Parenthood

NBC, Thursdays 10/9 Central

Mar 02, 2010 Issue #30 - Winter 2010 - Vampire Weekend By Lily Moayeri

Twenty-one years after the movie and one aborted attempt at a television show in 1991, NBC is giving Parenthood a second try. The 2010 version has infinitely more potential with updated storylines and (major) star power. The genuineness and grit of the original, however, is intact.

The Braverman family is headed by the overbearing and controlling Zeek (Craig T. Nelson) and Camille (Bonnie Bedelia), who are intent on keeping up appearances. Adam (Peter Krause) is desperate for normalcy while his kids spiral out of control. Sarah (Lauren Graham) moves home with her two troubled children after a failed marriage. Julia (Erika Christensen) focuses on her career while her househusband raises their daughter. Crosby (Dax Shephard) the ne’er-do-well, avoids commitment, until one is imposed on him in the form of a son he never knew he fathered.

Nothing about Parenthood feels contrived. With a wealth of colorful characters, storylines drive individually and weave together nicely. Nuanced performances from veteran actors, and even more engaging ones from the young cast, make for a strong ensemble. With this much authenticity, Parenthood is more real than reality TV. (www.nbc.com/parenthood)

Author rating: 8/10

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Average reader rating: 4/10

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