Why Sally Field is so great on "Brothers & Sisters"

I didn't write my thoughts about Sunday's episode of "Brothers & Sisters" yet so want to do that now. The focus was split between Kitty's pregancy and Sarah's custody battle with a little adulterous Tommy and pill-popping Justin peppered in.
But what I kept noticing, and feeling, was the strength Sally Field as Nora brought to the episode. I'm one of six children. There are five Walker children. Moms of broods that big just have a certain way about them and this is why Sally, as Nora, reminds me of my mom.
When Sarah's estranged husband, creepy Joe, comes to pick up the kids after Sarah loses primary custody, Nora shows up - unannounced - for the transfer of the kids. She was just there and didn't have to say much - her face said it all. And when Kitty was getting morning sickness, Nora just knew she was pregnant and even before it was confirmed, had her nose deep in a book of baby names.
Sally's performance is pitch-perfect. It's the best work of her career. It's no wonder she won the Emmy and that Rachel Griffith was nominated. These two women are the cream of the crop in what is an excellent ensemble.
AfterElton.com is doing some terrific recaps of each episode. It's a must-read for any fan.
Greg Hernandez has covered the entertainment industry for the Daily
News since 2001. He's considered a bit odd by some for his obsession
with box office numbers, has been known to camp out near the kitchen
at premieres for first crack at the hors d'oeurves, and Greg's never
seen a red carpet he didn't want to stroll down.
Comments
The subtle drop to a sitting position on the stairs after the children were gone is just one example of how great an actress Rachel Griffiths is. I've loved her since Muriel's Wedding.
Posted by: Nick in Des Moines | November 2, 2007 11:48 AM