COUGAR TOWN "Stand" Strong

Article first published as COUGAR TOWN "Stand" Strong on TheTVKing.

Cougar Town wrapped up its fifth season on the air last night on TBS with "We Stand a Chance." It may not be a big, dramatic finale, nor does it end with a cliffhanger, as renewal is uncertain, but it is still a terrific installment of the friends-as-family show. A piece of exciting news affects just about everyone in the group, though their lives continue normally, as this isn't the type of show that goes for the ridiculous stunt.

 The story begins when Jules (Courteney Cox) borrows Laurie's (Busy Philipps) pee, since Ellie (Christa Miller) drugs Jules shortly before a physical. What's amusing about "We Stand a Chance" is that Jules acts like a guilty criminal even when no one is suspicious of her or really cares if she's breaking the law. It takes a situation often depicted for more nefarious purposes, and it applies it to normal suburban life, making for a silly, light tone.

The doctor soon calls Jules, though, to tell her the pee test indicates she's pregnant. After Ellie points out to Jules that it isn't her pee that has been tested, Jules realizes that Laurie and her son, Travis (Dan Byrd), are now expectant parents. She wants to break the news to them in a positive way, unsure of how they will react, being young and unmarried, but a fight comes between them, making it hard for Jules to find a good time to bring it up.

I love how Jules's concern is only that Travis and Laurie will be happy. She doesn't obsess over being a grandma or fret over the sex her offspring and friend engage in. While Jules can be selfish, when there's something so important on the line, she cares as much as anyone else.

Cougar Town is about a family. Not necessarily a biological one, though some of the players are related, but one built by choice. It's a group of friends as close as any relations, and while that may not be a unique premise on television, the continued way in which it warmly executes this premise makes it feel different. There's a deeper level of emotion behind the situations, and when the entire gang is there at the time Laurie and Travis finally learn the news, offering their support, it's a terrific moment for the show.

On any other sitcom, Laurie and Travis would end the episode broken up or upset, but Cougar Town avoids the false, forced drama. They have a disagreement while helping out Andy (Ian Gomez) and it's a serious one, but after getting a little advice from Grandpa Chick (Ken Jenkins), Travis makes up with Laurie. Again, love is a primary theme, more than laughter for its own sake, and the pregnancy is greeted joyously by all.

The other two characters Laurie's pregnancy affects most, besides the soon-to-be parents and Jules, are new grandfather, Bobby (Brian Van Holt), and step-grandpa Grayson (Josh Hopkins) (though, to the show's credit, the word 'step' is never uttered). They may be Jules's husband and ex-husband, but they're also friends, and decide to compete with young punks in a break dancing competition to hang onto their youth.

Again, Bobby and Grayson are not taken over the top in acting their age, but rather, their attitude comes from an authentic place. They lose sorely to the teenagers, as anyone should realistically predict, but it doesn't kill their spirits. They know who they are and they like themselves, which is probably why fans of the show continue to root for them, too.

Tom (Bob Clendenin) is definitely a character worth keeping around. Upgraded to main cast this season, he gets both the beginning and ending gags of "We Stand a Chance." At the start, he wins a Cul-de-Sac Crew trivia game, thus earning the right to pick their vacation spot. Since he loves just being around everyone so much, he chooses to stay home, to everyone's chagrin. Then, later, he recaps the season with his dolls and model of the neighborhood, which is equal parts creepy and hilarious. Tom may be awkward, but he's our awkward, and like the characters on the series are, even if they may be reluctant to admit it, I am fond of his continued presence.

Looking over this review, a lot of it seems mushy and overly sentimental, but this is the type of feeling Cougar Town elicits from its audience. The structure is common but the depth is not, and that's why it's still must-see TV for me, even after being canceled and reborn on cable (without changing a thing). I sincerely hope TBS keeps this thing running for years to come. This episode, great in its own right, could adequately serve as a series finale, but I hope TBS gives the writers a chance to really wrap things up when that time comes so the last episode is more than just adequate.

Cougar Town's fifth season is complete, and now awaits its fate.

I'll Take "All" of COUGAR TOWN

Article first published as I'll Take "All" of COUGAR TOWN on TheTVKing.

TBS's Cougar Town began its fifth season this week with "All or Nothing." I hesitate to call it TBS's, though, because it seems so unlike the rest of the TBS line up, much more toned down and intelligent than the goofy stuff the network usually runs. But then, it wasn't created by TBS, just rescued by it, so I guess TBS deserves credit for keeping a great thing going.

"All or Nothing" picks up an unspecified short time after season four's ending, with time spent making direction connections to last year's finale. For some, this may seem unnecessary and forced, but I get what Cougar Town is trying to do, keep the flow of story going. After all, there are things that happen late last year that we want to see explored, not picking up many months later, and this installments makes sure we know those revelations are still fresh.

The big change the cast is dealing with is that Travis (Dan Byrd) and Laurie (Busy Philipps) are now dating. This means the pair are making out and having shower sex in Jules' (Courteney Cox) house, which Jules has the unfortunate habit of walking in on, repeatedly. It makes everyone, especially Jules, very uncomfortable, and throws off the dynamic of the group.

"All or Nothing" focuses on Jules trying to deal with the situation. She's a trooper, keeping in mind these are both people she really likes and doesn't want to chase them away. As such, she bends over backwards, trying to accept things that just are not acceptable, being 'cool' with what's happening. She doesn't do it very well, but at least she tries.


I'm glad Jules gets her adaptation story, which is absolutely necessary, but I'm disappointed at the very small part Laurie plays in "All or Nothing." She is only seen wanting to constantly be all up in Travis' business, never on the other side, as the friend in the group that she has been. It makes sense that she's totally into the physical stuff, as that is in keeping with her character from earlier seasons. But she is also one of the adults, and has been for quite some time, and we don't see her chemistry with the rest of the cast here. She is the one straddling two difficult roles, and I hope that will be dealt with soon.

This may finally be how Travis joins the larger gang, though. He has always been an outsider at the fringe, occasionally roped into the principal story, but often off on his own. Fans of Cougar Town tend to like Travis, too, and by putting him with Laurie, it gives him a reason to want to hang out with his parents and their pals, strange as that might seem. This could be a good turning point for his character.

Bobby (Brian Van Holt) seems completely unbothered by his son's new circumstances, but then, little ever bothers Bobby, which is part of his charm. This comes into play this week as Bobby begins reaping cash from international sales of Penny Can and Grayson (Josh Hopkins) tries, subtlety at first, to get Bobby to pay his very large bar tab (which has spilled over into a second notebook). Dense as Bobby is, it takes him awhile to figure out what Grayson is asking for, but he does resolve the issue in true, lovable Bobby Cobb fashion.

I am all for any chance to see Grayson and Bobby bond. They share an affection for Jules, Bobby's ex-wife and Grayson's current spouse, but don't have a lot of alone time together. In "All or Nothing," their thread is solely about their friendship, something that has nothing to do with Jules, really, and it's nice to see that explored.

The other plot in this episode involves Stan (Griffin Kunitz) having trouble sleeping after Andy (Ian Gomez) lets him watch Nightmare on Elm Street. This story reinforces the Andy / Ellie (Christa Miller) dynamic, and provides a fun way to work their seldom-seen child into the mix. Plus, another great, amusing resolution at the end.

Not really a subplot in of itself, but we get more Tom (Bob Clendenin) in the episode than usual. His upgrade to regular cast member is well deserved, but I like how Cougar Town doesn't just seek to fold him into the ensemble, as that wouldn't be appropriate for his role. The more that is revealed about Tom, the more creeped out by him the characters and viewers alike get. It'll take some serious adjustment time before Tom is really wanted around by anyone. However, he's still a great character, and well used.

"All or Nothing" makes a slight misstep in the handling of Laurie, possibly because there isn't time for it, but other than that, is a return in keeping with the quality of the rest of the series. I love the group chemistry and the things these characters get up to, and find the jokes in the series quite amusing. All of this continues in fine form.

Cougar Town airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET on TBS.

Cougar Town Sweet and Funny In Its Old Age

Article first published as Cougar Town Sweet and Funny In Its Old Age on TheTVKing.

Cougar Town, having successfully relocated from ABC to TBS this year, wraps up their fourth season with the two parter "Don't Fade On Me; Have Love Will Travel." The Cul-de-Sac gang plans a trip to the Bahamas, but when Jules (Courteney Cox) learns that her father, Chick (Ken Jenkins), has Alzheimers, she convinces her friends to give him the dream trip he has always wanted to Los Angeles.

Surely, it saves quite a bit on budget to film a "location" shoot in the same city the rest of the series is taped in, even though the show is set in Florida. And it does feel a little surreal to watch actors who live in Hollywood walking the streets and commenting on what a weird town LA is. Yet, like most of Cougar Town, it strangely, inexplicably works in a very delightful way.

Except for the shot we get of Tom (Bob Clendenin) actually in the Bahamas. That looked super fake, definitely filmed on the green screen in Travis's apartment. In real life, not in the story. I do believe Tom actually went there, for the sake of the plot.

"Don't Fade On Me" and "Have Love Will Travel" are incredibly moving episodes. Cougar Town is funny, but it also has always handled the emotional side of itself well, not just in "special" episodes or as it ages, as some sitcoms do. Seeing Jules worry about, and take care of, her ailing father it a wonderful thing, forcing her to deal with emotions that she would rather avoid. The way her friends rally around her is awesome.

That's what Cougar Town is about: friends that are like a family. These people love one another and support each other through everything. They are always around, and willing to help. Some of them may say things don't sound that nice, but there's genuine affection behind the front, and they all understand that. So if there's anyone left out there that still thinks the series centers around older women chasing younger man, get over it, please.

The unfortunate thing about this arc would be if Cougar Town chooses to kill off Chick. While not a main character, he pops in on a decently regular basis, and is an important figure in Jules's life. I love Jenkins, and don't wish to see him depart the series, but I also don't think we need that level of grief anytime soon. Eventually, everyone loses their daddy. However, it would be heartbreaking for Jules to do so now. Maybe in the final season, but please, not before.

I love that Cougar Town gets Tippi Hedren (The Birds) to cameo as herself, giving Chick his dream date. It's an unexpected star to bring in, but with recent Alfred Hitchcock film projects, she should be back in the public consciousness, so she's not too far out of mind. Very nice.

Aging has been a theme this season, not just in an episode or two, with an older lady, Anne (Shirley Jones, The Music Man), and her husband moving to the cul-de-sac and joining the show on a recurring basis, the main characters embracing the good parts of getting older, and now Chick showing us the bad. It is an interesting direction for the show to head in, and not an entirely expected one, as most television doesn't illustrate this particular aspect of the human experience very often. But Cougar Town has never been most television, so it's terrific that they've found yet another way to be different.

 The first few seasons of Cougar Town do let Jules have a dating life, but she's married off now, so it's up to other characters to carry the romantic element of the show. Finally, in a move that fans have long been waiting for, but had to wait until Travis aged a bit, Travis (Dan Byrd) and Laurie (Busy Philipps) are together.

This two-parter sees them on a rocky start, not able to find a moment to share their first kiss, and stressing out about it. It seems like fate is against them, and they do soon break up, which is what many a show would do to draw out such a plot. But unlike its peers, Cougar Town finds a way to bring them back together, totally naturally, in a very romantic moment.

I don't know if they will be together for the rest of the show or not; that's impossible to predict. But they are together for now, circumstances be damned. Their issues can be tacked up to their worrying and stress, rather than an actual message that they shouldn't be together, and it just feels right. Laurie provides a logical reason for Travis to stay part of the group, so he's not just the creepy kid hanging out with his mom, and Travis lets Laurie grow as a human being with actual depth. It's a wonderful coupling, and it's oh so satisfying to see it come together.

Bobby (Brian Van Holt) also has a gal, Riggs (Maria Thayer), who unfortunately doesn't go on the trip, though I guess everyone can't be included. He has long been the single one, the constantly lonely man. I do think it's time for him to find happiness, though. If not with Riggs, who I see as a perfectly acceptable candidate, than with someone else. Cougar Town doesn't need to have anyone dating; it's good enough just to focus on hanging out. Thus, hopefully everyone finds love and settles in for another several seasons.

I guess a theme of this article is that Cougar Town does it differently than most comedies, and I can't stress enough that it really does. It has a certain tone and way about itself that sets it apart. The characters and writers are completely comfortable in this direction, and don't seem to second-guess what "sells" on television, which is refreshing. They also do it really well, which allows them to depart from convention without being crucified for it. The television landscape would be much poorer without it, which is why I'm very happy to see that TBS has renewed it for a fifth season.

I've been concentrating on the mushy stuff, but there are also a lot of funny moments in these episodes. Grayson (Josh Hopkins) is stuck on his past, remembering his days as a model in LA. The doctors' office that Jules takes Chick to has many of the Scrubs, another series by the same creator, Bill Lawrence, doctors listed on the sign. Poor Tom is still dumped on, but at least he's finally included. Andy (Ian Gomez) tries to make everyone admit he's Latino, even though he never acts like he is.

In short, Cougar Town continues to be a humorous and heart-warming story of a group of best friends who drink a lot of wine. Exactly what its fans want it to be.

Cougar Town pads over to TBS

Grade: 90%

ABC’s COUGAR TOWN has a strong following and a determined staff, but sadly, that wasn’t enough to keep it on network TV. Luckily, in this modern age, there are other platforms willing to take such gems and keep them going. On January 8th at 10 p.m. ET, TBS premieres COUGAR TOWN’s fourth season.

I have been a big fan of COUGAR TOWN since mid-season one. Once the first few episodes got the titular premise out of the way, and the series settled down into a grown up version of Friends with lots of wine, it became something really special. The question is, how long can it retain this magical feeling?

Season three was helped tremendously by the amount of love and buzz. Creator Bill Lawrence and his cast traveled the country, hosting screening parties at bars on their own dime. They all took to twitter. There were web videos. Bottles of wine were shipped out. All of these things likely contributed to an aura that went beyond the television screen, and energized those who would tune in.

That does set a dangerous precedent. This year, with just a commercial or two to psych fans up, the energy felt down. Of course, one does not expect the people behind a show to keep up such a huge and expensive slate of promotion. But because it made viewers feel like a part of something, there has to be a let down when it’s over.

Which is not to say that season four is bad, by any means, but simply to explain the headspace the precedes such a viewing, and to give a warning to not build up your expectations beyond what they normally are for what is really, at its core, an enjoyable, lovely, and entertaining series.

Recently, I sat down and marathoned the first six episodes of the new run. Many of the same humorous bits were present, and the series has not lost a thing since transitioning onto cable. Each of the characters definitely retained their identities, and the story arcs progressed naturally from where they left off. Most importantly, I laughed quite a lot out loud.

However, for a reason I couldn’t quite put my finger on, the premiere, “Blue Sunday,” just felt like a little bit less than earlier seasons. Later episodes were better, for sure, especially the second one of the season. But the long-anticipated return was just slightly less than I’d hoped for. I emphasize the word slightly.

I won’t give too much away, plot-wise, but here are the basics of the initial set up. The story resumes one week after the season three finale, with Jules (Courteney Cox) and Grayson (Josh Hopkins) getting used to married life. Ellie (Christa Miller) warns Grayson that anything he does twice the first week is a precedent, and he must continue to do those same things for the rest of his life. Obviously, this isn’t a realistic expectation, and what works in one marriage won’t necessarily translate to another couple. Oh, and Jules is mad at Grayson for something he did in her dream.

Meanwhile, Travis (Dan Byrd) seeks to avoid a messy conversation with Laurie (Busy Philipps), so he takes his father, Bobby’s (Brian Van Holt), advice and runs from his problems. After all, if you don’t deal with them, they just go away, right?

The rest of the stories continue on from there. There’s plenty of relationship drama, some insight into the origins of the relationships between the various characters, and a lot of laughs based on running gags. Whether it’s Ellie approving new rules, Laurie acting the slut, Jules being a little too in love with her son, or Andy (Ian Gomez) crushing on Bobby, these things continue to just work.

I don’t know that I noticed the content turning any more adult than it already was. Sure, a title card references greater freedom on cable, and perhaps episode six goes a little bit further with a visual gag than they could have previously done on ABC. But overall, I’d say things stay pretty much the same. Which is what fans have hoped for.

I think fans will be pleased with the return, and find little to complain about. If you loved COUGAR TOWN before, you’ll continue to love it. If you liked it before, you’ll continue to like it. Just be grateful that, like Tom (Bob Clendenin), we have been allowed to continue to look in on this group of funny people for another year.

Cougar Town still absent of Cougar

The latest episode of ABC’s Cougar Town, entitled “Money is King,” finds Jules (Courteney Cox) and Grayson (Josh Hopkins) disagreeing over whether their money should be combined and, more importantly, which house they should sell. Jules drags him to her therapist (Nicole Sullivan), who isn’t much help. Instead, the couple decides that putting off dealing with their issue is the best course of action.

For most couples, this avoidance would be a relationship killer. Somehow, Cougar Town makes it seem as if this will not be the case. Jules and Grayson definitely love each other, and a house won’t stand in their way. They can’t afford to keep both abodes, so a decision must be made eventually. That Jules will win is a sure bet, as she almost always does. This seems more likely not just because of Jules’s personality, but also because a large percentage of Cougar Town’s scenes take place in her dwelling.

The implications of an empty house in the cul-de-sac, as raised in “Money is King,” are many. This opens up the possibility of a new character joining Cougar Town. It’s virtually impossible for an interloper to break into the group dynamic of these main characters. Grayson is eventually able to, but that is mostly because he is with Jules, which will not be an option for a future cast member. There is a stronger likelihood that any new people will be on the B team, like neighbor Tom (Bob Clendenin). Even in that capacity, it’s certainly something to look forward to.

Jules and Grayson and not the only ones facing change. In “Money is King,” Laurie (Busy Phillips) quits working for Jules to concentrate full-time on her cake business. For Laurie, this is a big step, and a great way to demonstrate the continuing maturation of her character. She now has a demanding boss (herself), and has to work hard to earn her income. What’s more, while a couple of years ago this would have seemed an impossible dream for Laurie, there is little doubt now that she can do it! My, how far she’s come! Though, you gotta love the sight gag of her moving her new enterprise into Jules’ little office.

Also, importantly, Travis (Dan Byrd) is the one who encourages Laurie to take this risk. Cougar Town has been taking it slowly between the two of them, which makes sense, given their age difference and Jules’ relationship with both. However, there is no denying the romantic connection there, and how they are good for each other, with her pushing him to loosen up, and Travis pushing back for Laurie to be more serious. They are a perfect complement, and it will not be surprising if the series finally makes a serious go of them as a pair in the not-yet-ordered (but should happen) fourth season.

Finally, Ellie (Christa Miller) goads Andy (Ian Gomez) into playing a prank on Bobby (Brian Van Holt). There is the sense that this is done purely for Ellie’s enjoyment. But when the joke goes too far, and Bobby must be taken away by ambulance to be treated for dehydration, Ellie manages to express regret without verbalizing it. Andy is more adamant with his apologizing, and Bobby understands. The chemistry between these three is perfect, and what on paper looks like a touchy situation that (almost?) goes too far, works wonderfully in reality. Much of this can be credited to the extremely talented trio of actors who pull it off.

Cougar Town continues its stellar third season Tuesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

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'Full Moon Fever' strikes Cougar Town

On this week's Cougar Town on ABC, "Full Moon Fever," Andy (Ian Gomez) and Jules (Courteney Cox) fight over who is King of the Neighborhood. A gang of bicycle-riding kids challenge both to prove their position, and it's Andy, with Jules's permission, that comes out ahead. Meanwhile, Bobby (Brian Van Holt) develops a crush on Travis's professor (Sarah Chalke, Scrubs, How I Met Your Mother), and Laurie (Busy Philipps) starts an online relationship.

Andy is often not the most featured character on Cougar Town. He is usually a supporting player for both Bobby and Ellie (Christa Miller), and also to the others, to a lesser extent. Sometimes he expresses his sadness at being overlooked, but usually maintains a very positive outlook. He's loyal, reliable, and hilarious, making him no less important than any other member of the Cul de Sac Crew.

In "Full Moon Fever," Andy gets his due, and with wonderful results. Sure, everyone sides with Jules in the battle for who is King of the Neighborhood, but Andy is the one who actually stops the boys from riding through their yards. He is able to get the others on board only with Jules's support, but having proven himself, perhaps next time he won't have to ask. And his Braveheart reenactment is superb.

Cougar Town is a very funny show, and so sometimes the serious heart that flows behind each week's story sneaks up on the viewer. "Full Moon Fever" contains a great example of this unexpected twist. Laurie begins chatting with a soldier on twitter after sending him naked pictures of herself. She is lambasted by Ellie, and the audience is likely in agreement that Laurie is acting like a stupid, slutty girl. However, loyal fans know that she is anything but, no matter how she may act from time to time, and that bears out when Ellie sneaks a peek at Laurie's tweets. Laurie isn't just exchanging dirty stuff, she is carrying on a real, supportive, emotional relationship.

Philipps is fantastic, as is everyone else in the show, and it's really nice to see depth to her character. As mentioned before, depth is not new for her, but she has the shallow-esque persona so perfected, that sometimes that can be forgotten. Much credit goes to her for this beautiful, layered character that she inhabits so brilliantly.

Travis (Dan Byrd) doesn't want to introduce his dad to his teacher because it will require his cheating on homework to be exposed. But he comes around to the idea when Grayson (Josh Hopkins) implores Travis to let Bobby be happy. It's true, Bobby has been sad more often than anyone else on the series. This is because he is the unluckiest in love. Maybe Bobby struggles to act mature and responsible, but he is a hell of a good guy, who deserves happiness,

Bringing Sarah Chalke onto the show is great. She is a terrific comedy actress, who can do the romantic stuff, too. She also seems to be a good match for Van Holt, at least at first glance. It is about time that Bobby's character gets some loving, and using this particular actress to make that happen is great.

It is no secret that Cougar Town remains on the bubble, its renewal fate uncertain. But the phenomenal cast and crew have been working so hard to get people to watch, and it's a show that deserves to be on. Please, please, please watch Cougar Town Tuesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

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Love for Cougar Town ain't strange

ABC's Cougar Town returns this week with "Ain't Love Strange," the long delayed season three premiere. Jules (Courteney Cox) asks Grayson (Josh Hopkins) to always surprise her. In that vein, he "sharks" her car, and stages an elaborate ruse that leads to her TP-ing a vacant house, where he gathers her friends and proposes. Shocked and happy, she accepts. Meanwhile, Ellie (Christa Miller) and Andy (Ian Gomez) worry their son is a monster, while Bobby (Brian Van Holt) tries to get Travis (Dan Byrd) to take custody of Dog Travis.

It is hard to express in words how great it is to have Cougar Town back. It's also hard to express how much this series needs to stay on the air. So, before delving into the episode's details, here is a passionate argument to watch the show, and tell your friends about it. It's not about an older woman hitting on younger guys. Its hasn't been since, like, episode five. Yes, the title sucks, and everyone involved in the show freely admits that. But it's kind of like Friends, but with much more drinking, and more relatable characters. Plus oodles of friends-as-family love.

Not only that, but the creators, cast, and crew have worked their booties off these past months to promote the series in every way possible, from becoming active on twitter en masse, to staging viewing parties across the country where they even picked up the bar tab! The dedication and love of this series among the types who make it is unprecedented, and for that alone, they deserve a second look from those who are dismissive of the initial premise. It will be well worth your time, guaranteed.

Now to "Ain't Love Strange." All of the best comedic elements are back, full force. This week's running gag is that Jules is highly predictable, and over and over again her friends prove that to her. What they realize, though, and what Jules doesn't, is that predictability isn't necessarily a bad thing. It's good to have someone to count on, and whom you share affection with. Which makes even the funny parts of Cougar Town incredibly heartfelt.

Grayson singing the Jules morning routine song is hilarious. Their romance has blossomed naturally and with grace over the past couple of seasons. While some shows may put off hooking up two major characters, Cougar Town boldly went for it in season one, and the fact that things have worked out so nicely speaks volumes for the writing and acting talent on the show. Ending "Ain't Love Strange" with Grayson's proposal is extremely rewarding for those who have invested time in this couple's relationship, characters and viewers alike. A+

Andy and Ellie's child, Stan, has been mostly ignored thus far in the show's run. But now he's come back with vengeance, acting out in serious ways. Is this a cry for attention from his often-imbibed, always-with-their-friends parents? Or is it a deeper problem? Does it matter, when the sight of a young child walking down the street with a hammer, malicious intent implied, is freakin' funny?

But, of course, there is great character development to this story, too. Laurie (Busy Philipps), who has slowly been backing off on hating Ellie, compliments her parenting. It's a real, genuine moment between the two. It's been clear that Laurie kind of likes Ellie for awhile, and spending time playing with her child sort of backs that up. Laurie isn't the type to be overly affectionate, and their bickering is one of the joys of Cougar Town. But that doesn't mean there isn't a sisterly type of bond between them, as well.

However, why is Laurie wearing an ankle bracelet? Is that story she told about her fight the reason? And how come she can still hang out all of her favorite places with it on? Isn't the point of one of those things to monitor people on house arrest? Jules's house and the vacant property could be contrived as work related, but what about Grayson's bar?

Finally, Bobby gets a little father-son interaction. What he shares with Travis is special, and the two have a good relationship. Sure, sometimes there's a bit of a reversal on just who is the wise, nurturing one, but it works for them. Bobby is trying, and that really shows. It's hard for him to ask his son for a favor, like taking his dog. But Travis is willing to do things for his dad, so it's all good.

Cougar Town is back in high form, and should definitely be watched. It airs Tuesdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

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Cougar Town The Complete Second Season on DVD

     For those who haven't watched ABC's Cougar Town, or only caught the first few episodes of the first season, then you have no idea what you're missing. What started as a series about a 40-something year old woman named Jules (Courteney Cox) seeking to date much younger men, morphed into an adult buddy sitcom in the middle of the first year, and solidified into what the show ends up being by the first season finale. Basically, it's about a group of adults who dearly love each other drink wine, hang out, play Penny Can, and get into some goofy situations.

     Cougar Town The Complete Second Season hits store shelves this Tuesday, August 30th, and it much better exemplifies the series than season one does. Included in this three-disc set are all 22 funny, remarkably consistent season two episodes. In the second year, Jules and Grayson (Josh Hopkins) begin to get serious about their relationship, Travis (Dan Byrd) goes to college, and Bobby (Brian Van Holt) attempts to make something of himself. Laurie (Busy Philipps) searches for love, which Andy (Ian Gomez) and Ellie (Christa Miller) already have. Tom (Bob Clendenin) tries to worm his way into the Cul-De-Sac Crew, as they call themselves, and Barb's (Carolyn Hennesy) occasional appearances are the only real reminder of the failed start to an otherwise wonderful show.

     Oh, and the title, of course. The title card changes every week in season two to poke fun at Cougar Town, which series creators Bill Lawrence (Miller's husband) and Kevin Biegel freely admit is the one of, if not the, worst show title on television. They are considering changing it, but no official news on that front has been announced as of yet. However, if Cougar Town had not been named that, we would never have gotten such hilarious title cards, so there is a silver lining in it all. If a name change is imminent, might I suggest The Series Formerly Known as Cougar Town?

     Season two is bolstered by new guest stars and recurring characters. Smith (Ryan Devlin, Brothers & Sisters) returns to spark Laurie's feelings once more. Travis's attentions are torn between high school girlfriend Kylie (Spencer Locke, the Resident Evil movies), who'd like an open relationship, and new grad student love interest Kirsten (Collette Wolfe, Hot Tub Time Machine). Kevin (Lamarcus Tinker, Friday Night Lights) is Travis's roommate, though Glee has snapped him up this summer, so it's uncertain how much of season three he might be in. Wayne (CT producer Michael McDonald, MADtv) opens a new wine bar. On a more personal level, Gomez's real life wife, Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), drops by as Andy's flirty cousin. Ken Jenkins, who starred in Lawrence's Scrubs, is Jules's father, Chick. And Sam Lloyd reprises his Scrubs character of Ted in the two-part, Hawaii-set, season finale. It's a very talented group.

     As far as DVD extras go, there are a half dozen deleted scenes totaling less than three minutes, a two minute blooper reel, and an eight and a half minute featurette listed as (still called) Cougar Town: Season 2, which does a fine job establishing the new tone of the series. One would only need to watch that bonus feature to get what Cougar Town is all about now. Andy's Dreams is a six webisode series, mostly involving movie parodies, and they are included on the DVD, as well as an introduction and behind the scenes look at the web series. It's about one episode-length all together, and provides a fun, alternate look inside Andy's head.

     What is missing from the special features are any commentaries at all, and the Actors Vs. Writers Vulture.com web series that was online during the long winter hiatus last year. The Vulture videos were fantastic, and it is really too bad they are not included, as they really helped fill the gap for fans missing their beloved show.

     In any case, Cougar Town: The Complete Second Season is well worth the purchase. Be sure to buy it when it comes out on Tuesday, August 30th.

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Article first published as DVD Review: Cougar Town The Complete Second Season on Blogcritics.

Cougar Town looks for "Something Good Coming" in Hawaii

     Last spring, ABC's Modern Family ended their season by heaing to Hawaii. This year, Cougar Town does the same thing. Next year is your turn, Happy Endings! In Cougar Town's final episode of season two, "Something Good Coming," the Cul de Sac Crew take a family vacation to Hawaii with the ulterior motive of bring home Travis (Dan Byrd), who has fled there after dropping out of college and having his proposal rejected by his girlfriend. Laurie (Busy Philipps) feels especially responsible, as it is her "cheering up" talk that gives him the idea to go. Jules (Courteney Cox) and Bobby (Brian Van Holt) fail to get through to him, but Laurie comes through in the end. Meanwhile, Bobby feels left out after spending couple time with both Andy (Ian Gomez) and Ellie (Christa Miller), only to have them ditch him for some alone time. Jules and Grayson (Josh Hopkins) seem at an impasse when it comes to having a baby. And Tom (Bob Clendenin) follows them, but only hangs out at a distance, unnoticed until the final day of the trip.

     Last season, Cougar Town ends with Bobby sad because he is the only single member of the group. This year, that theme recurs. It's a shame that Bobby is in a similar place as he is a year ago, because the season one finale really made viewers feel for him and hope that he would find a girl. To have the second season finale echo those same emotions is a bit regetful, though Van Holt plays it well. Luckily, Bobby has matured and gotten to a better place, with an actual apartment, so he certainly has a better chance to find love going forward. Until then, he isn't completely alone. Travis is single again, but he's not really part of the group, especially after leaving for college. Tom is also not quite a member. Perhaps Bobby can spend some time hanging with Tom next year?

     Does Tom ever have a chance of joining the group? It's unclear. He is kind of like Chang on Community in that he is on the outskirts and yearns to be on the inside, but the individuals only allow him access on rare occasions. What Tom has going for him is that the Cougar Town characters are kinder and less self involved than the Greendale crew (who are awesome!), and they often don't seem completely bothered to have to tolerate him. It may take awhile, but Tom has a shot.

     Speaking of NBC's Community, the character of Abed (Danny Pudi) makes a short but hilarious cameo in an early scene of "Something Good Coming," an obvious response of Community's extended tribute to Cougar Town in a recent episode, in which Abed mentions flying to Los Angeles and being an extra in CT. It's awesome that two wonderfully creative shows can honor each other with such cross promotion.

     And speaking of cross promotion again, this episode of Cougar Town features the return of a Scrubs character in Ted Buckland (Sam Lloyd), who Travis finds also trying to mend his broken heart on the island state. While it is a real pleasure to see Ted once more, the feeling turns bittersweet when Ted mentions he lost his love. Ted has always been such a sad character, and it was a delight that he got a happy ending on Scrubs. This episode kind of ruins that. But overall, it's worth it to see Ted.

     Will Jules and Grayson be able to overcome their dillema? That's the hope. Other sitcoms get main characters together, only to break them up to force drama. Cougar Town appears to be different, choosing to have their people work through problems, rather than break up. It took them awhile to get together, but once they're a couple, they are a couple. It's a welcome change, and a smart move. A baby might shift the tone dramatically. Ellie and Andy's doesn't, but Jules is essentially the main character, and she makes sure everyone knows her business all the time. As such, another child for her would likely have much more affect than Stan has.

     Another episode with some real Travis / Laurie chemistry. Their bond is plapable, and the creepiness has started to wear off. The writers have said they would want to wait until season five, when Travis is 21 and Laurie is 30, to get them together. Yes, Laurie is Travis's mom's friend, but she's also become his. With her age, it isn't too weird. Besides, watching the two of them together, it is clear that there can be a real relationship there. While it doesn't feel like it's quite time yet, perhaps a season three finale? There could be some fun had when Laurie wants to go out drinking and Travis can't. He may also buck hanging out with his mother all the time, as Laurie does. It will be a real shame if this never happens. As such, Cougar Town must be kept on the air for at least a few more years!

     Also neat, the short title sequence, which typically pans up Florida, is extended, as the camera travels across the country and out to Hawaii. A very cool shot, and a fun idea well executed. The title card features the words "We will never stop mocking the title...", a reference, as the series has taken to doing every week, that Cougar Town just really doesn't do the show justice, or describe what it's about. Series creators Kevin Biegel and Bill Lawrence have begun soliticing fans on twitter for ideas for a new title, so if you have one, please tweet @VDOOZER and @kbeigel

     Cougar Town has been renewed, but will not return until November. I recommend watching reruns and following both he writers and the actors on twitter. They do not fail to amuse. The actor's twitter accounts are: @MrJoshHopkins @ChristaBMiller @IBGomez and @BusyPhilipps25 And the character of Laurie (run by the writers) tweets as @TheLarmy

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It's Okay to Watch a Show Called Cougar Town; I'd Even Encourage It

     The above line is from the opening credits card from last week's episode of ABC's Cougar Town, "Little Girl Blues".  Except for episode two, every episode in this second season of the sitcom has had an amusing slogan above the title.  It's the show that isn't afraid to make fun of itself.  I've covered the series's rise over the first season, and it's growth into one of the most consistently funny shows currently on television before, so I won't do that again.  But it's awesome, and if you're not watching it, you should be.

     This week Travis (Dan Byrd) brought home his new college girlfriend, Kirsten (Collette Wolfe, 100 Questions, Hot Tub Time Machine) to meet his family.  Travis's high school girlfriend, Kylie (Spencer Locke), who won't let him go, was shown hilariously in a short clip, telling Travis he'd be back.  Mind you, she may not have been concerned because she's seeing other people, but she also thinks she can keep a hold on Travis.  In an ideal world, Travis will slowly grow closer to Kirsten, who is played by a wonderfully funny actress who I'd like to see stick around, until a full-blown rivalry erupts between Kylie and Kirsten.  See, I also really like Locke.  Ultimately, I'd like Travis to end up with even-older-than-Kirsten, Laurie (Busy Philipps) because they have such great chemistry.  But it will be years before the two of them as a couple will really be socially acceptable.

     The introduction left much to be desired.  Travis's mother, Jules (Courteney Cox), was predictably over protective, to the level of psycho.  She has an unhealthy obsession with her son, and pity the girl who tries to come in between them.  Plus, Kirsten is a grad student, four or five years older than college freshman Travis.  Jules will probably never accept Kirsten, though she was becoming used to Kylie, because Kirsten broke Big Joe, Jules's giant wine glass, whom she dearly loved.  Big Joe was an icon on the series, but was replaced with Big Carl, so the wonderfully bordeline alcoholic Jules will not be running dry anytime soon.

     The main subplot involed Grayson's (Josh Hopkins) house becoming the new hangout for the gang.  Unlike other shows, this one did not jump the shark when Jules and Grayson finally began dating, breaking the romantic tension built over the first season.  In fact, it's rarely a main focus of the show, which is probably why it works so well.  Grayson, while pretty integrated into Jules's gang at this point, still tries (and usually fails) to maintain some level of privacy.  The invasion of his personal space was met with much unhappiness, to the point that he asked the sometimes-evil Ellie (Christa Miller) for help in stopping it.  She reluctantly agreed, though he pretty much solved the problem himself.  Also, weird neighbor Tom (Bob Clendenin) is trying to worm his way into their cliche.  I like the element Tom brings to the show, but am not so sure I'd like him as a main character.

     My favorite storyline, though, this year has been Bobby's (Brian Van Holt).  Bobby is Jules's ex-husband, and he's still in love with her.  He didn't take Grayson and Jules so well, and a layer of sadness has hung over every scene he's been in this season.  Bobby certainly isn't the smartest member of the group, but he may be the biggest hearted, and the most emotional.  It's a testament to Van Holt that he has been able to pull off this subtle layer without detracting from the show, or making Bobby the least bit unlikeable.  Ideally, he will find love before too long.

     Cougar Town also stars the hilarious Ian Gomez.  The show airs Wednesday nights at 9:30 on ABC, including in two days.

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