Derek

Two Disney Channel shows break the mold of typical Disney fare--that is it does not look canned, packaged, and wrapped in the same box (with many of the same actors (duh) and scripts).

Life With Derek breaks the Disney mold (as does Phil of the Future). The show has plausible situations, like step-siblings involved in sneaky plots, or real relationship troubles.

Life With Derek does not have the stars always winning, having fabulous careers at the age of 12, or moving into the White House. The stars aren't always in new clothes, the house isn't in perfect order (or in the best neighborhood) and the kids cry and complain like people in real life.

What bothers me about the Disney Channel is personified by such candy trash as High School Musical (or anything with Cordon Bleu). What I like about Disney is Derek and Phil.

The United States is famously suspicious of its quiet neighbors to the north. So I'm particularly pleased that Disney is distributing "Life With Derek" in the U.S. The show is well-written, well-acted, and clever (in other words, expect a speedy cancellation). Step-siblings Casey and Derek are excellently portrayed as well-rounded teenagers capable of doing both good and evil (while still remaining consistent and in character). While it would be impossible to expect a family program to capture the savageness that characterizes real adolescent life, the show goes a good deal further than most, displaying welcome flashes of mean-spirited fun in its portrayal of siblings maneuvering for the upper hand against one another. If we're going to blame Canada, it's only fair to also give them credit when credit is due.

This is a great show with superb acting. Ashley Leggat(Casey) portrays her character wonderfully, and Michael Seater (Derek) is perfect for the role of a rebellious (and don't forget good-looking) teenager. Ariel Walker(Marty) is absolutely adorable, and is a natural for her role of Marty, a fussy young toddler. David Madger(Edwin) and Jordan Todosey (Lizzie), who act as secret allies in this show, look like they really enjoy playing their parts, and makes the show fun to watch. This is a great family show many people can relate too. Casey and Derek's constant fighting add a lot of laughs to this overall great show. I give Life With Derek two thumbs up!

I think this is my favorite show on Disney Channel. First off, they casted everyone PERFECTLY!Second, the characters are all cool. Derek is so lazy and careless its hilarious. Casey is so up tight that when she let's loose it's funny. Marti is so dang cute that you just want to pinch her cheeks. Edwin is always trying to be like Derek, so he is pretty funny. Lizzie is going through puberty crises ALL the time and it's funny to watch her be so clueless. The parents are always trying to act "cool" or "hip" and they are NOT! Anyways, this show is awesome. Just watch a few episodes...you'll be hooked!I give it a 10 out of a 10!!!!!

What a refreshing change from what you are used to seeing on the Disney Channel. It's zany like Malcom in the Middle with a "Brady Bunch" format. This show presents itself as a family drama and a comedy at the same time. It brings forth family crisis and conflicts that could easily happen with any family and adds a strong touch of humor. In the word of the immortal Howard Cosell, "it tells it like it is." Well directed, with a strong cast, this show is one of the best that Disney has aired. Daniel Magder (Edwin) and Jordan Todosay (Lizzie) are cast as the "unsung heroes" and they pull it off effortlessly. I'm really looking forward to season two!