Overview of the Show
So Help Me Todd presents itself as a charming dramedy centered around the dynamic duo of high-powered lawyer Joan (Marcia Gay Harden) and her son Todd (Skylar Astin), a private investigator. Based on creator Scott Prendergast’s own life experiences, the show aims to mix humor with heartfelt moments as the pair tackle different cases each week. However, beneath its seemingly straightforward premise lies a curious dissonance that makes for a viewing experience that can feel more jarring than engaging.
The Odd Couple Dynamics
The foundation of So Help Me Todd rests on the relationship between Joan and Todd, a classic odd couple. Joan is the epitome of a polished lawyer grappling with personal upheaval—her husband has left her for seemingly greener pastures. Meanwhile, Todd is navigating the rocky waters of his career and personal life, trying to prove he can be more than just the disappointment his mother perceives him to be. The initial episodes find them bickering and sniping at each other, which is entertaining to a degree but starts to wear thin as the series progresses.
A Familiar Yet Flawed Setup
The structure of the show follows a familiar formula where each episode centers around a case that the duo investigates. The catch? Each case is presented with an upbeat tone that seems at odds with the sometimes dark themes being explored, such as murder and sexual assault. While the upbeat score and quick-paced dialogue set a lighthearted mood, the serious subject matter can feel forced, leaving viewers unsure of how to feel.
Harden’s portrayal of Joan is a highlight; she effectively captures the character’s obliviousness and poise, even while dealing with personal turmoil. Yet, her interactions with Todd often lean into a realm of forced tension rather than genuine conflict, which can be frustrating for viewers hoping to see a more nuanced relationship.
Supporting Characters: Missed Opportunities
In addition to Joan and Todd, the show introduces a few supporting characters who feel like they’re just there to fill space. Lyle (Tristen J. Winger), Todd’s uptight coworker, and Susan (Inga Schlingmann), Todd’s ex-girlfriend, both serve as foils to Todd’s character but are often underdeveloped. Their roles seem less about contributing to the story and more about giving Todd someone to interact with other than his mother.
Allison (Madeline Wise), Todd’s sister, provides a much-needed dose of skepticism and sarcasm. However, her character, like many others, feels sidelined and underutilized. It’s a shame because there’s potential for these characters to add depth to the storyline and enrich the family dynamics, but they often take a backseat to the mother-son drama.
Tone Trouble: Humor vs. Heart
The crux of So Help Me Todd lies in its tonal inconsistency. While the show clearly aims for a light, comedic approach, the inclusion of heavier subject matter leads to moments that feel jarring. For instance, viewers are meant to laugh at Todd’s self-referential quips, reminiscent of shows like Psych, but then are suddenly thrust into serious discussions that require a more somber tone.
This imbalance can lead to confusion. Are we supposed to be laughing or feeling tense? The transition between upbeat hijinks and serious drama is often abrupt, creating a disjointed viewing experience. A zippy score accompanies many of these lighter moments, but the heavy themes lurking beneath can feel at odds with the show’s overall vibe.
The Path Forward: Finding Balance
For So Help Me Todd to truly shine, it will need to find a way to balance its conflicting tones. The premise is solid, and there’s potential for the characters to develop into a compelling family unit. If the show can navigate its tonal shifts and allow the characters’ relationships to breathe, it could evolve into something genuinely entertaining and relatable.
The Importance of Character Growth
Character growth is essential for any long-running series, especially one centered around familial relationships. Todd and Joan’s constant bickering is meant to signify their growth, but if it continues to feel more like a chore than a meaningful evolution, viewers might start to lose interest. The same goes for the supporting cast; giving them more depth and agency could elevate the narrative and engage the audience on multiple levels.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag of Potential
In summary, So Help Me Todd delivers an intriguing premise with a talented cast, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The aggressive perkiness clashes with the more serious elements, resulting in a jarring experience that can frustrate viewers. While the series has its moments of charm and wit, it struggles to find a consistent tone that resonates.
If the show can strike a better balance between humor and heart, it has the potential to become a noteworthy addition to the CBS lineup. For now, it remains a mixed bag—entertaining at times but needing refinement to truly shine.
