What I’m Watching: Modern Family

Modern Family: Season 1, Episode 13 “Fifteen Percent” (B+)

This show seems to be very accurate in tackling the family of today and fulfilling the promise of its title. This week’s central storyline involving Phil and Claire hits the spot in terms of capturing family dynamics where the husband purchases some exciting new electronic item and, for whatever reason, isn’t able to explain how it works or how to operate it to his wife. What’s wonderful about this seemingly simple plot is that this show works in both an entertaining competition involving the parents’ dumbest child and achieves a dramatic conclusion out of the whole thing. That’s extremely impressive, and this also isn’t the only time that happens in this episode. Mitchell’s genuine surprise and happiness after hearing that his father tried to let his potentially gay friend know that it was okay to come out of the closet was nice to see, and was perfectly followed up on by their terribly awkward attempt at a manly hug. Jay hanging out with his buddies on the sidewalk was very reminiscent of “The Sopranos,” and it was just something new since, to this point, Jay didn’t seem to do much with his life or have many friends. Cameron does a wondrous job of making people uncomfortable, and his accidental flirtation at the end of the episode with Manny’s date was a great capper. It was fantastic to see Kristen Schaal in a guest spot on this show, especially since it was recently announced that “Flight of the Conchords” won’t be back for a third season. The way that Gloria and Manny interact both with each other and other people, and the way that they get so excited about everything, is just so hilarious, and it’s great to see them making the lives of others all the more awkward.