Samantha Who?

Oh thank God the Monday-night doldrums are finally over. Out of sheer desperation, I tuned into to the new ABC comedy-slash-drama (I shun the word "dramedy" as cliche and trying too hard to be witty--like those celebrity merger names such as "bennifer" and "brangelina" which incidentally sounds very high in fiber) Samantha Who? starring Christina Applegate. Shockingly, I was pleasantly surprised. Although it's new and a show that could possibly become very old very fast (which seems more typical than not these days), the first episode ended and I wanted to continue to tune in, so that's gotta be a good sign. Here's why I think it's worthy for now:

1. The story may be formulaic but the beauty is we don't know it. For the same reason I love F/X's Damages, the facts of this show are doled out to the audience in little interesting pieces that cause the story to twist and turn in unexpected ways. Unlike Damages, however, this is attempting to be funny, not scary--which I appreciate. Whether or not it will be ultimately funny remains to be seen, but I wasn't repulsed by the initial attempt so that's probably a good sign.

2. Great supporting cast. There are some really big tv names showing up on this little newcomer. Of course, Christina Applegate (who's not supporting but actually the lead) has done some great tv in the past (Married...With Children, Jesse). I was also absolutely delighted to see Melissa McCarthy, who played Sookie St. James on Gilmore Girls in addition to Jennifer Esposito who made her tv debut on Spin City and carved a gaping hole in that show when she left (She also had an amazing turn in the movie Crash). Playing Samantha's parents in the show are Jean Smart of Designing Women fame (who is probably one of the most versatile actors I've ever seen) and Kevin Dunn who's played a lot of bit parts in movies. All are familiar faces who have proven to have some comedic timing and an ability to carry comedy throughout a show.

3. Christina Applegate showcases some great hair throughout the show. Her hair is just so *cute*. The little blonde ringlets and rumpled bed-head are almost enough motivation to keep tuning in. How do they get it to do that?

All in all, this show seems to have a little creativity, drama, and possibility for light drama--factors which, taken together, mean it will at very least be interesting. I'm just glad it doesn't follow typical ensemble sit-com format and suggests that the character Samantha had many layers--most not very nice. This dual character-within-a-character set-up compels me to watch at least one more show and then re-evaluate. Check it out: Monday's at 8:30 pm (CST) on ABC.