I’m Dancing As Fast As I Can

When she shows them a rough cut, fatalistic Jean is angered by the false optimism and vehemently voices her objections to Barbara’s choices. The response triggers a deep depression in Barbara, who relies on Doctor Kalman, her therapist of many years, and an increased dosage of Valium to see her through the crisis. She finally reaches a turning point when she realizes Kalman’s treatment has been ineffective and admits her dependence on drugs is controlling her life. Her effort to quit cold turkey results in a rapid physical, mental, and emotional deterioration fueled by Derek’s refusal to let her seek medical help and his alcohol-driven determination to control her completely.