Breeders

The writers have outdone themselves. I watched an episode by accident and now I wouldn't miss one for the world. The family is so darn normal, warts and all, that's what makes this show so outstanding. They cuss, the kids lie to their parents, but in the end they are a very strong loving unit. That's what makes the show.

I think sometimes the genre descriptions on here can be misleading since when I first saw this show on IMDB I assumed it was just a straight up comedy about parenting and relationships, which it is not. Yes there are comedic elements, especially if you also have kids, but its way more dramatic than I expected and I mean that in a positive way. For me I was about 3 episodes in and couldn't decide whether I liked it or not(partly because I was expecting a comedy) but my advice is to stay with it, get invested in the characters and don't make any attempt to categorize the show. In general I would say this show is extremely unique and also very close to reality.

Unmatched cast, including the kids. Martin Freeman is brilliant and shows so much acting range. I wonder how much if any of the writing he contributed, how much based on his life. Has hilarious moments--the British humor (humour), it's just different from American humor -- but the family dynamics I am sure almost universal. I read a different actor was originally cast as Jim, Martin Freeman's father, but I've seen Alun Armstrong, the actor who replaced him, in several series and I think he's superb--there's lightness and seriousness in each episode. Highly recommend especially if you enjoy Freeman.

I love the chemistry between the main characters and how their children are both the joy and the misery in their life! Excellently executed!

Yes, Ally and Paul are highly imperfect as parents, that is one of the main thrusts of the show, and what make it so real for those who relate to feelings of inadequacy, joy, frustration and even regret. As someone who grew up with a father who had significant anger problems, I've never seen parental anger and the associated guilt (and eventual growth!) portrayed in such a realistic manner. Is that part hard to watch sometimes? Absolutely, that is what makes it so cathartic and real. Not to mention that the many "funny" parts, which are character driven rather than cheap one liners, give true balance to the heart and depth that this gem of a series successfully pulls off. I understand that it may not be for everyone, but the plot lines are often profound, the family bonds are beautiful and real, the angst is truly reflective of life, and the ultimate perfection of imperfections made this a very fulfilling experience for me.