Ep 2. Big Chills

Melinda Gordon, the protagonist of Ghost Whisperer, is an empathic medium able to commune with the lingering spirits of the dead who are unable to move on from this world. The show revolves around her helping them resolve their unfinished business and depart for the afterlife.

In season 4, Melinda and her husband Jim Clancy have relocated to a new small town, Grandview, after the tragic loss of their friend and fellow ghostly aid, Professor Rick Payne. In the second episode of the season, titled "Big Chills," Melinda finds herself dealing with a new ghost - the spirit of a high school student named Becca.

Becca's ghost is seeking Melinda's help in discovering the truth behind her death by apparent suicide. Melinda finds that the investigation into Becca's death is hampered not just by the usual reluctance of the living to believe in the supernatural, but also by a mysterious lockdown order issued by the town's military base.

As Melinda investigates Becca's death, she uncovers a web of secret experiments conducted on the base, which may have led to Becca's untimely end. Along the way, she also has to contend with the ghost of Sergeant Paul Adams, a soldier who died while on a mission and is now seeking Melinda's help to ensure his late wife and son receive a package of his personal effects.

Melinda and Jim's quest for the truth takes them to the military base, where they meet Major Edward Dorset, the commanding officer. Dorset is initially hostile to Melinda's inquiries, but a shared experience of a ghostly presence in his home helps to soften his attitude towards her.

The investigation ultimately takes Melinda to a house where Becca had been held captive, along with other unidentified girls. She is able to communicate with the ghost of a young woman who had been one of these captives before escaping and reporting the matter to the authorities. From her, Melinda learns that Becca had also managed to escape, but was tragically killed in the process.

Melinda presents her findings to Major Dorset, who ultimately agrees to launch a full investigation into the matter. Meanwhile, Sergeant Adams is able to receive the closure he had been seeking, and the ghosts of Becca, as well as the other girls, are finally able to move on from this plane.

"Big Chills" showcases Ghost Whisperer's trademark mix of spookiness, emotional resonance, and social commentary. The episode deals with issues of abuse, trauma, and cover-ups, while also exploring the challenges of military life and the after-effects of war. Despite the somewhat heavy themes, the show does not skimp on the usual quirkiness, humor, and heartwarming moments that fans have come to expect.

At its core, "Big Chills" is a story about the power of determination and compassion. Melinda's empathic abilities allow her to connect with the ghosts and help them find peace, while her persistence and courage enable her to uncover the truth and fight for justice. The episode also touches on the importance of community and support, as Jim, Melinda's friend Delia, and the other residents of Grandview band together to help Melinda and the restless spirits.

Overall, "Big Chills" is a solid episode that showcases the strengths of Ghost Whisperer's storytelling and characters. The intriguing mystery, emotional weight, and eerie supernatural elements make for a compelling watch that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.