new show review: Do Not Disturb
September 14th, 2008 by screenwriterguy
The only thing worse than the one-dimensional lady’s man played by Jerry O’Connell is the unbelievable way he suddenly reverses his habits when his staff confronts him. His main antagonist making herself a hypocrite helps slightly, but not enough to make this show worth sitting through.
No, the three-camera sitcom is not dead. But, no, Do Not Disturb won’t revive it.
By the way, in its identity struggle, the sitcom doesn’t know what to do with the laugh track. But one thing I’m certain is NOT the right answer is unenthusiastic, bemused half-laughter at each “joke.” It’s a trend from the last few years that has really confused me. If even the laugh track doesn’t think your show’s any good…
Jerry O’Connell will have to keep trying. His Carpoolers sitcom last year was better. Actually, I’d rather watch old episodes of My Secret Identity. It’s all in a day’s work for Ultra-Man.
Best aspect: I guess there’s a mix of characters here that will keep stories coming. Can you tell I’m reaching?
Worst aspect: Clunky exposition, forced plot, pat ending, lame jokes, staging as smooth as a Disney tween comedy.
Verdict: I knew after about a minute that I wouldn’t be following this show.
Odds of success: FOX is still playing ‘Til Death. They have some desperation for comedy. And anyone willing to waste their time on that might enjoy this. And for a script this unfunny to reach prime time, someone powerful must be rooting for it. But if there’s justice in the universe, Do Not Disturb will crash hard.
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Sep 24th 2008 at 2:10 am
Interesting. Now the producers are apologizing for having created this drek, and gently blame FOX for pushing a later episode instead of premiering with the pilot.
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117992645.html?categoryid=14&cs=1
Yeah… Still not going to tune in next time.