Scoundrels

Scoundrels, which premiered on ABC in 2010, is an intriguing and humorous summer series that offers viewers a fresh perspective on dysfunctional family dynamics. The show is a unique blend of comedy, drama, and crime, designed to entertain the viewer with episodes that are both thrilling and filled with hilarity. Scoundrels is based on the highly successful New Zealand series, "Outrageous Fortune," and it has been crafted to appeal to a broad audience with its distinct flavor of wit, drama, and suspense.

The story revolves around the West family, a rather unusual clan not known for their adherence to the law. The family is headed by Cheryl West, played by the talented and Oscar-nominated Virginia Madsen. Cheryl is a charismatic, tough woman who has perpetually found herself in the midst of crime due to the murky activities her family is associated with. However, she houses a burning ambition to leave their unlawful ways behind and strive for a law-abiding life that provides them with stability.

Cheryl's husband Wolf, funnily enough, is the alpha of West's criminal activities, portrayed by David James Elliott. Wolf's arrest at the beginning of the show acts as a catalyst in Cheryl's life as she seizes the opportunity to steer her family towards legitimacy.

The West family includes an amusingly unorthodox set of characters as Cheryl's children. There are the twins Logan and Calvin, portrayed by Patrick John Flueger. Logan is the noble, law-abiding son who is enrolled in law school, whereas his twin, Calvin, is a habitual criminal who lives life on his own terms. The contrast between the twins adds a delightful tension to the series.

The rest of the West siblings comprises of the witty and headstrong Heather and her younger brother, Hope. Heather, played by Leven Rambin, manages a nail salon and has a penchant for living life on the grand side, fuelled by her desire to breakaway from her family's reputation. On the other hand, there's Hope (Vanessa Marano), the youngest and smartest West child, who often surprises her family with her wit and insight.

Cheryl's staunch conviction in changing the family's reputation makes transformation an ongoing, challenging theme. The family is swung between their idiosyncratic ways and the desire to fit into societal norms. Their journey takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride, navigating through failed attempts at legitimacy, unexpected successes, relationship challenges, and an assortment of misadventures.

Aided by a sterling cast, Scoundrels is far from what you might call a conventional family drama. Instead, it takes pride in its thinly veiled anarchy, making it a delightful watch for those who enjoy humor and drama intermingled with a bit of crime. The West family's brazenness and audacity provide the laughs, keeping the audience entertained as they cheer for the family's transition to the straight and narrow path.

While based on an established series, Scoundrels creates its own charm and style. Its writing is packed with wry humor, drawing smiles and snickers at the quirkiest moments. The storyline is paced well, with events unfolding in a way that keeps viewers hooked. Further, the show's directors utilize a vivid palette of colors, making the series visually captivating.

The characters are crafted with care, endowing them with qualities that make them lovable despite their idiosyncrasies and outlaw tendencies. Watching Cheryl hold her family together despite the hurdles and with her sassy veneer is an absolute delight. Equally amusing is the bond between the twins or Heather's flamboyance, among others.

Interestingly, each episode of Scoundrels is titled after songs by The Rolling Stones, giving fans of classic rock something extra to look forward to. The series does an excellent job of blending humor with family dynamics, showcasing how even in the grimmest moments, one can find reasons to laugh.

Overall, ABC's Scoundrels is an engaging blend of comedy and drama, underpinned by a touch of crime. Whether you're in for the laughs, the family dynamics, or the stellar cast, this show offers a unique viewing experience that keeps you glued to your seat, always anticipating what the West family will get up to next.