Six Feet Under: Final Season Review

Alan Ball's unique compulsive series about death and living up to it had such a knockout first season that it was always its own toughest act to follow. Despite some dramatic dips, however, the singular tone of authentic tragic absurdity remained consistent. And for this last season the team really went for it, arcing towards a beautifully constructed resolution. Brenda (Rachel Griffiths) and Nate (Peter Krause) miscarry and marry, David (Michael C. Hall) and Keith (Mathew St. Patrick) take on parenting, Ruth (Frances Conroy) gets a grip, Billy (Jeremy Sisto) goes nuts again and finally Claire (Lauren Ambrose) sets forth in the world. The death of a leading character is the most important event, having a transforming effect on the lives of all the others. The finale montage of Episode 12 is almost unbearably moving and thrillingly executed, as we see the future fates of all these wonderful characters, realised by a remarkable ensemble.