Ryan ChartrandLooking for something new to watch on TV? Sick of listening to Simon Cowell sandbag talent-less, doe-eyed wannabes on “American Idol,” or suffering from an “O.C.”-sized void in your evening schedule? Then pull up a chair and let the self-medicating powers of “Weeds” heal your aching funny bone.
Boasting a stellar cast lead by industry veteran Mary-Louise Parker (“Fried Green Tomatoes”), Showtime’s newest black comedy takes a twisted look into the world of dealing in the suburbs.
The show debuted in late 2005 to shining reviews, but stayed relatively off the radar.
In a television review written for New York Magazine, John Leonard said, “The best I can wish for is a vehicle worthy of Parker’s prodigal talents – an ‘Angels in America’ rather than a ‘Reckless’; a ‘Proof’ instead of a ‘Saved!’ By this standard, Showtime’s new sitcom ‘Weeds’ is at least adequate, verging occasionally on inspired.”
Fast-forward a year and a half to this year’s Golden Globe Awards where the freshman standout managed to snag four nominations including Best Television Series (Comedy or Musical), Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor. While the show didn’t go home with any of the awards, it has garnered quite a bit of attention from viewers and professionals alike.
Created by Jenji Kohan (“Sex and the City,” “Gilmore Girls”), the show features a plethora of “drug-induced” storylines incorporating everything from ravenous mountain lions to ludes and drive-by shootings.
“Weeds” is a smart and biting comedy that dares its viewers to laugh at its patronizing perspective of upper-middle class America. Throw in winning supporting performances from Elizabeth Perkins and Kevin Nealon, a smorgasbord of tasty, “magic” treats and the show’s obvious self-depricating humor, and television audiences have definitely found themselves a cure for the crappy programming blues.
“Weeds” airs Monday at 10 p.m. on Showtime.