Six Feet Under (2001–2005): Season 2, Episode 6 - In Place of Anger - full transcript
At a corporate-funded boat-party he denounces, Matthew Heath Collins has too much to drink, drops his latest beverage over the side of the deck, and in attempting to retrieve it falls underwater and is cut by the propeller. His widow Catherine first contacts Fisher & Sons for a closed-casket funeral without bodily repairs, then chooses to switch to Kroehner's instead, forcing David and Nate to think of a way to set a cheap, but reasonable, price to convince her to switch back. Ruth's sister Sarah comes to visit upon receiving her message after years of feuding, angering Ruth once again at the memory of how her friend slept with Nate as a teenager and she did nothing to help with taking care of their grandmother. So she's not very supportive that Sarah informs Claire she's a natural artist. David continues dating Ben but doesn't feel anything for him - he chooses not to invite him to Nate and Brenda's engagement dinner with the family, Sarah, and Nikolai, where the dinner's conversations and divulged secrets make it difficult for Ruth to receive it well. When David and Nate are invited on a recreational Kroehner business trip where they again forcibly reject the offer, Rico gets into an argument with his family that he can't stick around to help them repair their mold-infested wall. Brenda goes beyond her normal interactions with clients to sleep with one. Just before her husband's funeral, Catherine Collins requests Nate to show her the body she asked not to be cleaned, and has an interesting reaction compared to her grief and despair earlier.
Over there. I just saw a fin.
Right. In the most polluted port in America?
- Nothing could live here.
- Really?
That makes me sad.
It looks so beautiful at night.
Yeah, so is Burbank.
- You're gorgeous, you know that?
- Shut up!
So why haven't you
ever talked to me before?
I was intimidated. You're very intimidating.
You're full of shit.
Of course they pick
a goddamn boat this year...
so nobody can leave
before Parkinson's jerk-off speech...
about what a fucking great company
this is, right?
Right.
Like anything that self-important fuck says
could change the fact...
that we'll be filing for bankruptcy
by the end of the year.
You're new here, aren't you?
Yeah, about six months.
I'd start sending out my résumé now...
unless you're one of
Parkinson's fucking inner circle.
If you are, then...
fuck me, right?
- Do you wanna go and get another drink?
- Please.
Excuse me. I guess I'm the asshole...
for telling the fucking truth!
Shit!
That's not fair.
You suck!
- Morning.
- God, you scared me!
- You're up early.
- I slept like a fucking baby.
- Yeah, me, too.
- After the night we had?
The sheer exhaustion factor alone.
Yeah, I gotta say it was worth the wait.
- So does this mean the ebb is over?
- For now.
Want a coffee?
- Wow, this is kind of racy.
- Hey, no!
- Is that your novel?
- I don't know what it is yet.
- When do I get to read it?
- When it's ready, if it's ever ready.
Well, who's Christina?
Is that your fictional alter ego?
Your Holden Caulfield?
She's more like my Humbert Humbert.
You know, my Constance Chatterley.
She's like Hermione
in the Harry Potter books.
What would you rather have:
Some overly-educated gasbag like Trevor...
or a semi-literate fuck machine like me?
Come on.
That's a no-brainer. No pun intended.
I have something for you.
I know it's small, but it is a diamond.
You think I care about diamonds?
Will you marry me, Brenda Chenowith?
Haven't we done this already?
- What?
- I love you.
Good.
Something else?
I thought we could announce it to my family
at dinner tonight.
I was gonna ask my mom to make dinner.
Look, we have to do this sometime.
- And what about your family?
- Are you kidding?
They are way too consumed
in their own divorce drama to even notice.
Let's just not tell them and say that we did.
And what about Billy?
You know, I haven't really talked to him
for a while.
Why don't I make you pancakes
from scratch...
like a good little wife-to-be...
before I fuck your brains out
and send you to work?
How about we skip the pancakes?
Shit, you're already dressed?
Am I holding you up?
No, not really.
- Well, maybe a little.
- You've got the best shower.
Mine's just this weird bolt
sticking out of the wall that sends out mist.
It takes five minutes just to get wet.
How come I always stay here?
It's time for you to stay at my place.
- After that great recommendation?
- It's nice.
MGM built it back in the '30s
to house starlets.
Great parquet floors,
unbelievable molding...
but some idiot did an '80s retro-fit
and ripped out all the good fixtures.
I'll be happy to stay at your house,
fixtures aside.
You know, I never thought
you'd call me back after that second date.
Why?
Because I never think
the good guys are gonna call back.
Who said I'm a good guy?
Well, it's been three weeks.
That's usually a sign.
Check with me in three months.
I'll tell you how you're doing.
Good morning. Sit. Have some breakfast.
- Most important meal of the day.
- Good morning, dear.
Apparently.
How would you like your eggs?
Surprise me.
Now, this is good, yeah?
All together for breakfast.
Well, I see it's Good Neighbor Day
at the Fisher house.
David, was that a new friend I saw
leaving this morning?
- Mom, please, I'd rather not discuss...
- What does he do?
He's a public defender.
You should have asked him in for breakfast.
We'd all like to meet him.
Yes, bring him next time.
I would like to meet him.
Where's Nate?
We have an intake in 15 minutes.
He called from the car.
There was an accident on the 10...
and he told me to ask everyone
to be here for dinner tonight.
He has something important to tell us.
A big family dinner.
It will be fun.
Everybody had gotten off...
and the lights were on.
You could see what a dumpy little boat
it actually was...
And he just wasn't there.
- It's hard to believe right now, but time...
- I got dumped at a party in college once...
it was the Kappa Sig luau...
by some guy whose name
I don't even remember.
The sun was coming up, and I just...
sat there staring at this stupid pig carcass...
in my stupid Hawaiian-print sundress.
Mrs. Collins, have you thought about...
Matthew and I had been married
for almost 20 years.
Can you believe that?
I met him when I was barely 20.
And now he's dead...
and I'm just that much closer to it.
I'm sorry, we don't allow smoking inside.
Please put that out. It's against
California State Law. We could be fined.
Sorry.
How long will it take?
It depends on the kind of service
you were thinking of.
Length of visitation,
should you choose an open casket...
My husband was dredged up
from Long Beach Harbor...
with a propeller slice
halfway down his body.
Closed casket, then.
How much? I can't spend a lot of money.
We're probably looking at around $7,000.
That seems like a lot.
It's about average, maybe a little less.
We'll take care of everything...
make it as easy on you as possible.
I need to think about this.
- Of course. Let us know what you decide.
- I can show myself out.
- Shopping around for the best deal.
- Isn't that her right?
She's wasting our time.
Oh, dear, when did you get so dried out?
You must be thirsty.
The flowers are lovely, Sarah. Thank you.
I just cut them on my walk
through the canyon.
Don't worry, you didn't put me out one bit.
This kitchen is exactly the same.
Yes, it is.
You look well.
- So do you.
- I only just got your messages.
I was in Madrid.
I wanted to stay through Christmas,
but I ran out of money.
The reason I was calling was because...
What I want to say was that...
I forgive you.
You're the only family,
apart from the children, that I have left.
I didn't want more time to go by
with our not talking.
We're sisters. We shouldn't be estranged.
I took this course called The Plan.
You did The Plan? You're shitting me.
That is so great, Ruth. You, of all people.
- What's that supposed to mean?
- No, it's very brave.
I know it couldn't have been easy for you.
I did it back in the '70s...
when it was still called
"Transitional Focus."
Before Ernst Vollhoffer was busted
for tax evasion...
and sold it to the Canadians.
That's when it became The Plan.
I met Vollhoffer at a party once...
and he came on to me.
But I'd just dropped acid for the first time...
and I thought he was
some Mayan death priest...
who wanted to cut out my heart
and throw it into a pit.
So I blew him off.
Catherine Collins has decided to go
with the Unger mortuary.
Well, I guess that's that.
Unger is a Kroehner home, Nate.
Yeah, so?
So Kroehner charges about double
what we do.
That's the third funeral
Kroehner has stolen from us...
since Mitzi Huntley came to visit.
They are after us again.
Look, now you're just being dramatic.
This from a man
who basically lives in denial.
Look, Stan told me at lunch last week
that Kroehner stock had taken a nosedive.
Why would they be wasting their time
with small potatoes like us?
Maybe because you told Mitzi
to shove her good-faith gesture up her ass?
I told you guys that Kroehner wasn't
gonna let up, but nobody listens to me.
Not now, Federico. We needed that funeral.
How else are we paying for the fine
from the DCA?
That's $1,800 we don't have right now.
I asked you to check the proof.
No license number on a billboard
opposite a retirement home...
makes us look like amateurs.
We cannot afford to be vulnerable.
I'm not comfortable starting
on this woman's perm until I have a photo.
Any idea when that's supposed to arrive?
I have an inspector coming to my house
this afternoon.
It came in this morning
and I put it in her file...
which you would know
if you bothered to look.
I'm calling Catherine,
and I'm going to lowball Unger.
Even if we cut our profits in half,
we can show Kroehner we're willing to fight.
Hey, Mom.
Hello.
Who are you?
I'm your Aunt Sarah.
Claire, the Goddess
is clearly manifesting through you.
- It's very obvious.
- Thanks.
I thought you were dead.
The skin like milk. Treasure it while it lasts.
Ruth, you told your daughter I was dead?
Shame on you.
I never told her any such thing.
Claire, why would you lie about that?
Whenever you talked about her,
it just sounded like she was dead.
I just assumed.
Well, I've made a miraculous recovery.
Tell me exactly what you were feeling
when you made this.
- Boredom.
- Liar.
There's anger and yearning...
passion, resentment of the status quo,
some jealousy of it, as well.
Not the most original perspective,
but it's authentic.
I love this!
The technique: Very precise, very adult.
The death of romance
in a regimented, artificial world.
Lovely.
Actually, I found it in the garbage.
My dad threw it out after a funeral.
I thought it looked cool, so I kept it.
You're an artist, Claire.
- Please.
- I'm not saying you're any good, yet.
But if you focus and live fully,
you could become something.
If you're lucky and don't self-destruct.
- Right.
- You've got an eye.
You see through the veil.
It's a blessing and a curse.
Okay.
You need something red
in your relationship corner...
like a red velvet pillow.
Something bordello-ey.
You're resisting the carnal.
That's your mother rubbing off on you.
Put a plant in your knowledge corner
if you want to grow into your potential.
What is that, Feng Shui?
You're kidding, right?
You can drop the generic apathy crap.
That's just laziness.
You're more than that and you know it.
Hey, baby, sorry I'm late.
Rico, we are fucked.
It's definitely mold.
I told you so. See, this is why
Julio's cold don't get any better.
Maybe you've got structural damage
in your chimney...
and water's leaking in.
When the rain starts, it'll get worse.
Okay, what can we do?
I got to rip this all out
and see what's going on inside.
Maybe we can patch things up,
maybe it'll be bigger than that.
- How much is it all gonna cost?
- You got serious water damage here.
It could be anywhere from $3,000
to maybe $7,000 if your roof is involved.
Excuse me one second.
- We can get Ramon to fix it.
- Fix it?
He didn't even spot it. You heard him.
There's serious water damage.
- Any idiot would know that.
- Don't call my cousin an idiot.
Okay, no, I'll call you an idiot...
because you were too cheap
to get a real inspector initially.
I'm an idiot?
Maybe it wasn't the smartest idea
to go to your sister...
and buy this piece-of-shit house
behind my back. Now you think about that.
- God damn it!
- What happened?
I just got snapped running a red light.
We are living in a motherfucking
police state, I tell you what!
Any calls while I was at lunch?
The Unger mortuary called to say the funeral
we poached from Fisher & Sons...
- is going back to them.
- You're kidding!
We undercut them by almost $500.
Well, now they've undercut us
by nearly $1,000.
Oh, my God, I love this!
They're cute,
but they are such bad businessmen.
Well, they won't last.
What have I got tomorrow?
Your trainer at 9.00...
then back-to-back performance reviews
from 1.00 to 5.00.
Cancel everything except the trainer.
All right.
I think I need to spend a little quality time
with the fabulous Fisher boys.
- Ruth, do you have any tarragon?
- All the spices are in that cabinet.
Well, now I know what to get you
for Christmas.
Dean & Deluca have these
fantastic spices in test tubes.
Very mad scientist. You'll love them.
- What are you making?
- I'm not sure yet.
I'm making Chicken Kiev.
I bought all the ingredients
to make Chicken Kiev.
So we'll make Chicken Kiev.
Have tarragon, will travel.
Tarragon is not listed in the ingredients.
Following instructions?
Where's the creativity in that?
Cooking is alchemy, not a science.
It is if you want it to turn out right.
Is there anything I can do to help?
Smell.
This vodka is from Poland. You will like it.
Ruthie, why don't you join us?
Thank you, but I'll wait till dinner is served
to have a glass of wine.
Okay, suit yourself.
Where you learning to speak the Russian?
It's a long story.
Let's just say there was a man involved.
Of course there was.
Claire, when you are finished
mixing the herbs in...
you want to form the butter into little logs.
Eight of them.
No, not at all. It's deliciously sensual.
Wash your hands first, Claire.
You wild woman.
Nikolai is adorable and hot.
The sex must be spectacular! Good for you.
Oh, my God!
You're all grown up,
but your face is still 12 years old.
David, you remember your Aunt Sarah?
Yes, hi.
I'm sure you couldn't forget her if you tried.
- David, have some vodka.
- Yes.
This is so surreal.
The engagement dinner.
I feel like I'm in a training movie from
the '50s about how normal people behave.
Well, my family's anything but normal.
Compared to mine,
they're the fucking Cleavers.
Just relax and enjoy yourself, all right?
You look gorgeous.
- Everybody loves you.
- Not your mother.
All you have to do is sit back...
and be the center of attention, all right?
Come on.
So, Linda, what do you do?
- It's Brenda.
- Forgive me, I'm drunk.
It's all Nikolai's fault.
He's been plying me with vodka
since the moment he arrived.
I'm a massage therapist.
She's an amazing massage therapist,
and she's writing a novel.
You are?
I'm writing something.
We'll see what it turns into.
Have you ever read
Charlotte Light and Dark?
- Yes.
- Well, she's Charlotte.
- I didn't know that.
- What is this, Charlotte light and who?
It's this book
about this girl who's being analyzed...
and she's smarter than the people
who are analyzing her.
And so she's constantly fucking with them.
It's hilarious.
You continue to be drawn
to strong, complex women. Bravo.
Mom, this dinner is delicious.
I think it's a little sour, myself.
- No, it's one of the best you've ever made.
- It's great.
- Here, more vodka?
- Please.
I had a lover who was Russian.
He once told me...
that vodka was to Russians
what therapy is to Americans.
Something habit-forming and expensive...
that totally destroys your ability
to lead an authentic life.
Sorry, both my parents are shrinks.
And that was very painful for you.
But if it weren't for that, you probably
wouldn't be writing your novel, right?
Speaking of creativity, is everyone aware
of the budding artist in the family?
- No, who?
- You haven't seen Claire's work?
Shame on you. She needs feedback...
even if it's just so she can learn to ignore it.
Claire, I know so many creative people
from all over the world.
You must come stay with me
in Topanga Canyon and meet some of them.
Okay.
What?
Now's as good a time as any, I guess.
The reason that I wanted us all
to get together for dinner tonight...
is that Brenda and I
have decided to get married.
Good, married. This calls for a toast, yes?
Absolutely!
There you go. Something to toast with.
To romantic love:
Both the inspiration and utter folly of it.
Thank you. That's really kind.
- Cheers.
- Congratulations.
So, Linda, I never would have taken you
as the type to get married.
Show us the ring.
Yeah, don't blink.
You might miss the diamond.
- Here you go.
- No, it's beautiful.
It's lovely. Ruth, did you see?
Yes, very nice.
I'll go put on some coffee.
Is there any more of that vodka left?
Ruthie, what's wrong?
Your son is going to marry.
This is a beautiful thing.
It's been a long day, that's all. I'm fine.
Just look at this mess.
Don't worry. I'm going to help you clean up.
Thank you.
God, there is so much emotion to navigate
where family is concerned.
Vicodin anyone?
No, thanks, I'm fine.
Okay, what's the deal
with me going to Topanga Canyon?
Mom totally freaked.
No one ever told you? Oh, my!
It seems I'm a terrible influence.
David and I went to stay
with Aunt Sarah one weekend...
and I kind of lost my virginity.
How old were you?
- Fifteen.
- How old was she?
- I'm not sure. 20-something.
- She was 32.
Oh, my God, that's totally fucked up!
Your mother has never forgiven me
and she never will, no matter what she says.
Granted, there was an awful moment
when David was lost...
but he was found completely unharmed
in the canyon the next morning.
Damn, I miss out on all the best stuff
in this family.
Well, that was a disaster.
Your mother hates me more than ever now.
- She does not hate you.
- Come on, Nate.
Who cares if she does?
I'm just glad it's over.
On to the next. We have a whole lifetime...
of tense and uncomfortable
family gatherings to look forward to.
- Hello?
- Hey, where have you been?
We had kind of a family dinner.
My brother's getting married.
- Are you drunk?
- Yes.
My mother's boyfriend kept pouring vodka.
I'm gonna have
such a fucking headache tomorrow.
Your mom's boyfriend was there?
So how come you didn't invite me?
Because I knew it would be excruciating...
and I wanted to spare you?
I wish you were here, or me there.
Why?
So we could have hot sex
and then fall asleep together.
You could always come over here.
I'm too drunk. I shouldn't drive.
Or I could come over there.
I'm too drunk. I shouldn't drive.
Take some aspirin before you go to bed,
and vitamin C. Drink lots of water.
I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Okay, bye.
Hey, Mom.
Here, let me help you.
You ready?
You should have used
your grandmother's ring.
God knows your brother
isn't going to use it.
And who knows
if Claire will ever settle down.
That ring was for you.
- I didn't even know about it...
- You are the firstborn...
and probably the only opportunity
for grandchildren that I will ever live to see.
Mom, you never even told me about it.
What I think this is really about
is you don't like Brenda.
That's not true.
I just don't want you to get hurt.
Is she pregnant?
No, she's not.
But she is the woman I love, Mom.
You may not think she's the best person for
me, but I do, and I need you to accept that.
We're glad you came back to Fisher & Sons.
You gave me the best price.
That's the only reason I'm here.
That other place wanted me to sign
some waiver before I could see the body.
Do you want me to do that, as well?
Mrs. Collins,
I don't think you want to go through that.
Your husband's body
experienced severe trauma.
It's beyond restoration.
Restoration? No, I don't want him restored.
What's the point?
Perhaps we should choose a casket.
You think it's a day like any other.
What you don't realize
is that anything can happen.
And then it does.
It happens.
And there's so much left unsaid.
And it was all just wasted time.
I just want somebody
to help me understand.
Just to help.
Can you help me?
The first line of C. S. Lewis'
A Grief Observed is:
"No one ever told me grief felt so like fear."
I'll get you a copy. I think it will help.
It's going to be okay.
No, it's not.
What's wrong?
Doesn't it ever get you down?
Sure, all the time.
You know, I keep thinking
it's going to get easier, but it just doesn't.
No, it doesn't.
It just gets more familiar.
Hello? Anybody home?
Hello?
Don't you two look sharp!
Just as sharp as a couple of little tacks.
Miss Huntley. What can we do for you?
Well, for one thing, you can call me Mitzi.
Stop being so goddamn formal.
Now, how come y'all have not thanked me
for this snazzy casket wall?
Maybe I should thank you for selling
our beautiful and highly profitable caskets.
Seeing as how you've bought up, absorbed,
and shut down every other competitor?
What the fuck do you want?
What the fuck do I want?
I want you boys to come the fuck with me
on a little fucking trip.
What do you fucking say?
What kind of fucking trip?
Well, see, now that's a secret.
- We're very busy.
- Well, I suggest you get unbusy.
I understand Fisher & Sons...
forgot to put their license number
on a recently-printed advertisement.
We've already been fined for that.
So you can just turn around...
No, I'm not talking about the billboard.
I'm talking about the two-column incher
in the funeral pages of the LA Times.
It's run three weeks in a row now.
So that is three fines that you can avoid
if you just...
drop the attitude and come with me.
Federico, hi, it's David.
Nate and I are tied up
for the rest of the day...
so we need you to pick up the Collins body
from the Unger mortuary.
- You can't just expect me to drop...
- Federico, I need you to do this.
Fine.
Collins? You bad boy.
That wasn't very nice of you,
stealing a funeral from us.
- One that you stole from us first.
- Oh, please.
This whole self-righteous
chip-on-the-shoulder thing...
kind of worked for Russell Crowe
in Gladiator.
But you don't have the special effects
to back it up.
You get a big kick out of yourself,
don't you?
And you are a big stick-in-the-mud,
aren't you?
Lighten up.
The whole purpose of this trip
is to have fun.
Just ask Bobo.
I said, now what's Mitzi doing
hiding all the way in the back?
Hi, darling, you know the Fishers?
- Bobo.
- Good to see you guys again.
Well, I need to mingle.
I'm not being a very good hostess.
She's quite a little spitfire, isn't she?
So when did you all become members?
Members?
Nothing beats flying out to Palm Springs
twice a month for a little golf.
You know, I met Merv Griffin last time.
Hell of a guy.
We're never selling to Kroehner.
Well, then you're idiots. No offense.
It must have been fun
having a sister growing up.
"Fun" is not the word I would choose.
God, I can't believe
I never even met her before.
It's for the best. Sarah has no boundaries
and she's completely self-involved.
She would have only disappointed you.
Whatever.
You know that I think if you work hard...
you can be good
at whatever you put your mind to.
Yeah, sure, Mom.
How long is my house gonna be like this?
This is a big job. You got to be patient.
Patient? Where was patient when
you told us to buy a house full of mold?
I'm not a licensed house inspector.
You knew that.
Besides, you should call that realtor
and sue her for nondisclosure.
Shit. I got to head down to Long Beach
before rush hour.
No, come on, baby. You got to stay here.
You have to deal with this.
I got to pick up a body.
That's what pays the mortgage.
- Let David do it. What are you, his lapdog?
- Shut up!
- Just shut up. Can you do that for once?
- Rico, calm down, man.
She's just stressed with the mess
and two kids. Who wouldn't be?
- Cut her some slack.
- Thank you.
I'm out of here.
He can be a real pain.
Yeah, you don't have to tell me that.
Don't you worry. We'll get this fixed
just as soon as we can, okay?
The house was built in '59 for Frank Sinatra.
If these walls could talk.
I don't even want to know what all happened
on that coffee table. Come on.
You see what you boys are missing?
This is the life.
Don't hurt yourself, Bobo.
Would you be a dear darling and fix us up
another batch of those frozen margaritas?
Thank you, lovely.
- She's single.
- I'm engaged.
Yeah, well, I'm married.
There are swimsuits and towels and such
in the cabana out by the pool.
Pepper used to be
captain of the USC swim team.
Now he's trying to make it as an actor.
God, they're a dime a dozen, aren't they?
- Why are we here?
- To have fun.
My God, boy, I don't even think
you know what that is.
Listen to me. I understand...
exactly how exhausting and depressing
running a small business like yours can be.
Your only job today
is to forget about all that.
Enjoy.
Well?
We should at least try to have a good time.
What's up?
I was just leaving you some laundry.
Thanks.
You got room for me in there, boys?
I want you to know Matt Gilardi
never got to come here.
Is that supposed to make us feel better
about how he harassed us?
And how you're continuing to harass us?
Please, you boys have got to get over
this victim mentality.
Finally, the sales pitch.
That's considerably more money
than we've ever offered you.
You know, this was our father's business.
It's not something
we can just walk away from.
David, nobody is asking you to leave.
We like things just the way they are.
We like our lives just the way they are.
Honey, it may be tomorrow,
it may be 10 years from now...
but y'all are going under.
It is just evolution.
Kroehner's got the size, resources,
market share, lobbyists in Washington.
What do y'all got? Your pride.
Car's leaving for the airport in five minutes.
Y'all better hurry.
Should we have taken that offer?
- What?
- Why are we doing this?
Fighting so hard? Maybe she's right.
Maybe this is a losing battle.
Don't tell me you got seduced by a hot tub.
So she dangled a fat check in front of us.
So the fuck what?
No, we can't give up, David, all right?
We can't. We just can't.
No medication?
Have you told Brenda yet?
Yeah, like a week ago.
- How'd she take it?
- You know Brenda.
She pretends to be stronger than all of us.
Hey, you.
I didn't think you were coming.
Well, you know me.
I can't sleep without you.
You're the only thing in my life that works.
Oh, shit.
My client.
I got to get this.
Oh, God, I love you so much.
I just love you.
I enjoyed the sermon.
So do you have to work today?
- Not really.
- Good.
I thought you had to prepare
for a hearing tomorrow.
I'm thinking about blowing that off.
The guy's totally guilty.
I'd rather spend the day with you.
Hey, I didn't know you were here.
That's a big-ass lie.
I saw you staring in church.
- Who's this?
- This is Taylor.
- Taylor, this is my friend Ben.
- Hi.
So how are you?
- You want to go over and say hi?
- No, we'll be late for the movie.
You guys not talking now?
We had an argument. It's nothing.
Taylor, come on. Got to go.
I miss you.
Me, too.
Who's she?
Her uncle's an old friend of mine.
Roll onto your back, nice and slow.
I'm sorry. Happens to me all the time.
It's nothing I haven't seen before,
so don't be embarrassed.
Who said I'm embarrassed?
Easy.
Feels good.
- Like that?
- Yeah.
Harder.
Oh, God! Yeah.
Yeah, faster.
Come on.
So thanks.
Can I make another appointment
for next week?
I don't think that's such a good idea.
Okay.
I don't think I can see you again.
Well, thanks again.
Take care.
I know your brother doesn't want me to,
but I have to see him.
I really don't think you should
put yourself through that before the service.
There's been no restoration.
Seeing him like this
could make it that much worse.
I spent over half of my life with that man.
I slept with him every night for 20 years.
Please just let me see him.
I have to see him once more.
I want to see him.
All right.
Look at you now, you fucking pig!
I'm glad you're dead!
I'm fucking glad!
And I hope it hurt like hell!
He can't hit me anymore...
can he?
Thank you.
I could really love you, David Fisher.
Not quite the response I was hoping for.
- I can't say I'm entirely surprised.
- I'm sorry.
I'm really sorry.
I like you a lot, Ben.
But?
But I'm in love with someone else.
I see.
And when exactly
were you planning on telling me this?
It's not that I haven't enjoyed
being with you. You're a great guy.
You're a catch, and he's not even available.
I don't want to lie to you.
I just thought
it would be a good idea for me...
to get involved with someone else,
you know, healthy.
Great.
So next you'll be saying
you just want to be friends.
Well, now I know why you never wanted
to introduce me to your family.
Organic herbs and spices
from the Farmers Market.
- Is Claire here?
- No, I don't know where she is.
If I'm going to avoid traffic,
I'm going to have to miss her. Damn.
Tell her this is for her knowledge corner.
She'll know what to do.
I'm sure she'll appreciate that.
Okay, Ruth, what the hell is going on?
What's going on?
You waltz in here after 20 years...
insulting my cooking,
getting drunk with my boyfriend...
filling my daughter's head
with all kinds of ideas...
and reminding my sons
of traumatic events in their lives.
Jesus Christ, the boy
was gonna lose his virginity sooner or later.
And Fiona is a great woman.
Very compassionate...
He was molested!
He was a horny 15-year-old
who couldn't believe his good luck.
I shouldn't be surprised you won't take
any responsibility. You never have.
Okay, that's what this is about.
When mother died, someone had to step up.
Someone had to take care of Nanny,
but you just did as you pleased.
You never let anybody help you.
God forbid anything should interfere
with you feeling sorry for yourself!
If that's what you need to believe
to justify your own selfishness...
What do you want me to say, Ruth?
I want you to apologize.
Fine. I apologize!
Does that make it any better?
No, because you had more fun than I did!
Fun?
The only man I ever loved...
died when I was 21.
The children I so desperately wanted
were impossible...
because my ovaries are dry as stone.
And I'm a terrible artist...
but I surround myself with people...
who have talent that I will never realize.
It's all hard, Ruth.
We just made different choices.
I'm sorry. I didn't know about the ovaries.
It's fine.
I'm sorry about Nathaniel.
Thank you.
I got your flowers a couple of months later.
I was in Peru.
Let me finish mopping.
- How's the writing?
- Good, really good.
Somebody had a good day.
It's just this woman...
who was screaming at the mangled body
of her dead husband who used to beat her.
Can you imagine hating someone that much
and staying with them for 20 years?
What makes you think people stay together
because it makes them happy?
Promise me...
if things ever start to go nutso,
or you ever hate me...
that we'll deal with it.
We won't just cover it up?
Don't worry, I'll be long gone
before you can hate me.
I don't think I could ever hate you.
Besides, we know what we're doing here.
Absolutely.
So what did you do today?
Not much.
A client.
What do you think you're doing?
Releasing your cock
from the prison of your pants.
- Do you think that's wise?
- Do you want me to stop?
It's just me.
Are you busy?
I was just chatting
with this friend of mine online.
I found some things
I thought you might want.
What things?
Just some things
I've collected over the years.
- Are these all mine?
- Yes.
No way.
Oh, my God, it's Blue Pajama Man.
I totally forgot about him.
I kept everything you ever did.
Mom.
Where's Nate?
He had left home already.
What about Dad?
He was probably working.
My God.
Right. In the most polluted port in America?
- Nothing could live here.
- Really?
That makes me sad.
It looks so beautiful at night.
Yeah, so is Burbank.
- You're gorgeous, you know that?
- Shut up!
So why haven't you
ever talked to me before?
I was intimidated. You're very intimidating.
You're full of shit.
Of course they pick
a goddamn boat this year...
so nobody can leave
before Parkinson's jerk-off speech...
about what a fucking great company
this is, right?
Right.
Like anything that self-important fuck says
could change the fact...
that we'll be filing for bankruptcy
by the end of the year.
You're new here, aren't you?
Yeah, about six months.
I'd start sending out my résumé now...
unless you're one of
Parkinson's fucking inner circle.
If you are, then...
fuck me, right?
- Do you wanna go and get another drink?
- Please.
Excuse me. I guess I'm the asshole...
for telling the fucking truth!
Shit!
That's not fair.
You suck!
- Morning.
- God, you scared me!
- You're up early.
- I slept like a fucking baby.
- Yeah, me, too.
- After the night we had?
The sheer exhaustion factor alone.
Yeah, I gotta say it was worth the wait.
- So does this mean the ebb is over?
- For now.
Want a coffee?
- Wow, this is kind of racy.
- Hey, no!
- Is that your novel?
- I don't know what it is yet.
- When do I get to read it?
- When it's ready, if it's ever ready.
Well, who's Christina?
Is that your fictional alter ego?
Your Holden Caulfield?
She's more like my Humbert Humbert.
You know, my Constance Chatterley.
She's like Hermione
in the Harry Potter books.
What would you rather have:
Some overly-educated gasbag like Trevor...
or a semi-literate fuck machine like me?
Come on.
That's a no-brainer. No pun intended.
I have something for you.
I know it's small, but it is a diamond.
You think I care about diamonds?
Will you marry me, Brenda Chenowith?
Haven't we done this already?
- What?
- I love you.
Good.
Something else?
I thought we could announce it to my family
at dinner tonight.
I was gonna ask my mom to make dinner.
Look, we have to do this sometime.
- And what about your family?
- Are you kidding?
They are way too consumed
in their own divorce drama to even notice.
Let's just not tell them and say that we did.
And what about Billy?
You know, I haven't really talked to him
for a while.
Why don't I make you pancakes
from scratch...
like a good little wife-to-be...
before I fuck your brains out
and send you to work?
How about we skip the pancakes?
Shit, you're already dressed?
Am I holding you up?
No, not really.
- Well, maybe a little.
- You've got the best shower.
Mine's just this weird bolt
sticking out of the wall that sends out mist.
It takes five minutes just to get wet.
How come I always stay here?
It's time for you to stay at my place.
- After that great recommendation?
- It's nice.
MGM built it back in the '30s
to house starlets.
Great parquet floors,
unbelievable molding...
but some idiot did an '80s retro-fit
and ripped out all the good fixtures.
I'll be happy to stay at your house,
fixtures aside.
You know, I never thought
you'd call me back after that second date.
Why?
Because I never think
the good guys are gonna call back.
Who said I'm a good guy?
Well, it's been three weeks.
That's usually a sign.
Check with me in three months.
I'll tell you how you're doing.
Good morning. Sit. Have some breakfast.
- Most important meal of the day.
- Good morning, dear.
Apparently.
How would you like your eggs?
Surprise me.
Now, this is good, yeah?
All together for breakfast.
Well, I see it's Good Neighbor Day
at the Fisher house.
David, was that a new friend I saw
leaving this morning?
- Mom, please, I'd rather not discuss...
- What does he do?
He's a public defender.
You should have asked him in for breakfast.
We'd all like to meet him.
Yes, bring him next time.
I would like to meet him.
Where's Nate?
We have an intake in 15 minutes.
He called from the car.
There was an accident on the 10...
and he told me to ask everyone
to be here for dinner tonight.
He has something important to tell us.
A big family dinner.
It will be fun.
Everybody had gotten off...
and the lights were on.
You could see what a dumpy little boat
it actually was...
And he just wasn't there.
- It's hard to believe right now, but time...
- I got dumped at a party in college once...
it was the Kappa Sig luau...
by some guy whose name
I don't even remember.
The sun was coming up, and I just...
sat there staring at this stupid pig carcass...
in my stupid Hawaiian-print sundress.
Mrs. Collins, have you thought about...
Matthew and I had been married
for almost 20 years.
Can you believe that?
I met him when I was barely 20.
And now he's dead...
and I'm just that much closer to it.
I'm sorry, we don't allow smoking inside.
Please put that out. It's against
California State Law. We could be fined.
Sorry.
How long will it take?
It depends on the kind of service
you were thinking of.
Length of visitation,
should you choose an open casket...
My husband was dredged up
from Long Beach Harbor...
with a propeller slice
halfway down his body.
Closed casket, then.
How much? I can't spend a lot of money.
We're probably looking at around $7,000.
That seems like a lot.
It's about average, maybe a little less.
We'll take care of everything...
make it as easy on you as possible.
I need to think about this.
- Of course. Let us know what you decide.
- I can show myself out.
- Shopping around for the best deal.
- Isn't that her right?
She's wasting our time.
Oh, dear, when did you get so dried out?
You must be thirsty.
The flowers are lovely, Sarah. Thank you.
I just cut them on my walk
through the canyon.
Don't worry, you didn't put me out one bit.
This kitchen is exactly the same.
Yes, it is.
You look well.
- So do you.
- I only just got your messages.
I was in Madrid.
I wanted to stay through Christmas,
but I ran out of money.
The reason I was calling was because...
What I want to say was that...
I forgive you.
You're the only family,
apart from the children, that I have left.
I didn't want more time to go by
with our not talking.
We're sisters. We shouldn't be estranged.
I took this course called The Plan.
You did The Plan? You're shitting me.
That is so great, Ruth. You, of all people.
- What's that supposed to mean?
- No, it's very brave.
I know it couldn't have been easy for you.
I did it back in the '70s...
when it was still called
"Transitional Focus."
Before Ernst Vollhoffer was busted
for tax evasion...
and sold it to the Canadians.
That's when it became The Plan.
I met Vollhoffer at a party once...
and he came on to me.
But I'd just dropped acid for the first time...
and I thought he was
some Mayan death priest...
who wanted to cut out my heart
and throw it into a pit.
So I blew him off.
Catherine Collins has decided to go
with the Unger mortuary.
Well, I guess that's that.
Unger is a Kroehner home, Nate.
Yeah, so?
So Kroehner charges about double
what we do.
That's the third funeral
Kroehner has stolen from us...
since Mitzi Huntley came to visit.
They are after us again.
Look, now you're just being dramatic.
This from a man
who basically lives in denial.
Look, Stan told me at lunch last week
that Kroehner stock had taken a nosedive.
Why would they be wasting their time
with small potatoes like us?
Maybe because you told Mitzi
to shove her good-faith gesture up her ass?
I told you guys that Kroehner wasn't
gonna let up, but nobody listens to me.
Not now, Federico. We needed that funeral.
How else are we paying for the fine
from the DCA?
That's $1,800 we don't have right now.
I asked you to check the proof.
No license number on a billboard
opposite a retirement home...
makes us look like amateurs.
We cannot afford to be vulnerable.
I'm not comfortable starting
on this woman's perm until I have a photo.
Any idea when that's supposed to arrive?
I have an inspector coming to my house
this afternoon.
It came in this morning
and I put it in her file...
which you would know
if you bothered to look.
I'm calling Catherine,
and I'm going to lowball Unger.
Even if we cut our profits in half,
we can show Kroehner we're willing to fight.
Hey, Mom.
Hello.
Who are you?
I'm your Aunt Sarah.
Claire, the Goddess
is clearly manifesting through you.
- It's very obvious.
- Thanks.
I thought you were dead.
The skin like milk. Treasure it while it lasts.
Ruth, you told your daughter I was dead?
Shame on you.
I never told her any such thing.
Claire, why would you lie about that?
Whenever you talked about her,
it just sounded like she was dead.
I just assumed.
Well, I've made a miraculous recovery.
Tell me exactly what you were feeling
when you made this.
- Boredom.
- Liar.
There's anger and yearning...
passion, resentment of the status quo,
some jealousy of it, as well.
Not the most original perspective,
but it's authentic.
I love this!
The technique: Very precise, very adult.
The death of romance
in a regimented, artificial world.
Lovely.
Actually, I found it in the garbage.
My dad threw it out after a funeral.
I thought it looked cool, so I kept it.
You're an artist, Claire.
- Please.
- I'm not saying you're any good, yet.
But if you focus and live fully,
you could become something.
If you're lucky and don't self-destruct.
- Right.
- You've got an eye.
You see through the veil.
It's a blessing and a curse.
Okay.
You need something red
in your relationship corner...
like a red velvet pillow.
Something bordello-ey.
You're resisting the carnal.
That's your mother rubbing off on you.
Put a plant in your knowledge corner
if you want to grow into your potential.
What is that, Feng Shui?
You're kidding, right?
You can drop the generic apathy crap.
That's just laziness.
You're more than that and you know it.
Hey, baby, sorry I'm late.
Rico, we are fucked.
It's definitely mold.
I told you so. See, this is why
Julio's cold don't get any better.
Maybe you've got structural damage
in your chimney...
and water's leaking in.
When the rain starts, it'll get worse.
Okay, what can we do?
I got to rip this all out
and see what's going on inside.
Maybe we can patch things up,
maybe it'll be bigger than that.
- How much is it all gonna cost?
- You got serious water damage here.
It could be anywhere from $3,000
to maybe $7,000 if your roof is involved.
Excuse me one second.
- We can get Ramon to fix it.
- Fix it?
He didn't even spot it. You heard him.
There's serious water damage.
- Any idiot would know that.
- Don't call my cousin an idiot.
Okay, no, I'll call you an idiot...
because you were too cheap
to get a real inspector initially.
I'm an idiot?
Maybe it wasn't the smartest idea
to go to your sister...
and buy this piece-of-shit house
behind my back. Now you think about that.
- God damn it!
- What happened?
I just got snapped running a red light.
We are living in a motherfucking
police state, I tell you what!
Any calls while I was at lunch?
The Unger mortuary called to say the funeral
we poached from Fisher & Sons...
- is going back to them.
- You're kidding!
We undercut them by almost $500.
Well, now they've undercut us
by nearly $1,000.
Oh, my God, I love this!
They're cute,
but they are such bad businessmen.
Well, they won't last.
What have I got tomorrow?
Your trainer at 9.00...
then back-to-back performance reviews
from 1.00 to 5.00.
Cancel everything except the trainer.
All right.
I think I need to spend a little quality time
with the fabulous Fisher boys.
- Ruth, do you have any tarragon?
- All the spices are in that cabinet.
Well, now I know what to get you
for Christmas.
Dean & Deluca have these
fantastic spices in test tubes.
Very mad scientist. You'll love them.
- What are you making?
- I'm not sure yet.
I'm making Chicken Kiev.
I bought all the ingredients
to make Chicken Kiev.
So we'll make Chicken Kiev.
Have tarragon, will travel.
Tarragon is not listed in the ingredients.
Following instructions?
Where's the creativity in that?
Cooking is alchemy, not a science.
It is if you want it to turn out right.
Is there anything I can do to help?
Smell.
This vodka is from Poland. You will like it.
Ruthie, why don't you join us?
Thank you, but I'll wait till dinner is served
to have a glass of wine.
Okay, suit yourself.
Where you learning to speak the Russian?
It's a long story.
Let's just say there was a man involved.
Of course there was.
Claire, when you are finished
mixing the herbs in...
you want to form the butter into little logs.
Eight of them.
No, not at all. It's deliciously sensual.
Wash your hands first, Claire.
You wild woman.
Nikolai is adorable and hot.
The sex must be spectacular! Good for you.
Oh, my God!
You're all grown up,
but your face is still 12 years old.
David, you remember your Aunt Sarah?
Yes, hi.
I'm sure you couldn't forget her if you tried.
- David, have some vodka.
- Yes.
This is so surreal.
The engagement dinner.
I feel like I'm in a training movie from
the '50s about how normal people behave.
Well, my family's anything but normal.
Compared to mine,
they're the fucking Cleavers.
Just relax and enjoy yourself, all right?
You look gorgeous.
- Everybody loves you.
- Not your mother.
All you have to do is sit back...
and be the center of attention, all right?
Come on.
So, Linda, what do you do?
- It's Brenda.
- Forgive me, I'm drunk.
It's all Nikolai's fault.
He's been plying me with vodka
since the moment he arrived.
I'm a massage therapist.
She's an amazing massage therapist,
and she's writing a novel.
You are?
I'm writing something.
We'll see what it turns into.
Have you ever read
Charlotte Light and Dark?
- Yes.
- Well, she's Charlotte.
- I didn't know that.
- What is this, Charlotte light and who?
It's this book
about this girl who's being analyzed...
and she's smarter than the people
who are analyzing her.
And so she's constantly fucking with them.
It's hilarious.
You continue to be drawn
to strong, complex women. Bravo.
Mom, this dinner is delicious.
I think it's a little sour, myself.
- No, it's one of the best you've ever made.
- It's great.
- Here, more vodka?
- Please.
I had a lover who was Russian.
He once told me...
that vodka was to Russians
what therapy is to Americans.
Something habit-forming and expensive...
that totally destroys your ability
to lead an authentic life.
Sorry, both my parents are shrinks.
And that was very painful for you.
But if it weren't for that, you probably
wouldn't be writing your novel, right?
Speaking of creativity, is everyone aware
of the budding artist in the family?
- No, who?
- You haven't seen Claire's work?
Shame on you. She needs feedback...
even if it's just so she can learn to ignore it.
Claire, I know so many creative people
from all over the world.
You must come stay with me
in Topanga Canyon and meet some of them.
Okay.
What?
Now's as good a time as any, I guess.
The reason that I wanted us all
to get together for dinner tonight...
is that Brenda and I
have decided to get married.
Good, married. This calls for a toast, yes?
Absolutely!
There you go. Something to toast with.
To romantic love:
Both the inspiration and utter folly of it.
Thank you. That's really kind.
- Cheers.
- Congratulations.
So, Linda, I never would have taken you
as the type to get married.
Show us the ring.
Yeah, don't blink.
You might miss the diamond.
- Here you go.
- No, it's beautiful.
It's lovely. Ruth, did you see?
Yes, very nice.
I'll go put on some coffee.
Is there any more of that vodka left?
Ruthie, what's wrong?
Your son is going to marry.
This is a beautiful thing.
It's been a long day, that's all. I'm fine.
Just look at this mess.
Don't worry. I'm going to help you clean up.
Thank you.
God, there is so much emotion to navigate
where family is concerned.
Vicodin anyone?
No, thanks, I'm fine.
Okay, what's the deal
with me going to Topanga Canyon?
Mom totally freaked.
No one ever told you? Oh, my!
It seems I'm a terrible influence.
David and I went to stay
with Aunt Sarah one weekend...
and I kind of lost my virginity.
How old were you?
- Fifteen.
- How old was she?
- I'm not sure. 20-something.
- She was 32.
Oh, my God, that's totally fucked up!
Your mother has never forgiven me
and she never will, no matter what she says.
Granted, there was an awful moment
when David was lost...
but he was found completely unharmed
in the canyon the next morning.
Damn, I miss out on all the best stuff
in this family.
Well, that was a disaster.
Your mother hates me more than ever now.
- She does not hate you.
- Come on, Nate.
Who cares if she does?
I'm just glad it's over.
On to the next. We have a whole lifetime...
of tense and uncomfortable
family gatherings to look forward to.
- Hello?
- Hey, where have you been?
We had kind of a family dinner.
My brother's getting married.
- Are you drunk?
- Yes.
My mother's boyfriend kept pouring vodka.
I'm gonna have
such a fucking headache tomorrow.
Your mom's boyfriend was there?
So how come you didn't invite me?
Because I knew it would be excruciating...
and I wanted to spare you?
I wish you were here, or me there.
Why?
So we could have hot sex
and then fall asleep together.
You could always come over here.
I'm too drunk. I shouldn't drive.
Or I could come over there.
I'm too drunk. I shouldn't drive.
Take some aspirin before you go to bed,
and vitamin C. Drink lots of water.
I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Okay, bye.
Hey, Mom.
Here, let me help you.
You ready?
You should have used
your grandmother's ring.
God knows your brother
isn't going to use it.
And who knows
if Claire will ever settle down.
That ring was for you.
- I didn't even know about it...
- You are the firstborn...
and probably the only opportunity
for grandchildren that I will ever live to see.
Mom, you never even told me about it.
What I think this is really about
is you don't like Brenda.
That's not true.
I just don't want you to get hurt.
Is she pregnant?
No, she's not.
But she is the woman I love, Mom.
You may not think she's the best person for
me, but I do, and I need you to accept that.
We're glad you came back to Fisher & Sons.
You gave me the best price.
That's the only reason I'm here.
That other place wanted me to sign
some waiver before I could see the body.
Do you want me to do that, as well?
Mrs. Collins,
I don't think you want to go through that.
Your husband's body
experienced severe trauma.
It's beyond restoration.
Restoration? No, I don't want him restored.
What's the point?
Perhaps we should choose a casket.
You think it's a day like any other.
What you don't realize
is that anything can happen.
And then it does.
It happens.
And there's so much left unsaid.
And it was all just wasted time.
I just want somebody
to help me understand.
Just to help.
Can you help me?
The first line of C. S. Lewis'
A Grief Observed is:
"No one ever told me grief felt so like fear."
I'll get you a copy. I think it will help.
It's going to be okay.
No, it's not.
What's wrong?
Doesn't it ever get you down?
Sure, all the time.
You know, I keep thinking
it's going to get easier, but it just doesn't.
No, it doesn't.
It just gets more familiar.
Hello? Anybody home?
Hello?
Don't you two look sharp!
Just as sharp as a couple of little tacks.
Miss Huntley. What can we do for you?
Well, for one thing, you can call me Mitzi.
Stop being so goddamn formal.
Now, how come y'all have not thanked me
for this snazzy casket wall?
Maybe I should thank you for selling
our beautiful and highly profitable caskets.
Seeing as how you've bought up, absorbed,
and shut down every other competitor?
What the fuck do you want?
What the fuck do I want?
I want you boys to come the fuck with me
on a little fucking trip.
What do you fucking say?
What kind of fucking trip?
Well, see, now that's a secret.
- We're very busy.
- Well, I suggest you get unbusy.
I understand Fisher & Sons...
forgot to put their license number
on a recently-printed advertisement.
We've already been fined for that.
So you can just turn around...
No, I'm not talking about the billboard.
I'm talking about the two-column incher
in the funeral pages of the LA Times.
It's run three weeks in a row now.
So that is three fines that you can avoid
if you just...
drop the attitude and come with me.
Federico, hi, it's David.
Nate and I are tied up
for the rest of the day...
so we need you to pick up the Collins body
from the Unger mortuary.
- You can't just expect me to drop...
- Federico, I need you to do this.
Fine.
Collins? You bad boy.
That wasn't very nice of you,
stealing a funeral from us.
- One that you stole from us first.
- Oh, please.
This whole self-righteous
chip-on-the-shoulder thing...
kind of worked for Russell Crowe
in Gladiator.
But you don't have the special effects
to back it up.
You get a big kick out of yourself,
don't you?
And you are a big stick-in-the-mud,
aren't you?
Lighten up.
The whole purpose of this trip
is to have fun.
Just ask Bobo.
I said, now what's Mitzi doing
hiding all the way in the back?
Hi, darling, you know the Fishers?
- Bobo.
- Good to see you guys again.
Well, I need to mingle.
I'm not being a very good hostess.
She's quite a little spitfire, isn't she?
So when did you all become members?
Members?
Nothing beats flying out to Palm Springs
twice a month for a little golf.
You know, I met Merv Griffin last time.
Hell of a guy.
We're never selling to Kroehner.
Well, then you're idiots. No offense.
It must have been fun
having a sister growing up.
"Fun" is not the word I would choose.
God, I can't believe
I never even met her before.
It's for the best. Sarah has no boundaries
and she's completely self-involved.
She would have only disappointed you.
Whatever.
You know that I think if you work hard...
you can be good
at whatever you put your mind to.
Yeah, sure, Mom.
How long is my house gonna be like this?
This is a big job. You got to be patient.
Patient? Where was patient when
you told us to buy a house full of mold?
I'm not a licensed house inspector.
You knew that.
Besides, you should call that realtor
and sue her for nondisclosure.
Shit. I got to head down to Long Beach
before rush hour.
No, come on, baby. You got to stay here.
You have to deal with this.
I got to pick up a body.
That's what pays the mortgage.
- Let David do it. What are you, his lapdog?
- Shut up!
- Just shut up. Can you do that for once?
- Rico, calm down, man.
She's just stressed with the mess
and two kids. Who wouldn't be?
- Cut her some slack.
- Thank you.
I'm out of here.
He can be a real pain.
Yeah, you don't have to tell me that.
Don't you worry. We'll get this fixed
just as soon as we can, okay?
The house was built in '59 for Frank Sinatra.
If these walls could talk.
I don't even want to know what all happened
on that coffee table. Come on.
You see what you boys are missing?
This is the life.
Don't hurt yourself, Bobo.
Would you be a dear darling and fix us up
another batch of those frozen margaritas?
Thank you, lovely.
- She's single.
- I'm engaged.
Yeah, well, I'm married.
There are swimsuits and towels and such
in the cabana out by the pool.
Pepper used to be
captain of the USC swim team.
Now he's trying to make it as an actor.
God, they're a dime a dozen, aren't they?
- Why are we here?
- To have fun.
My God, boy, I don't even think
you know what that is.
Listen to me. I understand...
exactly how exhausting and depressing
running a small business like yours can be.
Your only job today
is to forget about all that.
Enjoy.
Well?
We should at least try to have a good time.
What's up?
I was just leaving you some laundry.
Thanks.
You got room for me in there, boys?
I want you to know Matt Gilardi
never got to come here.
Is that supposed to make us feel better
about how he harassed us?
And how you're continuing to harass us?
Please, you boys have got to get over
this victim mentality.
Finally, the sales pitch.
That's considerably more money
than we've ever offered you.
You know, this was our father's business.
It's not something
we can just walk away from.
David, nobody is asking you to leave.
We like things just the way they are.
We like our lives just the way they are.
Honey, it may be tomorrow,
it may be 10 years from now...
but y'all are going under.
It is just evolution.
Kroehner's got the size, resources,
market share, lobbyists in Washington.
What do y'all got? Your pride.
Car's leaving for the airport in five minutes.
Y'all better hurry.
Should we have taken that offer?
- What?
- Why are we doing this?
Fighting so hard? Maybe she's right.
Maybe this is a losing battle.
Don't tell me you got seduced by a hot tub.
So she dangled a fat check in front of us.
So the fuck what?
No, we can't give up, David, all right?
We can't. We just can't.
No medication?
Have you told Brenda yet?
Yeah, like a week ago.
- How'd she take it?
- You know Brenda.
She pretends to be stronger than all of us.
Hey, you.
I didn't think you were coming.
Well, you know me.
I can't sleep without you.
You're the only thing in my life that works.
Oh, shit.
My client.
I got to get this.
Oh, God, I love you so much.
I just love you.
I enjoyed the sermon.
So do you have to work today?
- Not really.
- Good.
I thought you had to prepare
for a hearing tomorrow.
I'm thinking about blowing that off.
The guy's totally guilty.
I'd rather spend the day with you.
Hey, I didn't know you were here.
That's a big-ass lie.
I saw you staring in church.
- Who's this?
- This is Taylor.
- Taylor, this is my friend Ben.
- Hi.
So how are you?
- You want to go over and say hi?
- No, we'll be late for the movie.
You guys not talking now?
We had an argument. It's nothing.
Taylor, come on. Got to go.
I miss you.
Me, too.
Who's she?
Her uncle's an old friend of mine.
Roll onto your back, nice and slow.
I'm sorry. Happens to me all the time.
It's nothing I haven't seen before,
so don't be embarrassed.
Who said I'm embarrassed?
Easy.
Feels good.
- Like that?
- Yeah.
Harder.
Oh, God! Yeah.
Yeah, faster.
Come on.
So thanks.
Can I make another appointment
for next week?
I don't think that's such a good idea.
Okay.
I don't think I can see you again.
Well, thanks again.
Take care.
I know your brother doesn't want me to,
but I have to see him.
I really don't think you should
put yourself through that before the service.
There's been no restoration.
Seeing him like this
could make it that much worse.
I spent over half of my life with that man.
I slept with him every night for 20 years.
Please just let me see him.
I have to see him once more.
I want to see him.
All right.
Look at you now, you fucking pig!
I'm glad you're dead!
I'm fucking glad!
And I hope it hurt like hell!
He can't hit me anymore...
can he?
Thank you.
I could really love you, David Fisher.
Not quite the response I was hoping for.
- I can't say I'm entirely surprised.
- I'm sorry.
I'm really sorry.
I like you a lot, Ben.
But?
But I'm in love with someone else.
I see.
And when exactly
were you planning on telling me this?
It's not that I haven't enjoyed
being with you. You're a great guy.
You're a catch, and he's not even available.
I don't want to lie to you.
I just thought
it would be a good idea for me...
to get involved with someone else,
you know, healthy.
Great.
So next you'll be saying
you just want to be friends.
Well, now I know why you never wanted
to introduce me to your family.
Organic herbs and spices
from the Farmers Market.
- Is Claire here?
- No, I don't know where she is.
If I'm going to avoid traffic,
I'm going to have to miss her. Damn.
Tell her this is for her knowledge corner.
She'll know what to do.
I'm sure she'll appreciate that.
Okay, Ruth, what the hell is going on?
What's going on?
You waltz in here after 20 years...
insulting my cooking,
getting drunk with my boyfriend...
filling my daughter's head
with all kinds of ideas...
and reminding my sons
of traumatic events in their lives.
Jesus Christ, the boy
was gonna lose his virginity sooner or later.
And Fiona is a great woman.
Very compassionate...
He was molested!
He was a horny 15-year-old
who couldn't believe his good luck.
I shouldn't be surprised you won't take
any responsibility. You never have.
Okay, that's what this is about.
When mother died, someone had to step up.
Someone had to take care of Nanny,
but you just did as you pleased.
You never let anybody help you.
God forbid anything should interfere
with you feeling sorry for yourself!
If that's what you need to believe
to justify your own selfishness...
What do you want me to say, Ruth?
I want you to apologize.
Fine. I apologize!
Does that make it any better?
No, because you had more fun than I did!
Fun?
The only man I ever loved...
died when I was 21.
The children I so desperately wanted
were impossible...
because my ovaries are dry as stone.
And I'm a terrible artist...
but I surround myself with people...
who have talent that I will never realize.
It's all hard, Ruth.
We just made different choices.
I'm sorry. I didn't know about the ovaries.
It's fine.
I'm sorry about Nathaniel.
Thank you.
I got your flowers a couple of months later.
I was in Peru.
Let me finish mopping.
- How's the writing?
- Good, really good.
Somebody had a good day.
It's just this woman...
who was screaming at the mangled body
of her dead husband who used to beat her.
Can you imagine hating someone that much
and staying with them for 20 years?
What makes you think people stay together
because it makes them happy?
Promise me...
if things ever start to go nutso,
or you ever hate me...
that we'll deal with it.
We won't just cover it up?
Don't worry, I'll be long gone
before you can hate me.
I don't think I could ever hate you.
Besides, we know what we're doing here.
Absolutely.
So what did you do today?
Not much.
A client.
What do you think you're doing?
Releasing your cock
from the prison of your pants.
- Do you think that's wise?
- Do you want me to stop?
It's just me.
Are you busy?
I was just chatting
with this friend of mine online.
I found some things
I thought you might want.
What things?
Just some things
I've collected over the years.
- Are these all mine?
- Yes.
No way.
Oh, my God, it's Blue Pajama Man.
I totally forgot about him.
I kept everything you ever did.
Mom.
Where's Nate?
He had left home already.
What about Dad?
He was probably working.
My God.