So, when a new series such as Falling Skies appears on my TV screen, I'm always hoping that this time, the creators have put at least some thought into how they can stay away from the safe options and bring a measure of originality to a tired trope.
After three episodes, I'm sorry to say, it doesn't look like this lot have bothered. It's "Path of Least Resistance"* all the way: lazy plotting; cute kids who love their dads; every character with perfect teeth, skin like cream. The creators' opinion of their audience is so low that they think we can't enjoy a good show without at least one model in every scene.
What a breath of fresh air, then, to escape to the cinema to watch Bridesmaids. The writers (Kristen Wiig, Annie Mumolo) know the meaning of graft. Without gimmicks, they made me fall in love with a varied cast of quirky, beautifully drawn personalities. They mixed toilet humour with situational comedy and an effective plot to provide a perfect evening's entertainment.
If the creators of Bridesmaids ever do a TV show, I expect I'll be an avid fan. As for Falling Skies, it's shoddy, yawn-fodder. Don't waste your time.
*All puns are intended
