In the pilot episode of "The Paper Chase", Ford is introduced as a rather cocky and self-assured son from a very rich and well-connected family of lawyers. However, her in "The Man Who Would Be King", Ford is uncharacteristically imperfect. In fact, he's about as close to crazy as anyone you'd ever see in this series.
Ford's problems begin when his father (Don Porter) comes for a visit at school. Obviously, Ford feels very pressured to do well in front of his dad--much of it is because his dad is VERY demanding and much of it is because of his family tradition for excellence. And, after he blows it in Kingsfield's class, things only continue to spiral downward--until he falls off the deep end and appears to be having a nervous breakdown.
This was an interesting show because normally rich, pampered kids are the objects of scorn on TV and in movies. Here, for once, you have some empathy for the young man and understand that people in his situation have pressures as well. Well worth seeing--not just to watch Ford flip out but because it's well done (as usual).
Ford's problems begin when his father (Don Porter) comes for a visit at school. Obviously, Ford feels very pressured to do well in front of his dad--much of it is because his dad is VERY demanding and much of it is because of his family tradition for excellence. And, after he blows it in Kingsfield's class, things only continue to spiral downward--until he falls off the deep end and appears to be having a nervous breakdown.
This was an interesting show because normally rich, pampered kids are the objects of scorn on TV and in movies. Here, for once, you have some empathy for the young man and understand that people in his situation have pressures as well. Well worth seeing--not just to watch Ford flip out but because it's well done (as usual).