Wonders never cease. There's a new comedy this season that I'm making a point to watch, and it isn't on HBO. More amazing than that, it's only a half hour show that's surrounded by other shows I have no interest in, and yet I've been remembering to watch it every week. And it's on the same time as another show I watch, but I still remember to tape it. In fact, last night I even forgot to watch the other show I usually watch. Whoa!
The show is called My Name is Earl, and it's on Tuesday at 9pm on NBC. It stars Jason Lee, former pro skateboarder and muse of director Kevin Smith.
I love this show because:
a. It stars Jason Lee, and I love Jason Lee.
b. It has a completely original premise. I'm so tired of the retread crap the networks have been dishing out for the last three or four seasons.
c. It's actually funny, without a laugh track.
e. It stars Jason Lee. Did I mention that already?
The premise goes something like this...
Earl is a no-good-nik who had a life altering experience and is now going around with a list of his past bad deeds trying to make good in order to drum up some good karma for himself. [That's the nutshell version. If you need more detail, see the NBC 'About' page.]
Along the way he gets himself into some sticky situations, and meets some interesting characters. The supporting cast and guest actors are all excellent. Jamie Pressly as Earl's trailer park queen ex-wife is a riot. Last night Giovanni Ribisi guest stared as a recently released from prison buddy of Earl's. I've loved him in everything I've ever seen him in, but I'm not sure I'll ever look at him the same after seeing him in polyester bikini underwear and black socks. He gave new meaning to the term sleazeball.
Left to right: Jason Lee as Earl; Ethan Suplee as his brother Randy; guest star Giovanni Ribisi as Ralph, (disguised as Earl).
As much as I love this show, I really didn't think it would last more than a few more episodes. Happily I was wrong and it's a hit. NBC has just given it the nod by ordering 22 more episodes, for a full season run.
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