The New Normal Season 1 Episode 2

Sofa’s Choice 

With this second episode of the show, we get a real look at what The New Normal has in store for us. Pilot episodes are worked over and over, for weeks trying to iron out the issues the show may have (doesn’t always work) but they don’t fall under the same working schedule of the show. That schedule is a key factor in what makes a good show work so well. 

This show needs to be about Rocky and Jane, with everyone else as background characters living this pregnancy story. This isn’t to say that David, Bryan, and Goldie aren’t likable funny people. They are all those things, but they don’t steal the scene. The leads need to step it up and take the comedic reins of this show. Shania (the daughter) had a great comedic bit in the background masquerading as a Kennedy from Gray Gardens, priceless. 

David and Bryan do have a steady relationship, which is at the heart of the show. Their flashback of how they met was cute, but not that funny. It really wasn’t meant to be funny though, but more of a way to quickly show the spark the two of the have lost in their relationship. But wouldn’t wanting a kid be a spark in their relationship? *Another Gray Gardens joke, Andrew could only go as a cat from Gray Gardens for Halloween. See, its these random side jokes about a 70s documentary that people forget about.

The New Normal needs to define itself outside of the basic plot of the show. So far, it is just moving through the paces with bits of humor thrown in so the show can be called a comedy. Everyone on this show can hold a joke (when they are given one) but again, the leads are just pushing the basic “let’s have this baby” plot forward. This plot should be the excuse for following these people around. Define their world more than just a wealthy couple who lives in L.A. This is why Jane and Rocky steal the show and need to be the starts if this formula stays the same. Everyone can hold their own, but no one is really being given the opportunity to shine, expect for Rock and Jane. And the real comedic star of this episode, Shania. 

Rating: Pass 

Original Air Date: 9/11/12 

On NBC, 9:30/8:30 central