The Detour

The Detour is a comedy series that aired on TBS from 2016 to 2019, featuring a remarkable ensemble cast led by Jason Jones, Natalie Zea, Daniella Pineda, Phil Reeves, and Jeffrey Vincent Parise among others. The show is a brainchild of Jason Jones and Samantha Bee, a real-life couple known for their wit and humor.

The series revolves around the life of the Parker family: Nate (Jason Jones), his wife, Robin (Natalie Zea), and their two kids, Delilah (Ashley Gerasimovich) and Jared (Liam Carroll). At first blush, they seem like an average, everyday family, but things unravel rapidly as they venture on a road trip to Florida that goes off the rails. Each episode typically includes a new pit stop, introducing the family to various hurdles and eccentric characters, making the journey and their family bonding more interesting and, at times, cringingly hilarious.

One of the show's appeal lies in its way of using the common tropes associated with family road trip stories and flipping them on their head in unexpected, raucous, and downright funny ways. It takes eccentricities to a new level, showcasing everything from outlandish run-ins with law enforcement to hysterical misunderstandings with locals. The situations they find themselves in are consistently infused with original humor that keeps viewers on their toes.

Jason Jones, known for his work as a correspondent on The Daily Show, shines as Nate, the well-meaning but often misguided family man. Similarly, Natalie Zea as Robin provides a humorous portrayal of a wife and mother, with intriguing personal secrets and pasts that contribute to the series' overarching narrative. Also, the performances of Ashley Gerasimovich and Liam Carroll as the Parker children bring an additional touch of humor and nuance to the series.

The secondary characters also play a significant role in making The Detour a comedy show worth watching. Among them are Phil Reeves, Jeffrey Vincent Parise, Tom Amandes, Judge Reinhold, and Maz Jobrani, all of whom turn in memorable and hilarious performances. Additionally, the special guest appearances from James Cromwell and Laura Benanti add an extra layer of interest to the series.

What distinguishes The Detour is its ability to blend comedy and drama in a way that manages to keep viewers laughing while also staying engaged in the narrative developments. At the heart of it all, it's a story about an imperfect family, making it both relatable and endearing. It utilizes flashback sequences to reveal backstories and develop the characters further, which adds to the series' appeal.

The series also explores serious issues underneath its humorous veneer, including marriage dynamics, the toll of lies in a family, and the challenging nature of parenthood. At the same time, it never veers too far away from its comedic roots, ensuring that the laughs keep rolling even in the midst of dramatic twists and turns.

Overall, The Detour is a comedy that doesn't shy away from pushing boundaries and taking risks. It’s a quirky, often outrageous, series full of unexpected storylines and memorable characters each with their unique flaws and attributes. With four seasons of back-to-back laughter and family bonding, it offers a unique blend of humor and heart. The show successfully serves a comic relief with a meaningful storyline, making it a worthwhile addition to the realm of TV comedies. The Detour is proof that even the wildest of ride can lead to an exciting adventure, making it a perfect binge-watch for those who seek a good laugh mixed with a heartwarming family tale.