Working the Engels

Working the Engels, which aired on NBC in 2014, is a unique blend of quirky humor and heartwarming moments. The sitcom is a co-production between American network NBC and Canada's Global Television. It's the result of a multifaceted collaboration between creative minds, shining a light on the Engels family and their attempts to keep going after a tragic event.

The series' main premise revolves around the Engels, a dysfunctional but endearing family whose life gets turned upside down when the patriarch of the family passes away. The Engels family, well-aware of their shortcomings, are forced to step out of their comfort zones to save the family-run law firm from crumbling. The storyline ensures that comedy and drama perfectly co-exist, offering a television show that is as captivating as it is relatable and entertaining.

The Engels family is led by Ceil Engel, played by Andrea Martin, a comedic powerhouse known for her work on SCTV. Ceil is an eccentric widow tasked with the responsibility of holding her family together while also dealing with her own grief and insecurities. With her signature charm and humor, Martin instills life into Ceil, making her a brilliantly believable character.

Jenna Engel, portrayed by Kacey Rohl, is the only member of the family who is an actual lawyer. Struggling to establish her career in the face of her mother’s overbearing presence and her family’s antics, Jenna becomes the backbone of the operation, juggling her familial responsibilities with her professional ambitions. Rohl expertly balances Jenna's commitment to her family and her rising frustration with their constant meddling.

Azura Skye plays Sandy Engel, the elder daughter who has a history of questionable career choices. Her previous experience as a 'self-help' guru adds to the show's comedic elements and contributes to the family's unusual dynamic.

Jimmy Engel, played by Benjamin Arthur, is the 'black sheep' of the family. His misguided attempts to help and his ventures into the criminal underworld only add to the chaos. Arthur brings a loveable clumsiness to Jimmy's character, making his antics a joy to watch.

With each episode of Working the Engels, viewers delve deeper into the life and trials of the Engels family as they navigate the daunting world of law, trying their best to save their family's legacy. Despite their many issues, the Engels come together in surprisingly heartwarming ways, often at the most unexpected moments.

A subsidiary storyline worth mentioning is the family's effort to cater to their unique clientele. As the Engels take on unusual cases and try their best to provide legal services, they find themselves pushed to their limits, venturing into uncharted territories, and hilarity ensues.

The show is adeptly written by Katie Ford and Jane Ford, whose writing prowess is evident in the series' ability to maintain a delicate balance between comedy and drama. Their vision is brought to life by director Keith Samples, whose discerning eye for detail plays a substantial role in the series' success.

In terms of tone, Working the Engels is a light, breezy sitcom made to gather the family around the TV for a good laugh. It is a wholesome comedy that provides humor but also offers an emotional attachment to its characters. The important life messages it subtly delivers through well-crafted humor and clever storyline make it a worthwhile watch.

To conclude, Working the Engels is more than just a sitcom; it is a show about family, their struggles, their unity in harsh times, and above all, their love for each other. With its engaging cast, distinct humor, and relatable characters, the series successfully delivers an entertaining viewing experience. Whether you're a fan of thought-provoking drama or simply need a hearty laugh, Working the Engels is recommended viewing.