Our Score:

I'm a big fan of musicals of any sort, so when I saw the free pilot episode of Glee in iTunes last spring, I downloaded it right away without knowing what it was about.  Although there haven't been a lot of successful musicals on television - Cop Rock, anyone? - I hold out hope that one day a show will come along that will fill the void left when Rags to Riches went off the air in 1988.  Hey, a ChiX can dream, right?

Glee is a musical "dramady" that focuses on a struggling high school choir, or Glee Club.  The Glee Club is an eclectic group of high school misfits, and Matthew Morrison stars as teacher Wil Schuester, a former Glee Club member longing to relive his glory days and escape the drudgery of teaching and suburban life.  Although the premise might sound squeaky-clean, it quickly becomes apparent that this ain't no High School Musical.  Glee is cynical and charming, witty and ironic.  The quick-paced dialogue is full of nuance and innuendo, and the story lines are far-reaching, involving both the students and faculty.

My first impression was that the characters were very cliched and two dimensional, however as the season unfolds it becomes clear that they are meant to be satirical caricatures and not stereotypes.  The classic pitting of jocks against nerds, the colliding worlds of cool and decidedly uncool has a very John Hughes feel that is totally captivating.  The social struggles of the teenagers are paralleled in the story lines involving the school staff.  From the subtle "which lunch table do I sit at?" moments in the Teacher's Lounge to the continuing power struggle between Mr. Shuester's Glee Club and the "Cheerios" cheerleading coach, Sue Sylvester, adult viewers will be able to relate as well - if not better than - teenagers.  Wil Shuester is imperfect, irresistible and completely identifiable.  What appears on the surface as a formulaic premise is in fact a brilliant and witty social commentary, creatively blended with all the energy and enthusiasm of a musical.  The result is fresh, sophisticated and fun.

Matthew Morrison, with a background on Broadway, anchors the cast of young newcomers and is a solid actor, singer and dancer.  The performances are built into the story lines, as opposed to the characters randomly breaking out in song, which adds a sense of realism to the show.  In terms of musical numbers, Glee really does have something for everyone.  There is a variety of new and classic songs in each episode, from REO Speedwagon's "Can't Fight This Feeling" to Kanye West's "Gold Digger".  Every episode is sure to generate an "I love that song!" moment.

Glee is pure and utter escapism, without being television candy.  Young adult viewers will certainly make up a large portion of their demographics, but this show can't miss with those of us who grew up in the era of "The Breakfast Club", "Fame" and Journey.