Ep 5. It's Not My Birthday
- TVMA
- February 22, 2010
- 42 min
-
7.7 (318)
Patty Hewes and Tom Shayes are trying to get information about the Tobin family's accounts from an informant. Meanwhile, Ellen Parsons is still reeling from her encounter with Claire Maddox and tries to focus on her work. The episode opens with Ellen's sister filing for custody of Ellen's niece, and Ellen tries to figure out how to help without losing her job at the firm.
The informant turns out to be dangerous, and Shayes is injured during the exchange. As they review the information obtained, they discover that the Tobin family may be involved in a cover-up of a murder that occurred years ago. However, their investigation is hindered when they learn that the family has hired a powerful law firm to prevent any further disclosures.
Meanwhile, Patty is dealing with her own problems as her son is arrested for possession of drugs. She struggles with whether or not to use her connections to get him off the hook. She also continues her battle with her ex-husband, who is determined to take control of their son's trust fund.
As the episode progresses, tensions rise within the firm as each member is forced to confront their own moral dilemmas. Ellen must decide whether or not to use the information she has learned to help her sister in court. Tom Shayes struggles with his injuries and whether or not to continue his work with the firm. And Patty must confront the fact that her own actions may have contributed to her son's troubles.
The episode reaches a climactic point when the Tobin family takes extreme measures to prevent any further investigation by the firm. Ellen, in particular, finds herself in grave danger. As the episode ends, it becomes clear that things are not always what they seem and anyone can be a pawn in the game of power and money.
Overall, Damages season 3 episode 5, "It's Not My Birthday," is a tense and riveting installment in the series. The well-written script and strong performances from the cast keep the action moving and the suspense high. Fans of the series will not be disappointed.
