Reviews

This show has so much going for it--and I'm glad F/X has chosen to continue this ride. (Sorry, I just couldn't resist that little pun.) The writing is incredible and the characters are are so well developed that viewers can relate to them--perhaps even respect them, in spite of their obvious flaws, weaknesses, and challenges that draw us to them. The cast is incredibly talented--each actor is strong enough to be a lead and carry their own story-line but, as an ensemble, they're even stronger and they definitely bring their best performance to each and every episode. I was very skeptical about Katy Sagal ever selling me on a character other than "Peg Bundy", and I admit, I was dead wrong! She IS Gemma! (RIP Peggy....) There are so many reasons this show has viewers hooked--If I tried to list them, I'd run out of space! It only took one episode for me to be a major fan. The only thing wrong with the show is that the season is way too short!! This is a strong show with equally strong subject matter and delivery, and F/X schedules it accordingly-so if you're easily offended (or if you have children/teen viewers), perhaps you should opt for another channel (and DVR/TIVO it for later viewing).

I admit, I loved this show because I loved the original musical, but I was sad to see it go away to be kept in some dust-covered bin in a Hollywood storage vault! Regardless of all my friends teasing me because they thought it was a "corny show", I couldn't wait to see each episode! (I was raised by my grandparents so perhaps that's why I've always been drawn to the more reserved, wholesome, and yes, sometimes "corny" stuff.) I wish some studio exec would recognize that there are plenty of networks out there now (ie: Hallmark, ABC Family, Nic....) that have the perfect format for shows like this. If there had been more than just the "Big three" networks around when the show was produced, it would have had a better chance. But it's sad to think of it wasting away when it could be entertaining and influencing a new (and not-so-new) audience.

I remember watching this movie as a kid (who was an aspiring figure skater even before I saw it) and would LOVE to see it aired again, and often. Though the skating was not stellar, the plot definitely stands the test of time. It's still as relevant today as when it was made. Actually, I think this movie is worthy of a re-make. With the special effects and editing capabilities and the advances in the sport of skating today, it could be even better! I still go through a box of tissues watching this movie! So, if you're watching it with someone who picks on you for crying over sappy movies, you may want to send them to the store while you watch this one.