When I think of the ABC network I think of ‘Lost’, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. I think hugely popular drama series that are worth every point earned in the ratings. In terms of comedies, ABC is not the first network that comes to mind but perhaps that’s about to change. I caught the first episode of the new comedy ‘Help Me Help You’ Tuesday night on ABC and I have to say, it was surprisingly entertaining.
‘Help Me, Help You’ is about a therapist and his group of behaviorally challenged patients.
The pilot episode begins with a young guy named Dave getting turned down for a promotion after his boss confronts him about his computer-solitaire addiction. Dave didn’t join group therapy because he’s addicted to mindless card games, though. He joined because after his boss broke the bad news, Dave jumped out of an office window. Believe me, its funnier than it sounds. His attempt at suicide failed when he landed on his boss who had just stepped out onto the sidewalk.
Therapist, Dr. Bill Hoffman (Ted Danson) tries to ease Dave into the process of sharing his feelings by introducing him to the rest of the patients. There’s the closet-case (Jonathan), the socially-idiotic girl (Inger), the addicted-to-therapy-nutcase (Darlene) and the rage-guy (Michael). Dr. Hoffman describes them all as “normal people” but they’re anything but.
The twist of the show is that Dr. Bill Hoffman appears to have just as many problems as his patients. He’s so far in denial about his pending divorce that after a few too many drinks, he climbs into bed with his almost-ex-wife and her boyfriend. His wife (guest star Jane Kaczmarek) doesn’t need to say much to clue us in as to why their marriage has failed but its fun to watch them fight none-the-less.
In true psychologist form, Bill views everything through the eyes of his practice, including his own life, which has resulted in some pretty messed up relationships. Obviously it was the catalyst that ended his marriage but it’s also caused a really strange dynamic between him and his daughter.
In terms of comedies, this show has everything. The characters are quirky but not unlikable. Dave is the passive but seemingly normal guy whose presence in group seems to help accentuate the oddities of the other patients without over doing it. Dansen plays his role as the messed up therapist perfectly.
Is it as mind-blowingly funny as ‘The Office’? No, of course not but it was entertaining and easy to follow which means its good enough for a Tuesday night show.
