Premiere Review: Parenthood (Drama or Dramedy)

Parenthood, the series... #2, is only connected to the 1989 movie by title only. None of the characters have the same names nor are they directly associated with those from the movie. This is more of a re-imaging of PARENTHOOD than a series spin off. But, that could be good for the 2010 version.

I am disappointed that the irresponsible, drifting Tom Hulce character, from the movie, and his son COOL are gone form the 2010 version. The son is now Jabar (who is just now reconnected with his father) and Crosby Braverman is successful, but is just just not wanting a committed relationship. But, the Single Mother with a very rebellious daughter is done better in the new series than it was in the 1989 movie.

Also gone are the uptight, one perfect child focused, characters played by Rick Moranis and Harley Jane Kozak. I guess they are replaced by the Julia and Joel Graham. Julia is the very career minded mother and Joel is the average loving father.

All the character changes are not a big deal if it works and an entertaining series is brought forth. Some changes are for the better, some are not.

Most of the acting is great. Craig T. Nelson is always a class act. Peter Krause does a good job and Lauren Graham is the shinning star of the series.

The main complaint I have about Parenthood is that it is way too much about the drama and not enough humor and lightness. It is not my cup of tea. I am not entertained by the drama of other people, like me.

Parenthood should have a good run for the remainder of the season. It has a good lead in that will help draw it an audience. Its main obstacle may be keeping those viewers that was expecting PARENTHOOD: The Dramedy and NOT PARENTHOOD: the Drama.