Can ‘Modern Family’ really do no wrong? When the series premiered in 2009, ABC finally saved and revitalized the idea of the family comedy, as well as its reputation as a versatile network. After two years, the series still keeps true to its mantra — relatable characters enhanced by brilliant writing will make a successful show. The show is clearly a winner (sorry, Charlie Sheen).

The latest episode, ‘Boys’ Night,’ is a prime example as to why the series is so critically acclaimed. The show is transitioning into episodes consisting of only two storylines, as opposed to what used to be three. Fortunately, this connects the three families into one another’s lives more often, creating better humor. 

After finally fighting the fear of leaving their adopted daughter with a babysitter, gay couple Mitch and Cam buck up the courage to go out for a ‘guys’ night at the bar. Jay, Mitch’s father, ends up at the same bar when he leaves his wife and stepson Manny and decides to join Mitch’s crew. Mitch, afraid of acting ‘too gay’ in front of his father, is hesitant about the idea. However, in an unpredictable turn of events, Jay warms up to his son’s friends immediately, as they all sip appletinis. Jay becomes so comfortable with the group that he ends up agreeing to a date with Mitch’s friend Pepper (yes, Pepper) for the following night.

Meanwhile, Phil and Claire’s son Luke has started hanging out with his elderly male neighbor Walt, understandably making his parents uncomfortable. Before getting to know the man next door, the two forbid Luke from spending time with him. It spirals into the couple breaking into the old man’s house. In a heartfelt, happy ending, Claire and Phil find out Walt’s not so bad of a guy.

With so many different plotlines occurring simultaneously, I cannot imagine how difficult the show pitch must have been for creators Steven Levitan and Christopher Lloyd (not to be confused with the actor from ‘Back to the Future’).

The series benefits immensely from the fact that it always manages to stay true to the original concept. The writing never fails to deliver, which is hysterically apparent through Jay’s sexual innuendos with Mitch’s friends. But what really came through in this episode was the unbelievable strength of each character’s performance.All three related families are just as significant in their dynamic as the other.

That’s why the show is so successful. All characters bring forth some level of predictability, so viewers feel like they know each of them personally. It has that traditional sitcom feel, in which we know exactly what Bill Cosby, Danny Tanner or Archie Bunker is going to do, but still find ourselves invested in their stories. Not to mention, though the show is unquestionably funny, it has that soft spot you won’t find as strongly emphasized in ‘Community’ or ‘Raising Hope.’

The well-rounded ABC comedy continues to trump itself week after week while providing its viewers with exactly what they want. The outlandish situational comedy just keeps getting better, as well as the development of its characters. Though only in its second season, it’s safe to say the show’s top status won’t be taken away any time soon.

raparks@syr.edu

Published on April 3, 2011 at 12:00 pm