Family Tools

Family Tools is an American comedy series that traces a charmingly dysfunctional family working together to keep their home repair business afloat. Following its premiere in 2013, the show graced the airwaves of ABC for one season, gathering a dedicated fanbase who appreciated its wholesome humor, affable characters, and relatable storylines.

Inspired by the British sitcom "White Van Man," Family Tools centers around Jack Shea (portrayed by Kyle Bornheimer) – a perpetual screw-up who is given a chance to prove himself when his heart condition forces his father Tony (played by J.K. Simmons) to hand over the keys to their family-owned handyman business, Mr. Jiffy Fix. Jack is well-meaning and likeable, but his blundering clumsiness often lands him in hilarious predicaments. His endless supply of misplaced enthusiasm, coupled with his track record of failure, creates an atmosphere of light-hearted calamity that forms the backbone of the series.

As Jack attempts to fill his father's shoes and revive the struggling business, he comes face-to-face with his inability to handle power tools, hostile customers, and high expectations. Keeping the family business running becomes a never-ending stream of misadventures, leaving the audience rooting for the underdog in a barrage of comedic situations.

Besides Jack and Tony, the show features a host of other characters who add their own quirky charm and comedic flavor to the series. J.K. Simmons is superb as Tony Shea, delivering a grounded portrayal of the gruff father grappling with the frustration of having to step back due to ailing health. His push-pull relationship with Jack forms an endearing and hilarious dynamic that becomes the emotional anchor of the series.

Edi Gathegi brings life to Darren, Jack's easy-going and practical friend who is at his side through thick and thin. Darren is a beacon of calm amidst the ensuing chaos, offering Jack practical advice delivered in deadpan humor. Then there is assistant cousin Mason (Johnny Pemberton), whose unconventional wisdom and strange ways add a bright, offbeat element that only reinforces the show's peculiarity.

Celebrated actress Leah Remini portrays Tony's sister Terry, a brash yet loving character. Her can-do approach and relentless optimism serve as crucial encouragement for Jack, defending him against Tony’s withering disapproval.

Family Tools is not just about comedy and hijinks -- it delivers hearty emotional moments too. The story arc, while funny, embeds a familiar theme – an underdog trying his hardest to keep afloat in a world that doesn’t really believe in him, a son striving to meet the expectations of his father. The series flourishes in this delicate balance, using humor to lighten the weight of these poignant moments.

Underneath the comedy, Family Tools explores the complexities of family bonds - the highs and lows, the frustrations and love, and the common ground that keeps everyone together through their trials and tribulations. Through its unique take on the genre, it offers a glimpse into the life of a small family business, speaking to the perseverance and closeness such environment breeds - adding a depth that sets it apart from other sitcoms.

The show’s fast-paced humor and gag-lit scenes are underpinned by sharp, witty writing and excellent comedic timing across the cast. The series cleverly uses physical comedy to amplify the hijinks, taking mundane tasks like hanging a picture frame or fixing a leaky faucet and turning them into an arena for endless calamity.

Incredibly entertaining and wonderfully light-hearted, Family Tools showcases a likeable ensemble cast that uses humor and heart to navigate the bumpy road of life. Each episode introduces a new challenge to be solved, a problem to be fixed, both literally and symbolically, further underscoring this lovable misfit family's struggle, growth, and unity. With grand slapstick comedy, a dash of emotional insight, and an endearingly flawed set of characters, Family Tools presents a funny, sincere, and quirky family sitcom.