Parenthood–The show handled Adam and Kristina’s explanation of Asperger’s to Max beautifully, and Monica Potter in particular did a great job. But it was the appearance of Amber’s teacher and Sarah’s one-time boyfriend Mr.Cyr that made us jump for joy a little this week. Lauren Graham and Jason Ritter have fantastic chemistry, and the idea that Sarah would go to an English teacher for feedback on her writing (turns out she’s a playwright!) makes sense. We really want Amber to graduate soon so these two can get back together.
The Chicago Code — We didn’t know how creator Shawn Ryan’s style would translate to network TV. His previous FX series, The Shield and Terriers were both amazing, but in terms of language and content, they never would have gotten past Standards & Practices. Well, his new cop show on FOX manages to be both gritty, and suitable for the 9 PM audience. Chicago Code focuses more on the power structure of the police department, including Jennifer Beals (Flashdance) as Teresa Colvin’s, Chicago’s first female superintendent. She’s been absolutely great, as has Jason Clarke as Detective Wysocki. (In a clever touch, Wysocki is offended by swearing, so people keep it clean around him.) But this week, Delroy Lindo’s crooked Alderman Gibbons stole the show. Lindo’s been so good for so long, and it’s really great to see him with a prominent role on a network series. Gibbons is working every angle, and while we haven’t really seen how far his reach goes, it’s clear that he can’t be trusted. This week while he was at the barber shop, a young man tried to rob the place and got shot in the process. Gibbons became the kid’s benefactor while he was in the hospital, bringing him a flat-screen and an Xbox, and visiting every day. But Gibbons had figured out that it wasn’t an attempted robbery, but rather a hit. Gibbons pumped the kid for information so he could track down the person dumb enough to come after him, and then he dealt with it. It was a great showcase for Lindo, and some flashbacks even gave us insight to his past and his obsession with demolishing Cabrini Green. Gibbons is getting to be one of TV’s most interesting villains, and we can’t wait to see what he’s got up his sleeve. And next week has a guest appearance from Lost’s Dr. Marvin Candle!
great summary. I love Raising Hope and Modern Family. I can’t wait to see the breakout Kings you have wetted my appetite.