To save his only daughter from sex in the city, single dad George (Jeremy Sisto) whisks his daughter, 16-year-old Tessa (Jane Levy), to the burbs — a place where “Zombie Moms” roam the streets, sugar-free Red Bull is the daily fuel, lawns are immaculately manicured, and bodies are laced with botox and silicone. Viewers will feel right at home, in a neighborhood that closely resembles Desperate Housewives’ Wisteria Lane, which by the way, was also home to Leave It to Beaver.
At first glance, the title of the show did this little-gem-of-a-sitcom no favors. An obvious play on the words Suburbia and Purgatory, what initially came to mind was a fictional weigh-station, just before an encounter took place with a red-tailed-horned character with fire licking at his feet. At second glance, the title is catchy, and achieves what it sets out to do—it puts it’s finger on the pulse of a place of temporary punishment for tortured-teen Tessa.
The premiere sets the stage for Tessa’s dismal banishment from her kingdom of New York City, and follows her entry into the wacky world of suburban life. Tessa embodies the traits of a street-smart teen who is loaded with self-confidence and a wry sense of humor. Not one to put up with the bullying, she tells it like it is, and in her casually-caustic way portrays an “I could care less” attitude. Behind that cool façade though, lies a young lady who longs for a mother’s touch, and slowly begins to realize that not only is dad on her side, but he also has her back, and she just might have his also.
The conflicted teen storyline has great possibility, but with such superb acting, the development of relationships among the easily-loveable cast of characters should be exciting to watch. More great moments are in store for viewers as George becomes the father of the year, Tessa’s moxy and depth lead her into the role of fast friend, and the ditsy, desperate-housewife Dallas shows off her skills as a sorority housemother.
Starring: Jeremy Sisto as George Altman, Jane Levy as Tessa Altman, Carly Chaikin as Dalia Royce, Allie Grant as Lisa, Alan Tudyk as Noah Lerner, Cheryl Hines as Dallas Royce
For a limited-time only, watch an advanced screening of ABC’s newest comedy, Suburgatory, then tune in to the premiere, Wednesday, September 28 at 8:30|7:30c on ABC.
To view, visit www.abc.com/
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