Fortysomething

I first watched Fortysomething 3 years ago, and I soon purchased it, which is rare for me. I'm not a particular fan of comedies, but this one's really smart and huge fun, and it's got heart. The characters are hilarious and engaging, and whoever cast this did an amazing job. I hadn't seen some of the actors before, but they're all just what's needed. Peter Capaldi's Ronnie Pilfrey is a particular joy. Other standouts are Hugh Laurie, Anna Chancellor, and Sheila Hancock. A young Benedict Cumberbatch is fun, although under-utilized in his role. If you enjoy re-watching favorite series, this is definitely one to check out. Like some other classics, it holds up well to that. It's also got lots of heart. I'm not sure why this only ran for a season; it may have been because Hugh Laurie was cast in House. Or perhaps it was scheduled/promoted wrong. But thank goodness Fortysomething exists. Sex is a recurring theme, so you may not want to watch it with small children, only so you don't have to explain it to them. It's deftly-handled, though. If you weren't offended by the subject in Friends, it won't bother you here.