Good American Family

Wanted to like this. For the most part, I'm unconvinced by the characterizations, which are in need of nuance. I was hoping to see a fresh role for Pompeo, but her delivery is similar to her longtime performance in "Grey's Anatomy". Same voice, similar expressions, and convenient charms. Some of the emotional transitions for Duplass feel rushed and formulaic. Considering that I'm having challenges early on, I'm reminded that this series will endure for 8 episodes. The script feels flimsy, and it's disappointing because the real life story is intriguing. It's hard to know what really happened behind closed doors in the Barnett household after they adopted Natalia Grace. As a result, we're presented with some scenarios which don't ring true. Finally, a quick tech note: the score for this series is heavy handed. When the production wants the viewer to feel threatened or sentimental, the music works overtime to make sure we get the gist.

I was hesitant to check this show out because of the reviews, but I'm so glad I did. It is suspenseful, heartfelt at times, and you can't help but feel for all parties involved.

Ellen Pompeo is great in her role and so is Mike Duplass.

Imogen Faith Reid is fantastic - she is convincing in her role. At first you want to feel bad for her, then you are afraid of what she is going to do next.

I have read that this is loosely based off of a true story. I think a lot of people are trying to focus on the inconsistencies between the series and reality. Since I don't know much about the real story, my advice is to watch this show without comparing it against what it is loosely based off.

I started thinking that I could predict where this was going based on the blurb and a couple of episodes I'd watched...and I was SO wrong.

If you really pay attention (put the phone down!) and give this the time to play out through the episodes, the story unfolds and personally I loved the way it was filmed as it truly got such an emotional response out of me. I was surprised at the story and my whole opinion of characters changed as the episodes played out. The way in which it's filmed is a credit to helping tailor your connection with each character.

I don't want to give spoilers so you can enjoy it too!

I almost didn't watch this because of all the bad reviews, but I'm glad I gave it a chance because it's a great show. The thought the acting was good, with all the characters cast really well. Ellen Pompeo in particular plays the mom role perfectly. I think it's the best she's been. It's a creepy drama that's even creepier because it really happened. I wasn't familiar with the story previously so I'm glad I have an entertaining way to learn about it.

I'm genuinely puzzled by the bad reviews. I honestly don't know why people don't like it. Maybe this kind of show isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I'm really enjoying it.

I'm on episode 5. When they dropped the adopted off at her own place and to see her struggle was unsettling. Total transparency. I have abandonment issues from childhood. To see her in that element was cringing to me. So far the series is intense. I couldn't finish the episode as of yet. To get that type of reaction from the audience is amazing. Unfortunately there isn't anything warm hearted about the show. I think the acting is convincing. The actor playing the "dwarf", is convincing. I never watched Grey's Anatomy, but the lead actress has this gravitational pull. She draws you in and very unpredictable.