COMMUNITY Lays Down the "Law"

Article first published as TV Review: 'Community' - "Laws of Robotics & Party Rights" on Blogcritics.

This week’s Community, “Laws of Robotics & Party Rights” (now available on Yahoo! Screen) finds Greendale College enrolling a bunch of prisoners. The convicts don’t actually set foot on campus. Instead, they are allowed to attend via iPad-attached-to-motorized-wheels for remote commuting. This seems like a good idea, but as one might expect, trouble soon begins brewing at the community college.

Community makes good use of weird things, and the telecommuting robots are a prime example of this. The school takes a very offbeat, but likely realistic, task for this technology, and then turns it into a story about a bullying murderer, Willy (Brian Van Holt, Cougar Town), who feuds with Jeff (Joel McHale), trying to kill him at one point, and being “killed” by Jeff in return.

Now, the way this shakes out, finding out that Willy is actually innocent, actually makes no sense given how he tries to push Jeff down the stairs. But one might argue that Willy is just having fun, and the absurdest, would-never-work assassination attempt is a great sight gag, so I can’t bring myself to tear down the episode because of it. Van Holt is equally believable as a cold-blooded killer and as a prankster.

More importantly, this plots allows “Laws of Robotics & Party Rights” to give us another look at Jeff in a semi-dramatic fashion. The past couple of seasons have delightfully started to delve into what makes Jeff tick, and this episode is no different. We see Jeff has become as much of a slacker as a teacher as he was a student or lawyer, playing Planet Earth videos during his law class. Willy makes him feel guilty about that, though, as evidenced by the strong reaction Willy provokes in him. Will Jeff become a better professor after this incident? I’m not sure, but he very well might. Concerning Community‘s most central player, any time Jeff is analyzed a bit is very welcome.

Having Van Holt play Willy is great because Abed (Danny Pudi) is obsessed with Cougar Town, which Van Holt co-starred in, and the series just came to an end last week on TBS. There have been other Cougar Town peeps pop up in Community episodes, and Abed made a cameo in that show, so its nice to see the connection continue.

While Jeff deals with this, Britta (Gillian Jacobs) wants to throw a party in the apartment, but Annie (Alison Brie) says no. Britta can’t get Abed to outright overrule Annie, but she does trick Abed by getting him to make a movie about a party, which ends up backfiring horribly. In the end, Britta must beg Annie to make it stop, Annie being the only one who understands how to influence Abed.

“Laws of Robotics & Party Rights” highlights how Abed’s antics have become toned down. In the early years of Community, Abed’s delusions are brought to the forefront in big ways. Now, Abed making a party happen continuously for days, which only a few bits of are shown, seems downright tame. This reflects the show’s more grounded direction and the growth of Abed into a functioning human being. I miss the old Abed, but I applaud the writers and Dan Harmon for understanding that change must happen and matching the most eccentric character to the other things going on in the program.

Besides these major plots, there are some great jokes, Elroy (Keith David) still being used for some clever racial commentary, and The Dean (Jim Rash) being as dean-y as ever. It’s a pretty solid installment for the sixth season, and is entertaining on its own.

New episodes of Community post every Tuesday on Yahoo! Screen.

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.

Happy To Be ENLISTED

Article first published as ENLISTED Review on Seat42F.

From the mind of Kevin Biegel, co-creator of Cougar Town, comes the new FOX comedy ENLISTED. Set at an army base in Florida, super soldier Sgt. Pete Hill (Geoff Stults, The Finder) is demoted after punching out a senior officer and assigned to head a band of rejects. Among those he now commands are his younger brothers, Randy (Parker Young, Suburgatory) and Derrick (Chris Lowell, Private Practice).

ENLISTED is a little like The Bad News Bears and any other sports film in which a reluctant coach with personal problems of his own has no choice but to reluctantly turn a team of misfits into a superior force. Which means the premise is a pretty familiar formula.

But it’s been awhile since we’ve had a war comedy on television. In the old days, Hogan’s Heroes, among others, portrayed the more amusing side of the armed forces in zany situations, and for a long time, M*A*S*H ruled the airwaves, albeit with a more serious take as the years went on.

ENLISTED does not appear to be something that will get serious. By setting it safely in the United States, there is no life-threatening danger; no bad guys must be stopped, no live grenades are being flung at them. And in a half hour sitcom format, it seems unlikely it will examine the heavy issues soldiers face after returning from overseas.

In this last point, I draw your attention to the way Pete is portrayed. His first scene is set in Afghanistan during a firefight. Yet, he’s too busy showing off pictures of his brothers to realize that he could be shot at any moment. This scene is informed by a later conversation in the “Pilot,” which makes it less silly, but still, there isn’t any sense that harm could come to him. Upon returning to the U.S., Pete is not plagued by night terrors or overwhelmed by a sense of relief at being away from the action, actually wanting to get back. Even the anger Pete exhibits when striking a senior officer doesn’t seem like a serious problem because Pete is just defending his men, not battling internal conflict.

Pete’s brothers are even less complex. Derrick is a jerk who doesn’t care about his job, but that’s just because he feels neglected by Pete. And Randy is an incompetent imbecile with too much enthusiasm, blind to even the slightest hint of reality.

Of course, this “Pilot” is only a starting point. Over time, the stories and characters could grow and deepen, and that’s what I’d hope for from it. I could even see a point where Pete’s crew is competent enough to be shipped to the Middle East, but that’s many years in the future, if it ever comes at all.

From the start, ENLISTED is much more concerned about being funny than being complex. It works. The writing is sharp and the situations are humorous. From Pete’s sexually-charged interchange with rival squad leader Jill (Angelique Cabral, Friends With Benefits), to an obsession with Bradley Cooper, to misunderstandings because Ryan doesn’t understand, well, anything, there are a lot of laugh-out-loud moments.

There’s also heart. It’s easy to feel the affection between the brothers. They may not always get along, but they care about one another, and their father having died during his own military service, they also look out for each other. Keith David (Platoon) plays Cody Wallace, their boss at the base and a friend of the Hill father’s. He oversees the boys and makes sure they stay on the right path, providing guidance and advice. And the characters get the opportunity to return a dog to its happy owners.

The charm oozes out of every pore of ENLISTED, and it looks to also boast a recurring cast of vaguely familiar, but not yet famous, faces that should add to the proceedings. It may not be the best show, or that realistic, but it’s warm and sweet and humorous, and for a sitcom, that’s a good place to start.

ENLISTED airs Fridays at 9:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

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.

GROUND FLOOR "On Top"

Article first published as GROUND FLOOR "On Top" on TheTVKing.

Seven episodes into its freshman season, Ground Floor has become a series I look forward to watching. The cast doesn't have the chemistry of Cougar Town and the writing lacks the weird fun of Scrubs, but it still is a reliable draw from creator of all three, Bill Lawrence. There are constantly decent jokes, and I do enjoy the show's leads immensely.

At the heart of Ground Floor is the relationship between Brody (Skylar Astin) and Mr. Mansfield (John C. McGinely). Did you think I was going to say Brody and Jennifer (Briga Heelan)? Well, as much as Brody and Jennifer's pairing provides the structure, the best parts of each installment are usually those where Mansfield gives Brody advice. Every part of Brody's romantic life is observed and commented on by his boss, and through these talks, we see the development of Mansfield.

At first, it appeared that Mansfield might be a retread of Dr. Cox, McGinley's Scrubs character. But as layers are willingly revealed week after week, it becomes clear that isn't the case at all. While Cox was closed off, Mansfield is open. Cox hated being a mentor, and Mansfield lives for it. Cox would never admit to screw ups and emotions unless pushed, while Mansfield volunteers such things, thinking nothing of throwing an arm around an employee and sitting close on a couch. They are really two completely different people.

McGinley is quite the talented actor. He really makes the little gags Mansfield gets work far more than they should. Each time he appears on screen, the eye is instantly drawn to him, and for good reason. Last week's episode found him singing and dancing in the empty office, and I don't know how the actor kept it together with the audience reacting as they did (assuming the show films in front of a live studio audience?). He really has something.

Brody benefits much from his lessons from Mansfield. Whether he agrees with his superior or not, and he doesn't always, there's a camaraderie and respect between them that belies their varying power statuses. Mansfield is someone Brody looks up to, and I think they are friends, too, though Mansfield would never admit it to the office.

Back to the more obvious central duo, Brody and Jennifer appear to be progressing nicely. I'm a little disappointed we haven't witnessed more of their development after the rocky start, with a bigger focus on shenanigans in the office than in their personal lives. I want to see them outside of work more, find out what kinds of things they are going through that result in them being stronger. They do have a palpable attraction, and I just want it to be explored more in-depth.

Which is kind of what is nice about this week's episode, "Woman on Top," in which we see strain between Brody and Jennifer and how they work through it. Mansfield unknowingly hires Brody's serious ex-girlfriend, Heather (Anna Camp, True Blood, The Help), and as cool as Jennifer tries to be, she gets jealous, especially when she sees how well Brody and Heather still get along and how much they have in common.

Brody and Jennifer do overcome the Heather obstacle, though. It messes them up, and they put in the work to get through it. That's what every strong union needs, to be tested and survive, in order to thrive. I'm not asking for constant drama on this magnitude, as that would be hokey and false, but to get more glimpses of these two in this manner would be welcome.

It is not at all unexpected that Heather leaves at the end of "Woman on Top." Camp is much too in-demand to stick around in a recurring part, and her desk position and attitude would necessitate she be constantly seen. So Mansfield sends her to run his Chicago branch, leaving the door open for repeat appearances, but not making her someone we have to see again.

Does Mansfield do this for Brody? He's been a supported of Brody and Jennifer, even when he resists them, so it makes sense he might do a behind-the-scenes move to help the couple. On the other hand, he's a shark in the business world, and Heather is the type of firm hand the Chicago branch needs. Perhaps it's just a win-win.

Heather's departure is too bad, in a way. Camp and Astin were two of the stars of the film Pitch Perfect, and "Woman on Top" is a nice reunion. Jennifer always has Harvard (Rory Scovel) lusting after her, so it could be interesting to toss in someone who might want to get back with Brody. Plus, it's just plain fun how fast Heather whips Threepeat (Rene Gube) into serving her.

Speaking of Pitch Perfect, a movie with a lot of singing, Astin and Camp have musical moments in this episode, and McGinley and others sang last week. It's cool that Ground Floor finds ways to work its actors' vocal talents into the series. I'm a fan of musicals in general, and while I don't think this will ever be one of those, I appreciate even small numbers done by talented performers. Between Ground Floor and Super Fun Night, it's nice to see this element emerging in the new fall sitcoms. More singing please!

The one thing Ground Floor has yet to figure out is how to effectively use all of its supporting players. Jennifer, Brody, and Mansfield are the real leads, and they are great. Harvard serves his purpose, and Threepeat is someone flexible enough to vary his role week to week, which is what is happening. But Derrick (James Earl) and Tori (Alexis Knapp, who was also in Pitch Perfect) don't really have a fit yet. I'm hoping that changes and Ground Floor moves more in an ensemble direction, as pretty much all the best comedies on TV have larger casts than just 3 or 4 characters.

Overall, Ground Floor has a charm that really resonates, and it is pretty funny. For a freshman show with only half a dozen episodes under its belt, it's doing quite well, and the pedigree involved is such that I expect it will mature nicely. I look forward to seeing where it grows from here.

Ground Floor airs Thursdays 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.

Community "Paranormal Parentage" a little too normal

First published as Community "Paranormal Parentage" a little too normal on TheTVKing.

Two episodes into the fourth season of NBC's Community, and I still feel like something is a little off. The idea that the characters will spend the evening in Pierce's (Chevy Chase) haunted mansion in "Paranormal Parentage" is a solid one, and knowing that he tricks them into coming because he feels left out is obvious, but makes sense. Some of the things that happen during this adventure are great. Others fall a little flat.

For instance, why do we keep seeing shadowy figures following everyone around? We glimpse one behind Abed (Danny Pudi) in the control room, but neither Pierce nor Gilbert (Giancarlo Esposito), whom we learn to be creeping around the place, approaches Abed. Why not? And which one of them (I'm assuming Pierce) somehow manages to be seen in a costume of Pierce's dad behind Annie (Alison Brie), and then disappears by the time she turns around? And what happens to Jeff in the library? Is the liquor laced with something? Why does the episode tell us? Weak sauce.

I feel like Community is still reaching for the weird, but it's not landing in the same way it used to. All the ham jokes at Britta's (Gillian Jacobs) expense are great, and I love that Shirley (Yvette Nicole Brown) knows what Pierce's dungeon room is when Troy (Donald Glover) doesn't. I also greatly enjoy that Dean Pelton (Jim Rash) manages to match Jeff's (Joel McHale) costume, and that Abed brings up Cougar Town again.

I don't like that Abed completely ignores all the film-references ripe within a haunted house, and instead is simply excited to find Pierce's control room so that he can watch Cougar Town. Or the fact that Gilbert is secretly taking care of Pierce is explanation enough about why he is standing over Pierce in his sleep. Or that Pierce, old man that he is, is able to sneak around the house without being seen. How great would a few background shots of him tripping and almost getting caught be? Or being seen by a character or two who doesn't feel the need to expose his secret? Maybe everyone but Jeff?

Community is known for their Halloween episodes. If they can't deliver one of those, I worry about the rest of the season. I'm already mourning the loss of the best sitcom currently running on television.

Well, that's all I have to say about the episode specifically. On to some season- and series-long arc musings!

I do kind of like that Troy and Britta are dating this year, but I would like some more focus on it. It doesn't feel like it's quite working for me, and I want to see that. When they fall apart, I don't want it to seemingly come out of nowhere.  For fans to accept their inevitable breakup, we need to see why it can't work between them so that there is no doubt about the reasons they aren't together.

As much as I like Annie and Jeff as a pair, and I think that's the direction Community has been going in for awhile, I believe the show would be better served to have Jeff and Britta end up together. The scenes they have in "Paranormal Parentage," where she psychoanalyzes him and they bicker, is a great demonstration of the sizzling chemistry they possess. They won't ever be cuddle-on-the-couch sappy romantics together, but they have passion, and can push each other's buttons like an old married couple already. Wouldn't their union be a satisfying finale?

We all know that Chevy Chase is leaving the show. I see Pierce's departure going one of two ways. Most likely, his character will be killed off, which completely works on a number of levels, and would pay homage to the great Chevy Chase, the legendary comic actor who sort of withered away on a sitcom he never quite belonged on.

Or, hear me out, they should just replace him with Fred Willard and make no mention of the change. They could even adjust his personality, as Abed does in his head when imagining Fred as Pierce in the season premiere this year. Fred is fantastic in his own right, and could add something cool to the show. Plus, this opens up some possibilities and conspiracy theories about how much of what went on over the last four years is real. Since it is unlikely Community will last beyond this season anyway, and Chevy is staying through episode ten (or thirteen), it would be awesome to see an episode of two with Willard and a "normal" school, and then have the lid blown off the illusion in the series finale.

Just an idea. Feel free to use it. :)

Community airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.

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 finally goes to Napa

ABC's Cougar Town ended its third and final season on the alphabet network last night, before it moves to TBS next year. The full hour episode, entitled "My Life; Your World," felt nothing like a series finale, so it's a good thing that it will not serve as such. Instead, what is presented is a very transitional episode, setting up what next season might be like.

Central to "My Life; Your World" is the marriage of Jules (Courteney Cox) and Grayson (Josh Hopkins). Though planned for four months from now, Grayson suggests eloping after growing frustrated that the rest of the gang is always around. Unfortunately, Jules doesn't understand that he means he wants only the two of them to be present, and she invites the rest of the Cul de Sac Crew to travel to Napa (where else would wine lovers go?) with them! Plans fall apart even further when Jules cannot get Grayson's daughter to join them, and so they decide to wait until they go home to get hitched.

Strangely, TVLine.com's Michael Ausiello seems to be a mute bartender in Napa. For goodness sakes, where are the man's lines?

This disagreement between Jules and Grayson, over privacy is one that seems like a huge stumbling block. Grayson starts out as a character that is not part of the pack. Even after he begins hanging out with the others, he separates from time to time. But lately, he is always with the gang. Does his reaction, which manifests itself in some pretty angry outbursts, stem from a real desire to be alone sometimes, or is he just getting cold feet?

Hopefully, it's mostly the latter, since Jules' friends will not be going anywhere. And this does seem to be the case when Grayson not only gets over his hangup, but proposes to Ellie (Christa Miller), Andy (Ian Gomez), and Bobby (Brian Van Holt), too. If Grayson had not been able to come to terms with this, this would have been a major deal breaker. After all, if the group did not spend every waking moment together, what would the show be about?

Also, before Jules can admit she's got a problem, too, which is eventually shoved under the rug, making Grayson be the one that adapts, totally in character, there is a great homage to Groundhog Day.  Jules has never seen the movie. She makes her friends explain it to her, and it still confused. But as they make her live it until she admits that she's wrong, the hilarity ensues. Great use of a classic film!

The actual nuptials end up being really sweet, as Lynn (Nicole Sullivan) suggests that they be spontaneous, which is exactly what they do. While the couple cannot get permission to marry on the beach, Jules' dream, they stage a guerrilla wedding there anyway. As the cops (including one played by series creator Bill Lawrence) close in, they quickly become a moving wedding. It's a funny scene that really fits the tone of the series, both ridiculous and heart warming. Especially when Chick (Ken Jenkins) brings along his horse to keep him from crying.

Of course, there are other plots in "My Life; Your World," too. Travis (Dan Byrd) turns 21. This is celebrated in Napa by the gang pulling him out of bed and shoving a glass of wine into his hands. His resulting claim to not really care for the vino provides the appropriate shocked reaction from Jules. But that doesn't take away from how satisfying it is to finally see Travis drinking with the others.

As the kid on the show, he has always been a little bit outside of the group. In recent episodes, this has started to change, with less scenes of Travis at college, and more of him being included. Especially cool is his recent friendship with Ellie. The wine is the perfect initiation ceremony to move into the gang fully. And the terrible singing of happy birthday seems more realistic than most shows do.

Andy gets a father-son moment in the first half of the episode. With the joy of Penny Can having been sapped away when Travis points out how silly it's gotten, with all of the additional rules, Andy and Bobby mourn. However, Travis is able to boost their spirits by helping them introduce Stan (Sawyer Ever) to the game. The sight of Andy as a loving, devoted father is precious, and it's sort of a passing of the torch from Travis to Stan as the token kid, now that Travis has joined the adult world.

Is it a little odd that Travis might want to join his mother's circle of friends? Yes and no. Yes, because he's still in college, and they're all much older, and being too chummy with one's mom is a little creepy. No, because Jules has the coolest friends, which includes Travis' dad, whose father-son relationship is not at all creepy. But most of all, it works because of Travis' attraction to Laurie (Busy Philipps).

Ever since the start of Cougar Town, there has been a chemistry between Travis and Laurie. While Laurie is definitely the youngest one of the adults, it didn't work at first, when Travis is still a teenager, because of the age difference. By "My Life; Your World," it begins to feel a lot more natural. Travis makes a play for her, getting smashed, naked, and declaring his love, in front of the entire gang and Laurie's boyfriend, no less.

Laurie doesn't go for Travis yet, but the seed is planted. At the wedding on the beach, she looks at him, and there is definitely something between them, even stronger than before. She is surely actually seeing him as boyfriend material now. Will it work out between them? Who knows? But it will be very surprising if they do not become a couple sometime in season four.

The final plot involves Ellie falling for a hotel concierge named Daniel (David Arquette) who will do anything for her, which eventually lands him in jail. This entire subplot feels wrong and strange. Watching how not cool this all is with Andy, one keeps waiting for the inevitable moment where Ellie realizes she has hurt her husband and apologizes. It never comes. In the tag at the end of the episode, she is still rubbing his face into it. Not even Ellie is this cruel, and so the story falls flat. But it is the only really weak spot in the entire hour, so it can be overlooked.

Cougar Town will pack its bags and move to TBS soon. Make sure to watch for details about when it will come back! My recommended way to do this is to follow Bill Lawrence on twitter @VDOOZER.

If you like my reviews, please follow me on Twitter! Click here to buy DVDs and streaming episodes of Cougar Town. Read every Cougar Town review I've ever written! Article first published as Cougar Town finally goes to Napa on TheTVKing.com

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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Community enrolls in "Biology 101"

     The third season premiere of NBC's Community finds the study group enrolling in Professor Kane's (Michael Kenneth Williams, Boardwalk Empire, The Wire) "Biology 101" class. But there is no room for Pierce (Chevy Chase), who claims to be reformed and wants to join the group. That is, until Kane kicks out Jeff (Joel McHale). Unfortunately, Pierce was telling the truth about being away from the "magic" of the study table making one crazy, as Jeff soon begins to lose it. Pierce lies, looking like the bad guy, so that Jeff can rejoin his friends. In return, Jeff makes sure Pierce isn't kicked out again.

     It's nice to have Pierce back. While it was kind of fun to see him as a villain, that story has run its course, and it's time for something new. There are enough outside forces working against the study group, that there is no need to alienate one of their own to find something to fight against. Pierce's re-inclusion should not be instant, but the healing process has begun, and that's important.

     Community opens "Biology 101" with a huge musical number, claiming that they will "be less weird" this season. Perhaps that is the hope of the characters, but the manner in which they deliver the message ruins that dream as soon as it begins. Thankfully, since the weirdness and originality inherent in the series are what makes it such an awesome show. If Community were to become less weird, it probably wouldn't be worth watching any more. Gladly, there is no sign of that.

     Dean Pelton (Jim Rash, finally a series regular) is arguably the weirdest character on the show. Yet, he turns over a new leaf, growing a goatee and wearing a suit in "Biology 101." This lasts for a few minutes, until he tries to exert his authority over Vice Dean Laybourne (John Goodman, Treme, Damages) of the air conditioning repair annex. Turns out, 80% of Greendale's funds come from annex alumni donors, and now that Dean has poked the dragon, he loses his goatee and much of the school's money. This sets the character back, not an unwelcome development, but the ramifications to the rest of the series, and the college's programs, remain to be seen.

     One change that is already occurring is Chang (Ken Jeong) finding a new job and place to live. After Chang was the teacher of the study group in season one, season two found the writers sometimes struggling to come up with plots for Chang. Sure, he has an intense longing to join the gang, but they don't want him, and despite indications that eventually they would break down, they haven't. The newest development in this saga is that Chang will serve as a security guard at Greendale. Will he use his newfound power to force them to include him? Or he will he just continue to be an annoyance? Either way, at least he'll be sticking around.

     Also, Abed (Danny Pudi) goes into serious withdrawal when his favorite series, Cougar Town, is pushed to mid-season. While Cougar Town has been schedule that way since spring, and Abed would not just be finding out in the fall, it's nice that the very funny sitcom on another network gets yet another shout out from Community. They are both great shows, and any attempts to pull the two closer together is always welcome.

     Britta (Gillian Jacobs) tries to solve Abed's problem by introducing him to the "British series on which Cougar Town was based," Cougarton Abbey. There is no real Cougarton Abbey, unlike Cougar Town, but the brief glimpses we get of this "original" show are definitely worth a few laughs. Also welcome is the way the characters kill themselves after a mere six episodes, a poke at the way television shows across the pond are made completely differently. Except Doctor Who, which ran for years decades ago, and has been back on the there past six seasons. So a parody of Doctor Who is perfect for Britta's second attempt to distract Abed. And it works.

     Community also stars Alison Brie, Donald Glover, and Yvette Nicole Brown. Don't miss it, Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. ET on NBC.

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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.