Saturday, June 10, 2017

"Freaks and Geeks" Given only One Season is Reasonably One of the Best Shows - Now on Netflix

The TV show "Freaks and Geeks" aired for only 1 measly season on NBC despite being freakishly brilliant, funny, touching, relatable and a launching pad for many talented stars.  Judd Apatow & Paul Feig were the leading force behind writing, directing and creating this high school comedy/drama that delves much deeper into the psyche from multiple viewpoints of high school students in the 80's than the award winning show "The Wonder Years" (1988-93).   Don't get me wrong, "The Wonder Years" was a wonderful TV sitcom of high school kids in the late '1960s, but don't miss out on this stellar show about a motley mix of student stereotypes.  It's simply the single best show that flew under the radar.  Blame can levied against poor executive decision making at NBC.  But, don't be a jackass, just watch the show now on Netflix.  The writing, acting & overall look of the show is freaskishly superior to the best of TV comedies.  Apatow had the incredible knowhow to spot talent.  Among the soon to be superstars assembled are:  James Franco (Daniel), Seth Rogen (Ken) and Jason Segel (Nick) as "freaks"; the cool kids outside high school conformities.  The central characters are brother & sister, Linda Cardellini (Lindsay Weir) and John Francis Daley (Sam Weir).  Lindsay is a smart student grappling with her identity & where she fits in at school.  Sam is the younger, diminutive brother who has 2 friends, the 3 amigos of "geeks".  Both Cardellini & Daley should have won Emmy's for their outstanding performances.   What makes this such a winning show is not only its wit & astuteness but its bent towards kindness and empathy.  There is the jocks, nerds, smart kids, beauty queens and mean spiritedness.  More importantly, are the wonderful connections made between perceived divisive "classifications" acceptance and inspiration.  This is a poignant show of friendship & self-discovery.  A favorite episode features Bill (Martin Starr) Sam's socially awkward friends & the gym coach.  The humility of always being the last picked for teams was excruciatingly painful to watch as Bill utters "pick me, pick me".  Bill confronts his coach with the unfairness & humility of the situation.  He wants to be given an opportunity to prove himself on the field.  The coach listens to Bill & implements his suggestion.  The next gym class is triumphant.  It leaves you cheering and laughing.  "Freaks and Geeks" being jerked around & canceled by the network after only one season was a gross oversight.  It may have had only one season but it will have an enduring, beloved legacy.

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