5 out of 5

Director: Various Always Sunny regulars

From the very first episode, this show proved to be something different. Taking taboo topics and being funny about them isn’t necessarily new, but the Always Sunny crew re-energizes it with a brilliant combination of shallowness and innocence. And in almost every episode – even as I write this, through the fifth season – there is some degree of inventiveness that I have not spotted on other shows. Some willingness to just try something, smart or stupid. The key, I think, can be found in the commentary on one of the episodes from season 1 & 2 – Rob (Mac) remarks that no one finds them funnier than themselves. That is the main charm. These would appear to be a true group of friends who really just enjoy making the show. And while it’s sad to see their writing and directing credit disappear over the course of the seasons, the essence still remains strong, and I assume it’s because of their direct involvement via ad-libbing or suggestions. Anyhow, the moment from episode 1: As Charlie is called out on dating someone of a different race just to prove he is not racist, the girl asks, “Charlie: Is this true?” To which Charlie pauses, then responds: “…Would that upset you?” Most shows would have cut away after his pause, or had his character deny it. Again: shallowness and innocence. Genius. Arrested Development is amazing, the Office is funny, but Always Sunny is the ONLY reason I care about TV.