Television Spotlight: "Mockingbird Lane" - The Munsters Reborn

Photo Credit: NBC

The recent premiere of Mockingbird Lane, an update on the classic television series The Munsters, was better than expected. The lack of make-up for the primary characters differs from the original series, but that is a good thing. Besides the scars around Herman's neck, most everyone looks normal, but they all have their eccentricities. The special effects featured in the pilot episode were quite good, not to mention unexpected, and the set design looked fantastic. The performances were OK and if the series is picked up, the actors will have an opportunity to expand on what was presented in the pilot. I hope this is true for Eddie Izzard, who portrays Grandpa (or Sam Dracula). I thought the character was portrayed as too mean spirited and stiff, thus making him the least likable character. The other male characters, Herman (Jerry O'Connell) and Eddie (Mason Cook), were front and center for the pilot, while Lily (Portia de Rossi) and Marilyn (Charity Wakefield) did not have significant roles to play. Herman dealt with heart problems, while Eddie was going through body changes that go well beyond puberty. More balance will be needed if Mockingbird Lane becomes a regular series. In any event, I think it has potential and would like to see more.

If you missed the pilot, you can watch it here.