Ep 1. Beauty and the Beast

Alan Shore and Denny Crane return to the courtroom in the season four premiere of Boston Legal, titled "Beauty and the Beast." The episode centers around a case involving a young woman named Kelly Nolan, who is suing a plastic surgeon after a procedure left her disfigured.

As the trial begins, Alan and Denny find themselves pitted against opposing counsel, played by guest star John Larroquette. The two sides spar over the definition of beauty and the role of cosmetic surgery in society.

Meanwhile, the firm's new associate, Whitney Rome, ends up handling an unusual divorce case involving a couple who want to split but are still in love. The case brings up questions of the importance of marriage and the lengths people will go to stay together.

Back in the courtroom, things take a surprising turn when Kelly's fiancé is called to the stand. His testimony reveals a shocking secret about the couple's relationship and raises doubts about Kelly's motives for the lawsuit.

Throughout the episode, the characters explore the themes of appearance, self-worth, and the societal pressures to conform to certain standards of beauty. The show deftly balances the serious subject matter with the witty banter and humor for which Boston Legal is known.

Overall, "Beauty and the Beast" sets the stage for what promises to be another entertaining and thought-provoking season of Boston Legal.