Saturday, April 02, 2005

Sitcom Realism

Most Realistic Show Ever: Roseanne (if you ignore the last three seasons). Family only stays together because they can't afford not to (and can't even trade on their looks to get of there).

The mother (Roseanne) has no discernible skills and bounces from job to job. Her only real talent (like most people) is complaining

The father (Dan) is repeatedly struck by layoffs and instead of "knowing best" he grabs a beer and becomes emotionally distant.

Daughter #1 (Becky), has looks, potential, and also a secret wish to be a failure. She promptly trades in all her potential to marry the local loser.

Daughter # 2 (Darlene), is a sensitive artist trapped in the intellectual confines of her small town. No one supports her. She becomes embittered, largely repeats all the mistakes her older sister made.

Youngest son (DJ): No one cares about him. Most realistic portrayal of a youngest child ever.

Sister of Roseanne (Jackie): Co-dependant adult sibling who's clearly emotionally damaged, as she only attracts bad men. When she finally gets pregnant the father "does the right thing" and marries her. Marriage proves to be unhappy.

Realistic end (almost) of season: Once they win the lottery (which was their only real hope) the family promptly goes their separate ways.

Least Realistic Show: Full House.

Three bachelors raise three girls in San Francisco and nary an eyebrow or innuendo is raised over the situation. Have mercy!