Round Two: Outmatched

Outmatched: Season 1, Episode 2 “The Talk” (B)

I could tell when I watched the pilot of this show that it wasn’t going to be terribly sophisticated, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s rare to find network sitcoms that are actually enjoyable these days, and, when they’re funny enough, they’re harmless and refreshing compared to the most sophisticated concept series that are more plentiful at the moment. I don’t have strong affinity for Jason Biggs but enjoyed his work on “Orange is the New Black,” and I’ve been a big fan of Maggie Lawson’s since “Psych” and have been disappointed that none of her follow-up projects have lasted. The two of them are indeed giving this show their best effort, expressing their inability to cope with three of their children being infinitely more intelligent than them. Of course, the best thing to highlight in this case is the lack of street-smarts and life experience possessed by their little geniuses. Having their children respond by asking them what they wanted to know when they tried to have the sex talk was hilarious, and I love that their scientific descriptions ended up getting into their heads and knocking off their rhythm. Kay’s determination to start breaking bad didn’t last long, and they managed to get their groove back while their two oldest kids panicked about 3-D-printed mouths to practice kissing on and their general social incompetence. I don’t expect to watch this show too long, but for now, it’s not a bad way to spend half an hour.