Returning for its third season on Tuesday night at 10pm, NBC's Parenthood is a refreshing take on the family drama, or more appropriately, dramedy. With a skilled combination of heart and humor, Parenthood stands out as one of the most enjoyable hours of television. Just as he did on Friday Night Lights, creator Jason Katims imbues Parenthood with a palpable authenticity as well. Additionally, the series' reliance on improv among its large and talented cast allows for character interactions that feel natural (full of inarticulates and the like) instead of coming across as written dialogue. Centering around the large and diverse Braverman family, Parenthood always manages to find enough time to develop engrossing stories for all of its many characters. As eldest son Adam, Peter Krause (Six Feet Under) is reliably at the top of his game in every episode, fully realizing the struggle of a father whose son has aspergers syndrome, with Max Burkholder also doing excellent work as the son. Additionally, Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls), as Adam's younger sister Sarah, displays expert light-heartedness as a career-less single mother taking her shortcomings with a smile and self-deprecating wisecrack. Even more of a standout is Mae Whitman (Arrested Development) as Sarah's teenage daughter Amber, impressively demonstrating range and depth well beyond her years. There are too many phenomenal actors in this show to go through each one, but another surprise has been Dax Shepherd, bringing real pathos to youngest son and man-child Crosby as he tries to grow up after meeting his five-year-old son.
Bottom Line: In addition to its gifted cast, Parenthood is worth watching for its engrossing authenticity and entertaining humor, rightfully rendering it one of the top shows on right now.
