For the first time this decade, a plethora of new and exciting TV shows have found themselves premiering right around the same time.
Much like sports or music, TV shows seem to go through a dark period where no matter what the cast or story is, they can’t seem to get the DNA down right. Here’s a look at three new shows that have found a way to perfect the formula.
Sitcom – “The Michael J. Fox Show”
Thursdays at 9:30 p.m. on NBC
My Opinion: Funny. Smart. Creative.
There was a time when it seemed as if Michael J. Fox would never return full-time to the entertainment industry. Of course, who could blame him? His struggles with Parkinson’s disease have been well documented. On the other hand, it’s not as if he completely shied away from the spotlight. Fox had seemed to find himself a niche with guest starring roles which would then turn into Emmy nominations. Between 2009-2013, Fox had been nominated five times for Outstanding Guest Actor. Thankfully, now he’s back for good.
Michael J. Fox plays Mike Henry, a retired news reporter who spent the previous five years dealing with the effects of Parkinson’s disease. Always a comedic genius, Fox handles the workload of this sitcom with little struggle. His reactions and intended body humor are a must see.
Although riddled with one-liners and senseless gags, the Michael J. Fox Show is much more than that. It’s a show about hope and the fight to survive in this cold world. Everyone knows someone similar to Mike Henry, and that’s what will keep the viewers checked in.
Issues That May Arise: Pointless gags that could be used more effectively for a long-term gain.
Drama – “The Blacklist”
Mondays at 10:00 p.m. on NBC
My Opinion: Entertaining. Mysterious. Captivating.
It has been far too long since James Spader (“Boston Legal”) has found himself a role that only he’s able to play. Spader has a rare quality about him that forces the audience to suspend reality long enough to emotionally invest in his characters despite how far fetched they may appear. James Spader is arguably one of the greatest television actors of our generation. His work on “Boston Legal” and “The Practice” only lay claim to his greatness. “The Blacklist” shall solidify it.
Although this show is about the United States government apprehending dangerous criminals, it’s Spader’s trademark oddball personality and his complex relationship with Megan Boone’s rookie FBI character which will keep audiences wanting more.
Issues That May Arise: The show could become too formulaic.
Cable – “Masters of Sex”
Sundays at 10:00 p.m. on Showtime
My Opinion: Daring. Compelling. Unbelievably Fascinating.
Mainly known as a writer/producer on HBO’s hit miniseries “The Pacific”, Michelle Ashford brings us the real-life story of William H. Masters, and Virginia E. Johnson who pioneered the field of sexual research during the mid-late 20th century.
This show is not for the faint at heart. It is however an interesting look at the stigma surrounding sex 50-60 years ago. With how promoted the topic is nowadays, it’s hard to believe that half a century ago, there was next to no research done on the topic. This show is going to bridge that gap.
In this adaptation, Emmy-winner Michael Sheen “The Special Relationship” plays William Masters, a bold, gynecologist who believes he holds the key to advancing society on the subject of sex. Masters, charming even during what should be moments reserved for skepticism and questions, pulls off his role with a wonderfully believably performance. If the first episode is any indication, Showtime will soon be asking Dexter who?
Lizzy Caplan “Party Down” rounds out the second half of the research team as sexually hungry Virginia E. Johnson. Caplan, who is known manly for comedic roles has adjusted just fine to the more emotionally demanding Johnson. Barring any unforeseeable events, Masters of Sex, will be a launching pad for Caplan, who has found herself on the bad end of a show ending prematurely more than once.
Issues That May Arise: Currently nothing.
Shows that just missed the cut:
Sleepy Hollow (Fox)
Derek (Netflix)
Agents of Shield (ABC)