Modern Family – Pilot (S01E01)
ABC
If you didn’t see Modern Family last night and you’re reading this review of the episode, stop. Go watch it, then come back. This show is officially my favourite new comedy of the year. And, it’s all because of one scene. Seriously, if you didn’t see it, go watch it now. The rest of you, follow me.
The Lion King scene was far and away the best comedic scene of the season. Of course, it’s the first few weeks of the season and with more comedy on TV this year, I could be wrong. But I’m not. I didn’t see it coming, and it was fabulous.
I thought I was over the mockumentry style (Thanks for overdoing it NBC!), but I was wrong. I think being les overtly mockumentary-ish was the best way to avoid the pitfalls of the genre. It feels like a modern sitcom, not an American version of a Ricky Gervais idea. I don’t know how long this show can keep up its momentum, but based on this episode, I’ve picked this show to be a lock for next year.
First episodes always have a lot of work cut out for them in introducing every character. It sometimes leads to a disjointed feeling in the show and a less than stellar episode. But, even with a pretty large cast (3 families of at least 3 members each), the fact that they are all related really brought the show together. The casting has a lot to do with this with everyone from Al Bundy himself to Julie Bowen (Ed, Boston Legal, and filled out with comedic regulars Sophia Vergara (The Knights of Prosperity, Hot Properties), Ty Burrell (Back To You, Out Of Practice) and Jesse Tyler Ferguson (The Class).
I hope when Better Off Ted returns, it’s paired with this show because they seem to be matched perfectly. ABC really has a great night of comedy (except for Hank which can’t seem to buy a well written episode) on its hands.
Spoonfuls (Thoughts in Smaller Portions):
1. Watch out for the kid
Manny seems like he’s going to be an unexpected source of comedy on the show. Already he’s shown his comedic timing and I think they should use him as much as possible. He’s a great addition.
2. The Gay Couple
Sorry, but The Lion King scene is so funny that I can’t help but refer back to it. Cameron is the dynamic boyfriend and like Manny stole the limelight from the more well known actor in the scene.
Good shows have great moments. Let’s see how this fares in the coming weeks. What did you think of the show?
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