Smilf

This show both stands and falls by the fact that its lead wrote the script and it is based on their life experiences.

On the one hand this makes it a well acted and introspective look at the life and struggles of a single mother, with some original takes on everyday situations and it certainly has a lot to say. On the other hand though there are some things that are a little too self-indulgent or one-sided, and while this may be an unpopular opinion, the perceivable age difference between the creator and the character is somewhat jarring. It comes across like the lead should be a woman in her early 20s, but instead of casting someone of the age appropriate to the story she is trying to tell, she instead cast herself, which may be more ego in this case than anything else. (It was the initial noticing of this that made me question if it was written by the actress in the first place, as the choice would seem strange for any other reason)

Overall this is another example of good modern writing, giving a personal perspective that is interesting and generally entertaining. The show has a nice raw quality that is worth something, it's just possible that the creator should have taken herself out of the equation and cast a more fitting lead. (I'm the same age as the lead and if I was casting a young single father I would go for someone 10 years younger than myself, this isn't about gender, it's about accuracy)

First - I don't care what anyone has to say about Rosie O'Donnell, she is still a terrific actress and comedian with AMAZING timing - and this show more than proves it. EMMY AWARD WINNING Performance, mos def. Second - Frankie Shaw's acting abilities and gorgeous face made me melt WAAAAAAAY WAY WAY before SMILF even aired on Showtime. Brilliant barely scratches the surface when it comes to this girls talents, on screen and on paper. Wow! She wrote the perfect role for herself and its A Maze...zing! Third - Truly, this show is great. I have never laughed so hard at moments in a comedic show before. It's brilliant, well timed, humor is fresh, slick, and often inappropriate. I love it! I find myself already quoting this show - there's so many hilarious moments.

I found some scenes hard to watch, but that's what makes this show great. Frankie Shaw is amazing and real. (Where did she come from??) The role of Tutu was made for Rosie O'Donnell; she's loud, sad, rough and incredible. I'm two episodes in and I believe this show has such promise...can't wait for more.

I'm really glad I didn't read the reviews before I watched this.

I can see why it's not to everyone's liking - it's a bit close to the mark at times and could be seen as distasteful. There is some dodgy parenting, no punches pulled; but it's honest and interesting, funny and human.

The second series is more mature and more rounded.

Episode 9 is particularly relevant from a female perspective.

Rosie O'Donnell is not one of my favourite actresses but I have new- found respect for her as she is excellent as the Bridgette's mum and in my opinion she makes the programme that much better.

I recommend you give it a try.

I honestly did not expect much figuring that this was a Shameless knockoff just trying to out-shock what shocking things Shameless brings us each week. But I was wrong. The writing is wonderful, bringing unexpected storyline twists in each episode and quickly building viewer empathy for the characters who are caught up in life, but have dreams, and making us care about them. The acting is great, delivering some of Rosie's best work. Gritty, edgy, whatever you want to call it, this is not the same old crappy filler between commercials that is delivered so often.