ron3-2 Reviews

Modern Family (2009–2020)

MTM Show for the 2010s

[10/10 · 3 March 2011]

I've been watching Modern Family since the beginning, and while most TV comedies have me staring at the screen with an immobile expression (if for some reason I'm even watching), while Modern Family is good for several LOL moments each and every week.

I also very much like Chuck Lorre comedies in general (i.e., 2-1/2 Men, Big Bang for two)--they're very intelligent, exceptionally well written, and quite funny. But you don't really get involved in the characters of any particular show: It's simply a view from the outside looking in, watching what's happening on screen for a very enjoyable 30 minutes each week.

I find Modern Family different: the situations and story lines are often hilarious, but underneath there's still a very warm and human story, and you actually find yourself caring about the characters. For those who remember the old Mary Tyler Moore show, Modern Family has the same feeling, it's just updated for today, and a bit more sophisticated and "real" all around than any '80s comedy could be.

The Chicago Code (2011)

Great fun, shot mostly on location in one of the most photogenic cities in the country

[9/10 · 15 February 2011]

There have only been two episodes so far, but I love the overall direction of the story line, as well as the writing.

I spent the first 6 years of my life in Chicago, and returned many times after that until I was around 30 or so. It's now been a couple decades plus since I've been back. Nonetheless, the city is instantly recognizable here--even though it seems to be shot so far mostly on the south side, and I've spent all my time there as a kid and young adult on the north side.

Chicago has a very distinctive visual personality made from a mix of fairly unique residential architecture, back alleys and of course, the omnipresent El, threading it's way through, and connecting together, various areas of the city. That so much of every episode is shot on location really helps give this story about the mix of corrupt politics with cops + robbers an anchor in reality--even if some reviewers here consider the plot line itself a bit light on reality, or even disrespectful to the real memory of the officers with whom they themselves served.

While I can't comment on that aspect, so far I love it for what it is--a thoughtful, fun and well acted action police drama with an exciting visual style. This one should be a winner for Fox.

Ron H