Northern Disclosure: Episode Summary – S1E4 “Dreams, Schemes, and Putting Greens” with Barry Corbin
Introduction
In the fourth episode of Northern Disclosure, hosts Jeanine Turner and Rob Morrow delve into the intricacies of the Northern Exposure episode titled “Dreams, Schemes, and Putting Greens.” This episode features an exclusive conversation with Barry Corbin, the acclaimed actor who portrayed Maurice Minnifield, the multifaceted patriarch of Cicely, Alaska. Together, the trio explores behind-the-scenes anecdotes, character development, memorable scenes, and the emotional depth that made Maurice a beloved figure in the series.
Revisiting Episode 4: “Dreams, Schemes, and Putting Greens”
Jeanine Turner initiates the discussion by expressing her excitement about rewatching the episode with Barry Corbin. She shares her affection for Maurice's character, highlighting the emotional layers and humor that Barry brought to the role. Turner recounts specific lines and scenes that resonate deeply, such as Maurice’s witty remark, “Warm liquor gives me gas” (03:20) and Shelly's humorous complaint, “It's yuck. Marie, stop doing that. It's yucky. It makes me feel weird” (04:19).
Barry Corbin's Insights
Joining the Cast
Barry Corbin shares his journey to becoming Maurice, emphasizing his initial impressions and the audition process. “[Barry Corbin]: I read the script and thought it was a very good script. I figured they were seeing every middle-aged man in Hollywood for these parts” (15:37). His unique approach during the audition—performing push-ups to showcase his improvisational skills—ultimately secured him the role.
Character Development of Maurice
Corbin delves into the complexity of Maurice Minnifield, discussing the balance between Maurice's tough exterior and his underlying sensitivity. He reflects, “Maurice never got beyond where he saw a woman as a full human being” (24:30), illustrating the character's internal conflicts and emotional struggles, especially concerning his relationship with Shelly.
Memorable Scenes and Lines
The conversation highlights several standout moments from the episode:
- The heartfelt apology about socks between Jeanine and Rob (04:19).
- Maurice’s humorous lines, such as his comment about warm liquor (03:20).
- The poignant moment when Maurice sings at Shelly’s wedding, showcasing his vulnerability despite his macho demeanor (26:27).
Corbin also discusses his collaboration with co-stars, particularly Michael Paul Chan, and shares amusing anecdotes about on-set interactions, like the scene where he improvised about stealing money (43:19).
Behind-the-Scenes Dynamics
Filming Challenges
The hosts and Barry Corbin discuss the technical aspects of filming, particularly challenging scenes like the rain on the golf course. Rob Morrow recounts being drenched during the shoot, while Corbin humorously admits not remembering the scene (33:52). They explore how practical effects and real-time performances contributed to the authenticity of the show.
Relationships Among Cast and Crew
Corbin emphasizes the camaraderie on set, describing his role as a father figure to the younger cast members. “We were the youngsters, but you were always like a father figure in loving and kind and helpful” (68:18). This nurturing environment fostered a sense of family, which translated into the chemistry seen on screen.
Direction and Production Changes
The episode sheds light on the evolving production dynamics, especially during the transition when original creators Joshua Brand and John Falsey left the show. Corbin recounts his concerns about the new direction under David Chase, who later gained fame with The Sopranos. He notes, “After the show was canceled, he was on the television interview show, and I saw the show. He said, I never liked the show. It was too precious” (39:29), highlighting the creative tensions that arose during this period.
Reflections on Memories and Their Impact
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the nature of memories—both personal and collective—and their influence on the actors' experiences. Turner muses, “Memories are really beautiful things that can be haunting as well, but they're beautiful” (64:25). Corbin adds depth by distinguishing between good and bad memories, acknowledging that some are ephemeral while others linger painfully (63:47). Rob Morrow shares his fascination with memory gaps, noting how certain scenes leave little to no recollection, making viewing the show feel like watching someone else’s life (65:57).
Conclusion
The episode of Northern Disclosure offers a heartfelt exploration of Northern Exposure's fourth episode through the lens of Barry Corbin's experiences. The discussion not only revisits memorable moments and lines but also delves into the emotional and technical facets that made the show a classic. Through candid conversations, the hosts and Corbin reflect on the essence of their time together, the enduring impact of shared memories, and the timeless charm of Northern Exposure. As they conclude, Turner beautifully ties the theme of memories back to their professional relationships, encapsulating the enduring bond formed during their time on the show.
Notable Quotes from the Episode
- Jeanine Turner (03:07): “Can I just shoot off a couple of great lines?”
- Rob Morrow (03:27): “I liked that outfit they got you in—the brown vest and the yellow shirt.”
- Barry Corbin (15:37): “I read the script and thought it was very good. I figured they were seeing every middle-aged man in Hollywood for these parts.”
- Jeanine Turner (21:07): “You always had such emotion underneath your bravado.”
- Barry Corbin (24:30): “Maurice never got beyond where he saw a woman as a full human being.”
- Jeanine Turner (26:27): “It was a profound line and life, isn’t it?”
- Rob Morrow (61:15): “The silence, it's the most important. It's more important than what you're saying.”
- Jeanine Turner (64:25): “Memories are really beautiful things that can be haunting as well, but they're beautiful.”
Time Stamps Reference