Monday, May 23, 2005

Season 3

Last week, Arrested Development, the funniest show on television, was given a third season. The show has performed moderately in the ratings, but is a favorite among critics and award groups. Let's face facts, Fox currently has the best comedies (Arrested Development and Family Guy) and the best thrillers (24). In terms of entertainment, I don't see how any other network can touch Fox.

I don't know if I've ever extolled the virtues of Arrested Development, but in order to compel you to watch season 3 and maybe buy the DVDs, I would be remiss if I didn't do it now. In terms of casting, this show has hit it on the head. Every single character is matched with an actor who imbues the character with ease and subtlety. Michael Cera as George Michael is perhaps the epitome of awkward teenager, and Will Arnett's GOB struts about with wholly misplaced bravado. In terms of the style of comedy, it plays mostly off the members of the Bluth family's complete inability to think of anyone but themselves and their pathetic attempts at preserving the status they no longer have. They are plagued by envy, greed, rivalry, vanity, and a healthy dose of incest, but best of all don't realize any of it. Except for Jason Bateman's Michael Bluth, the entire family is deeply flawed. If you don't watch the show, you must not have eyes, ears, or that part of your brain that controls enjoyment.

Fox is airing reruns this summer. I implore you, nay I beseech you, do yourself a favor--watch the show and get arrested.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Bravo my friend, I applaud your genuine concern for saving a television show. But I must ask you, are you saving the right one? Without a doubt if there is one show that needs to be brought back it is Sex and the City. Quite possibly the greatest entertainment achievement of all time. This show had it all, humor, hilarity, comedy, funnyiness, laughter. It also had sluts, skanks, whores, and lots of sex. The diversity of the show is what truly drew fans into this genius show that shouldve never been ended...ever.

Sex and the City for life!

Anonymous said...

I share your adoration for Fox, but your analysis begs one question: what discussion of modern television is complete without a mention of The O.C., the network's true crown jewel?

Caleb Nichol is spinning in his grave...