Best of TV (Short Run), No. 4


Today I continue my look at my favorite TV series of all-time. I am counting down the best five series' cancelled too soon before turning to long-run shows later in the summer. As always, I welcome feedback, comments, suggestions, complaints, and anything to make a fun discussion.

Wonderfalls (2004)
Network: FOX
About:  "Wonderfalls" was a quirky drama/comedy that never really found an audience. It was a satirical show that ran over parts of two seasons. It debuted in March of 2004 on FOX and got four spring episodes, a handful of episodes during July, and then a burn-off in October, November, and December. Oh, and I forgot to mention that FOX did the show the incredible service of airing episodes out of order. So the show got 13 episodes, shown in three mini-bursts, out-of-order, and was expected to really pack in the viewers. Nice work, FOX. Co-creators Todd Holland and Bryan Fuller, who created this show and has two shows on this list, really did a nice job of creating a fun, vibrant world with rich characters. The show is different than anything else on the air now, or when it was released. But, then again, that's part of the problem. As much as we like to mock the idea of formulas in terms of cop, lawyer, or doctor dramas on network TV, that's what draws ratings. Had this show appeared on cable, it might have lasted longer. The show is about a young woman, Jaye Tyler (Caroline Dhavernas), who hears voices through inanimate objects. The objects speak to her in riddles, and she has to figure out how to get involved and help people. She begins to believe it's the voice of God and that she is being commanded to make the world a better place. Sometimes she misinterprets her messages, which leads to fun complications. She has a sassy best friend (Tracie Thoms), a wacky family (including Lee Pace, Katie Finneran, William Sadler, and Diana Scarwid), and a crush on a new bartender in town (Tyron Leitso). Dhavernas is great in the lead role, and I have been surprised that she didn't end up getting other offers after this show. The whole cast worked, the stories were interesting, and it was a unique twist. I have watched the series a few times because I find it fun and hilarious, and it's one of those gems that hardly anyone saw.
Viewing Options: "Wonderfalls" the complete series is available on DVD

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