What I’m Watching: Modern Family

Modern Family: Season 6, Episode 5 “Won’t You Be Our Neighbor” (C+)

This episode theoretically wasn’t as bad as other recent installments, mainly because its plotline wasn’t so formulaic and, for once, was actually quite literal. Talk about a formidable and diverse cast of guest stars, some of whom weren’t used to any comedic effect at all. Ben Lawson of “The Deep End” and Fiona Gubelmann of “Wilfred” were the couple that the Dunphys wanted to move in next door but accidentally scared away by making them think that they wanted to have a foursome. Steve Zahn of “Treme” and Andrea Anders of “Better Off Ted” were the extremely over-the-top, excessively loud and redneck couple that did end up moving in and may unfortunately grace our screens again in the future. On the more veteran side, Jon Polito, who I recognize but can’t peg which of his 200+ projects on IMDB I know him from, was Jay’s Closets, Closets, Closets nemesis Earl Chambers, and Tyne Daly, winner of many Emmys for “Judging Amy” and more, was Lily’s tyrannical teacher at school. It was good to see Cameron and Mitchell doing something different for a change, and their interactions with Daly’s aptly-named Mrs. Plank were decently entertaining. Jay’s closet references were also mildly enjoyable, and I’m just happy to see these characters’ professions put to good use since it seems like all we’ve heard about recently is Phil being a realtor and Cameron being a coach. Unfortunately, that’s all marred by the thought of the Dunphys’ new neighbors trying to encourage a foursome again.