The Neighbors

An eccentric and quirky sitcom, The Neighbors, aired on ABC from 2012 to 2014, starring the dynamic Jami Gertz. Jami, known for some of her unforgettable roles in the 80s like 'Lost Boys' and 'Less Than Zero,' brings her unique brand of comedy and wit to the series. The Neighbors is a combination of science fiction, modern family melodrama, and comedy, providing audiences a refreshing and unconventional viewing experience.

Set in a slice of suburban paradise known as Hidden Hills, New Jersey, the show introduces us to the Weavers - Marty (Lenny Venito), his wife Debbie (Jami Gertz), and their three children Amber (Clara Mamet), Max (Max Charles), and Abby (Isabella Cramp). On the quest for a better life for themselves and their children, the Weavers make the move to this gated community, aiming to carve out a piece of the suburban dream. Unbeknownst to them, their neighbours are literal aliens – peculiar extraterrestrials from a faraway planet named Zabvron.

Jami Gertz, as Debbie Weaver, is a hilariously awkward but emphatic matriarch attempting to ensure a normal life for her kids amidst their not-so-normal living situation. She plays her part with finesse, bringing light-hearted humor and authenticity to her character. As Debbie tries to connect with her otherworldly neighbours, the ensuing comedy and drama lead to moments of hilarity and ingenuity that carry the narrative forward.

However, The Neighbors isn't your standard outsider-among-aliens sitcom. Instead, it cleverly reverses roles with "human" beings, the Weavers, being the odd ones out in their culturally different neighborhood. The alien families, who've taken the names of famous athletes for disguise, have been living in their suburban enclave for a decade now while waiting for instructions to return to Zabvron. While they may look human, their peculiar customs and behavior paint a stark contrast to human ways, invoking both laughter and insightful commentary about societal norms and conventions.

As the show progresses, the Weaver family, in their attempt to teach earthly manners to their alien neighbors, finds themselves even learning from them. The Zabvronians, contrary to their initially odd habits (such as crying out of their ears), are actually benevolent beings who are also attempting to understand our world and fit in. The antics of both the Weavers and the Zabvronians underline the heart of the show - the universality of the shared experiences of love, family, and the quest of 'fitting in', no matter how 'alien' we might feel.

The strong performances of the supporting cast should also be lauded – Simon Templeman and Toks Olagundoye embrace their bizarre alien characters with impressive commitment. The antics of the Weavers' children, Max and Amber, each present hilarious and endearing moments in their own right, offering clever comedic relief and relatability for younger viewers.

Other characters from the neighborhood, each with their own quirks, bring a different flavor to the community - from Larry Bird (Simon Templeman), the slightly inept Zabvronian leader; to Jackie Joyner-Kersee (Toks Olagundoye), Larry's intelligent and kind-hearted wife; and their socially awkward but loveable son, Reggie (Tim Jo). As these characters navigate their nightly community meetings at the golf course, the viewers get a glimpse of the kookiness that lies at the heart of The Neighbors.

The Neighbors is more than just a comedy; it's a commentary on suburban living, and the misadventures and mirth represent a broader analysis of societal norms and how we perceive 'foreign' cultures. Between the laughs and lovable characters, the show offers viewers the chance to reflect on breaking barriers of differences and embracing diversity.

In summary, The Neighbors offers charm and wit, underpinned by a resonating theme of unity and acceptance. As the Weavers navigate their absurd reality alongside their alien neighbors, audiences are drawn to the compelling absurdity that pushes the boundaries of traditional sitcom norms but in a way that is refreshingly pleasant with plenty of sweet moments and laughter. It’s a sitcom that cleverly combines humor and heart with a generous helping of sci-fi, making it a must-watch for comedy and fantasy enthusiasts alike.