ALARIS' REVIEWS

23rd January 2010
The Big Bang Theory: Season 1 (2007)

I first heard about this TV series on the science podcast Science Friday. A sitcom about scientists? About time!

I love geek humour, and have a real affection for series like Futurama (1999), and Gary Larson's comics. I hadn't heard much about The Big Bang Theory, so I wasn't sure what to expect.

The premise is even more prosaic than Chuck (2007). Leonard Hofstadter (John Galecki) and Sheldon Cooper (Jim Parsons) are two hopelessly nerdy physicists who share an apartment. When perky, blonde Penny (Kaley Cuoco) moves in across the hall, Leonard develops an unrequited crush, and hijinks ensue.

The first thing that struck me about the series was how old-school it is. I haven't watched anything with a laugh track since the 80s, and the fixed camera, sound stage, 'joke - pause' style is much less sophisticated than the sitcoms I've grown accustomed to, such as 30Rock (2006), Arrested Development (2003), and Everyone Hates Chris (2005).

I start and end a lot of my reviews by commenting on how disappointed I am with the series/movie/episode, but I actually enjoyed The Big Bang Theory more than I expected. It's a little clunky, a little predictable, and the plotting's a lot simpler than some of the aforementioned sitcoms, but the nerdy references are great. From D&D to quantum physics to classic science fiction novels to psychology, it's like sitting in on a conversation about some of my favourite topics.

It also helps that Leonard is a genuinely sweet guy, and an empathetic protagonist. And while Sheldon is arrogant, antisocial, and deeply neurotic, Parsons delivers a surprisingly funny and memorable character.

The Big Bang Theory isn't as polished, witty, or complex as some other modern sitcoms, but it makes me laugh, and leaves me feeling upbeat.

And it's about scientists!

Verdict: An entertaining sitcom about science and embracing the inner nerd.

If you like Gary Larson, you might like this.