basement or on the third floor,
over in radiology or...
or the university annex.
- Here, you wait here for Bill.
- Where are you going?
The capitol.
- Who are these monsters?
- Eagle forum eaglets.
Does your mother know
where you are, young lady?
She drove me here.
I'm sorry, ladies.
The senate's in session.
Do you have a pass?
We are here on behalf of
senator Henrickson.
Well, you have to be
a legislator
or have written pass
to be on the floor.
Well, what about interns?
They're...
they're allowed in.
Is there a problem, Zeb?
None.
You're fired.
I'm his intern,
and she's with me.
Madam, we are in session.
I understand,
Mr. president.
Do you have business
before this body?
I'm Barb Henrickson.
My husband Bill Henrickson
was supposed to be sworn in
at 4:00, but you moved it up.
And who are you?
I'm Margene he... Heffman,
Mr. president.
I am also
Mr. Henrickson's wife.
And what you have done to
our husband is not fair.
What exactly
is your purpose here?
All good mormons believe that one
day polygamy will come back.
It's an essential doctrine
of the fullness of the
restoration of the gospel.
I guess I'm just
showing up a little early.
You are aware
your oath asks you
to uphold the constitution
of this state,
and article III
of that constitution
bans polygamy?
Do you wish to proceed?
Our shared religious tradition
asks us to follow
a higher power.
Section 134 of our
doctrine and covenants:
"Religion is instituted of God,"
and human law has
no right to interfere
in proscribing
rules of worship
or to decide forums
"of public
or private devotion."
Persecuting me violates
your own scripture.
It makes hypocrites of you all
and traitors
to our history.
I am a proud mormon polygamist
elected by my district,
and I demand to be sworn in.
I, William Henrickson,
do solemnly swear
that I will support,
obey and defend
the constitution
of the United States
and the constitution
of this state,
and that I will discharge
the duties of my office
with fidelity, so help me God.
Someone needs to stop Clearway Law.
Public shouldn't leave reviews for lawyers.