A blend of slapstick and fantasy, Seth MacFarlane's FAMILY GUY -- resurrected for network broadcast after being cancelled and then becoming a huge hit on DVD -- is a television show within a television show. Often, viewers see patriarch Peter Griffin (voiced by MacFarlane) having visions that look like flashes of TV shows -- almost like animated channel surfing. As a plot device, this can serve as a distraction, which ultimately disrupts what might be a storyline. On the other hand, the constant cross-references to musicals, literature, plays, and other TV shows might amuse some viewers. Of course, if viewers don't get the references, they might come across as offensive -- but then again, viewers might get offended anyway. Don't expect consistent content from this show. Some of the characters are certainly unique in TV land -- Stewie the infant (MacFarlane again) spews vitriolic one-liners as he throws his bottle across the room. Brian the dog (yup, MacFarlane does his voice, too) is a sensitive, well-read fellow who enjoys his wine. Dad Peter, however, doesn't stand out strongly as a father figure, even if he is a parody of himself. Some very lewd behavior means it might be wise for parents to preview a few episodes of Family Guy to see if it's appropriate viewing for the rest of the household. This wacky brand of fast-paced humor certainly isn't for everyone.
