I'm still so angry this was canceled!! The storyline, the characters, the acting, everything was so good. Andrew McCarthy (Hank Asher) was especially phenomenal. I'd pay a billion and a half dollars to reboot it.
52 Reviews
The Family
reddskyy23 May 2018
So good but so irritating
curlycue-5254315 October 2018
Very Good!
katiepennington-5502915 May 2016
I can not believe they canceled this show. I am very upset. They should have at least wrapped everything up in the last episode in the season finale. Overall I believe the acting is great and I do not understand why this show has such low ratings. Shows such as Pretty Little Liars have been running on ABC for years and the acting is sub par. All I want is there to be a episode concluding the whole series and explaining the outcome. You can not cancel a show on a cliff hanger, it is just upsetting. I personally know multiple people who loved this show and thought it was quality content. I know there are many reviews stating the actor is bad but you have to look at the story of the show.
I WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS
justpeel_it10 July 2018
Really liked this series...doesn't make sense ABC cancelled it, just lower the budget for s2 and bump it up again if that goes well. Great acting, intriguing story - an unsolved mystery, that just looks stupid by ABC.
Ridicules nonsense in the pilot (Spoilers if you have not seen the pilot yet)
boudicea19673 March 2016
Warning: Spoilers
I thought it seemed as if it was going to be a really descent. A story that people could follow. A family with a mother with political aspirations with the support of her family, until their youngest child disappears and is presumed dead and the case gets "solved" by an ambition officer who railroads a neighbor. Then after 10 years, he returns. Also thought that it would be interesting because it would show the hardships, struggles and obstacles they will face to return as close to the family they were.
It did not give a time-line as to when the mother because mayor so it is possible that she did not run for any office but decided to in lieu of her son's disappearance or it could have been the motivation behind her wanting to be in a position where she can actually help. The double standard is alive and well because if it had been the father who was in office and not the mother, she would not be considered, how did the husband put it? A "machine" and I might add that he is a selfish Pr*ck because his son is not the way he remembers him to be. The father is rather useless and very self serving.
A couple of things did strike me as odd. For instance, the boy was rather calm and did not seem to display any symptoms of PTSD which is something he would have had a least bit of given that it is suggested that he endured years of abuse, physical, sexual and probably psychological to a very big degree. He seemed to adjust to life with his family very quickly.
Another one is that the mother, who is now the mayor of the city, wants to run for governor even though her son and her entire family are going to have a very hard, lengthy healing period. That also strikes me as being very odd to say the least.
Then you have the brother and sister both engulfed in their coping skills one by religion and the other by self medicating. The father, well, no one knows about him because he just seems like a character they put there because they needed a male parental unit.
Now, I think this has to be the biggest, craziest, ridicules and in my view the most unnecessary part of the show: The arresting officer who "solved" the case is in the interrogating room when the father comes in and suddenly they get all twisted around with each other and decide they will have sex in the interrogating room, why? just because. Never mind that the police station does not close and anyone could walk into the interrogation room and get an eye full. But, we also see that she has a bottle of alcohol (guessing again here) in their with her and is gulping it down. I do not even think alcohol is allowed on the premises of a police station except for special occasions where one of them gets a bottle of wine as a gift. I am also pretty sure that she would not be allowed to take it into the interrogation room and start drinking because we do not know if she is on duty or off. If someone knows differently, then please share. I guess they both needed to cope.
Then, it has been suggested that the kid is lying and might be playing some game or is doing something for some unknown person for reasons I cannot imagine, or for kicks and giggles. Of course we also have the ex girlfriend or friend with benefit who is either wanting to be this great investigative journalist who wants to get to the truth of the matter or works at some sleazy rag like TMZ and has to get her jollies from finding out dirt she can use to print in her sad excuse of a paper or magazine or whatever it is.
So, now I do not know if this is worth seeing because of the things I mentioned or if it is worth finding out more. I will rate it, but really, I do not feel I should because I am undecided.
It did not give a time-line as to when the mother because mayor so it is possible that she did not run for any office but decided to in lieu of her son's disappearance or it could have been the motivation behind her wanting to be in a position where she can actually help. The double standard is alive and well because if it had been the father who was in office and not the mother, she would not be considered, how did the husband put it? A "machine" and I might add that he is a selfish Pr*ck because his son is not the way he remembers him to be. The father is rather useless and very self serving.
A couple of things did strike me as odd. For instance, the boy was rather calm and did not seem to display any symptoms of PTSD which is something he would have had a least bit of given that it is suggested that he endured years of abuse, physical, sexual and probably psychological to a very big degree. He seemed to adjust to life with his family very quickly.
Another one is that the mother, who is now the mayor of the city, wants to run for governor even though her son and her entire family are going to have a very hard, lengthy healing period. That also strikes me as being very odd to say the least.
Then you have the brother and sister both engulfed in their coping skills one by religion and the other by self medicating. The father, well, no one knows about him because he just seems like a character they put there because they needed a male parental unit.
Now, I think this has to be the biggest, craziest, ridicules and in my view the most unnecessary part of the show: The arresting officer who "solved" the case is in the interrogating room when the father comes in and suddenly they get all twisted around with each other and decide they will have sex in the interrogating room, why? just because. Never mind that the police station does not close and anyone could walk into the interrogation room and get an eye full. But, we also see that she has a bottle of alcohol (guessing again here) in their with her and is gulping it down. I do not even think alcohol is allowed on the premises of a police station except for special occasions where one of them gets a bottle of wine as a gift. I am also pretty sure that she would not be allowed to take it into the interrogation room and start drinking because we do not know if she is on duty or off. If someone knows differently, then please share. I guess they both needed to cope.
Then, it has been suggested that the kid is lying and might be playing some game or is doing something for some unknown person for reasons I cannot imagine, or for kicks and giggles. Of course we also have the ex girlfriend or friend with benefit who is either wanting to be this great investigative journalist who wants to get to the truth of the matter or works at some sleazy rag like TMZ and has to get her jollies from finding out dirt she can use to print in her sad excuse of a paper or magazine or whatever it is.
So, now I do not know if this is worth seeing because of the things I mentioned or if it is worth finding out more. I will rate it, but really, I do not feel I should because I am undecided.
Problematic show
blanche-24 April 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Let me start by saying this show could be better. It's not horrible. It has Joan Allen and Rupert Graves in the leads -- how bad can it be?
I believe the idea for this show came from a mind-boggling documentary, The Imposter, a true story. See it if you can. You'll never say anything is unbelievable again.
Having said that, some of this series doesn't ring true on an emotional level. The main thing for me is this political campaign the mother is running for governor. It doesn't take a stretch of the imagination to realize the pressure people who are running for office are under, or the hectic schedule they have. Here this kid, missing for 10 years, has come home, and the family is in chaos. I mean, doesn't she even want to spend any time with him?
Also - and this is my problem - I'm humiliated to even write this, but I have a problem telling some of the characters apart. The casting directors liked certain types and sort of overdid casting them.
People say they have trouble telling so and so and so and so apart and I always find that strange - because I know the actors! Some of these people I'm not that familiar with, and sorting them out with that dark lighting has been difficult.
I'm going to stick with it, though I don't know if it will have a season 2. I imagine with a show like this, it will have to have some finality. The way it's going, it doesn't look like a second season is in the wings as it's moving fairly quickly.
I believe the idea for this show came from a mind-boggling documentary, The Imposter, a true story. See it if you can. You'll never say anything is unbelievable again.
Having said that, some of this series doesn't ring true on an emotional level. The main thing for me is this political campaign the mother is running for governor. It doesn't take a stretch of the imagination to realize the pressure people who are running for office are under, or the hectic schedule they have. Here this kid, missing for 10 years, has come home, and the family is in chaos. I mean, doesn't she even want to spend any time with him?
Also - and this is my problem - I'm humiliated to even write this, but I have a problem telling some of the characters apart. The casting directors liked certain types and sort of overdid casting them.
People say they have trouble telling so and so and so and so apart and I always find that strange - because I know the actors! Some of these people I'm not that familiar with, and sorting them out with that dark lighting has been difficult.
I'm going to stick with it, though I don't know if it will have a season 2. I imagine with a show like this, it will have to have some finality. The way it's going, it doesn't look like a second season is in the wings as it's moving fairly quickly.
Why was this cancelled?!
miinty18 January 2018
I just found this show two days ago... and finished it in that time!
I am so hooked! I NEED to know what was gonna happen? But more than that, I need to know how it was gonna happen..
Jenna Bans, release the scripts.. or write the scripts and release them.. Do it for the fans!
This Show Dies Without Andrew McCarthy
jasonkzimmermann10 May 2016
The story line is enough to want me to watch a new episode, but the show is predictable in some ways and absurd in others. The acting is marginal, except for Andrew McCarthy, who does a good job. I think that some of the writing is in place specifically to trick the viewer, but it's generally too contrived to effectively attain that goal. Several obvious solutions to problems are ignored for the sake of having the characters make the most extreme decisions.
It's a nice show, but it's really helped with an actor like Andrew McCarthy who has a recognizable name. Other than that, it's an interesting idea with mediocre execution. With all that said, it's passable in terms of viewership.
It's a nice show, but it's really helped with an actor like Andrew McCarthy who has a recognizable name. Other than that, it's an interesting idea with mediocre execution. With all that said, it's passable in terms of viewership.
a season 2 please
lelene_cherie14 May 2017
Hello! I am french, my English is bad but i try : I very like this series. an original story, good suspense, very good actors, surprising character's reaction. characters whom inspired doubt, pity or incomprehension. I give 9 and not 10 because of the relation between the father and the policewoman, it was not necessary. I has never missed an episode. I wish a season 2, please!!!!!
A bit disappointing...
aguilarellenam7 June 2016
Warning: Spoilers
The Family encompasses the tragic, yet interesting story of a family who lost its youngest member Adam Warren. The family, after having assumed that Adam was murdered, are shocked to hear of his return and quickly welcome him into the family. The plot from this point onward becomes very clear: find out who kidnapped and assaulted Adam and put him behind bars.
Sounds interesting, but overall, was pretty mediocre. The mystery was too simple and very predictable. The kidnapper was obviously incredibly intelligent, but there wasn't very much that we learn about him throughout the entirety of the show. The same with Adam, regardless of the fact that the series centers around him, there isn't much depth in the portrayal of personality and we, as the viewers, are thrown random tidbits of how he behaved as an 8-year-old: such as the hatred of the smell of eggs and the stuffed monkey. Also, that "red dragon breathing fire right at me" thing was never really cleared up, as were many things that sporadically occur and never get any more coverage.
The story, however, was relatively easy to follow, and I somewhat enjoyed the jump cuts back in time to show what occurred 10 years ago versus present day; although those transitions could have used a little work. Story-wise, I feel that everything that occurred was very unrelieved and in some instances, loosely connecting. It seemed that for some plot points, more detail should have been provided before forcing it on the viewer. I only truly enjoyed the very last few minutes of the series as it was very unexpected. However, again, it felt as though some things needed to be expanded, on which I'm assuming was the purpose.
In total, I feel as though this show was a watered down attempt at a detective show and left more to be desired. The plot was interesting, but the delivery was a bit disappointing. Also, what was with them constantly saying "I googled it"?? Was it an attempt at "getting with the times", or what?
I gave this series a 7 out of 10 because it was pretty entertaining, but felt too much like a watered down version of Broadchurch. They bare a lot of resemblance, save for the fact that the quality of this show is muck lower.
Sounds interesting, but overall, was pretty mediocre. The mystery was too simple and very predictable. The kidnapper was obviously incredibly intelligent, but there wasn't very much that we learn about him throughout the entirety of the show. The same with Adam, regardless of the fact that the series centers around him, there isn't much depth in the portrayal of personality and we, as the viewers, are thrown random tidbits of how he behaved as an 8-year-old: such as the hatred of the smell of eggs and the stuffed monkey. Also, that "red dragon breathing fire right at me" thing was never really cleared up, as were many things that sporadically occur and never get any more coverage.
The story, however, was relatively easy to follow, and I somewhat enjoyed the jump cuts back in time to show what occurred 10 years ago versus present day; although those transitions could have used a little work. Story-wise, I feel that everything that occurred was very unrelieved and in some instances, loosely connecting. It seemed that for some plot points, more detail should have been provided before forcing it on the viewer. I only truly enjoyed the very last few minutes of the series as it was very unexpected. However, again, it felt as though some things needed to be expanded, on which I'm assuming was the purpose.
In total, I feel as though this show was a watered down attempt at a detective show and left more to be desired. The plot was interesting, but the delivery was a bit disappointing. Also, what was with them constantly saying "I googled it"?? Was it an attempt at "getting with the times", or what?
I gave this series a 7 out of 10 because it was pretty entertaining, but felt too much like a watered down version of Broadchurch. They bare a lot of resemblance, save for the fact that the quality of this show is muck lower.
Taut and Captivating
Pickwick123 March 2016
Finally, a mainstream US network series comes close to the excellence of international mystery hits. Reminiscent of Broadchurch and the true-life story depicted in The Imposter, The Family has an excellent atmosphere of tension, alternating between police, victim, and family perspectives to produce a suspenseful and layered story that leaves the viewer confused in a good way, intrigued, and wanting more.
Not a perfect series but a very good one, The Family has a strong cast and an interesting story. Well worth a look for mystery lovers and those who enjoy a well- acted, immersive experience that is far superior to most network television series. Suspect everyone; suspect no one, then suspect everyone again, and enjoy the ride.
Not a perfect series but a very good one, The Family has a strong cast and an interesting story. Well worth a look for mystery lovers and those who enjoy a well- acted, immersive experience that is far superior to most network television series. Suspect everyone; suspect no one, then suspect everyone again, and enjoy the ride.
Memorable and Disturbing
Miles-1013 April 2021
Five years ago, this series was cancelled, and yet it still haunts me. There were things about it that I liked and things I did not. It was a bit of a melodrama, which could be off-putting, and it was rather perverse, which could also be off-putting but also, like the distress of witnessing a road accident, made it difficult to look away from.
For those who do not know, the plot centers on a woman named Claire Warren (Joan Allen) who is the mayor of a small town (supposedly in the U. S. state of Maine, although there is nothing about the people or place that says "Maine" to me, and I grew up in nearby Massachusetts). She is also the mother of three children, one of whom, Adam, has been missing and presumed murdered for ten years. (The name, Adam, perhaps unfortunately, echoes that of Adam Walsh, a boy whose abduction and murder, along with the subsequent case of a girl named Amber Hagerman, contributed to increased systematic and rigorous responses to child abduction in the U. S. and, perhaps, to similar emergency protocols in other countries.)
Claire is contemplating a run for governor of Maine when a youth claiming to be Adam (Liam James) appears at her home, dredging up unpleasant memories for the family. Also, each character is apprehensive about whether this youth is really the long-lost Adam. They must reevaluate how the original loss affected their behavior in its aftermath as well as how it still down to the present day. Not only does Claire partially owe her election as mayor to being the mother of an abducted child, but her husband, John (Rupert Graves), owes his success as an author to a book about surviving the loss of a child.
BTW although one might think that this plot is improbable, there are documented cases of people who may have been long-lost relatives turning up and being believed by some and doubted by others. An old documented case of this sort was the basis for The Return of Martin Guerre (1982).
One of the many disturbing characters is Hank (Andrew McCarthy) who, although actually a pedophile, was wrongly convicted of the kidnap and murder of Adam nine years before.
Disturbingly, the viewer is invited to feel both sympathy and repulsion toward Hank who, as a registered sex offender, is forced to take a drug that chemically "castrates" him. He therefore cannot develop a socially and legally more acceptable relationship with an adult even though he tries. Still, the viewer is justified in not feeling too sorry for him because he feels sorry enough for himself.
Indeed, one of the creepiest and therefore most memorable lines in the series belongs to Hank. When someone questions him about whether he saw the real abductor, he describes the way a strange man was looking at the boy. He is then asked how he noticed and remembered this man's behavior so vividly. "Because I was looking too," says Hank.
Naturally, the detective (Margot Bingham) who made her career by making sure that Hank went to prison is not looking as good as she once did to those around or to herself. Adding to the soap opera, she is still haunted by the affair she had with John, Claire's husband and Adam's father.
Nobody in Adam's family is dealing well with the return. The mother is even reminded of her anger at-of all people-Adam, precisely because she thought she had taught him never to trust strangers or to go off with them. She feels guilty for blaming the victim but cannot help herself.
In the two children who remained, now young adults, Adam's return rekindles the old guilt they felt because they were supposed to be watching their brother on that fateful day. Willa (Alison Pill) and Danny (Zach Gilford), the adult children, seem the most sympathetic to me, but only because their flaws and weaknesses are traceable to a horrible and public family tragedy that brought them unwanted attention and guilt at vulnerable ages. They were innocent, and now they feel so bad about themselves that they are the only characters who probably feel worse than they deserve.
The ultimate mystery: who is the youth who claims to be their long-lost loved one if he isn't who he says he is? How else does he know some things that identify him as Adam, yet occasionally does not remember other things? Where has he been all these years, and why can he not help investigators to locate the place where he was kept or identify the man who kept him there?
Then there is the journalist, Bridey Cruz (Floriana Lima), a particularly irredeemable character who does not care who she has to hurt (or sleep with) to get the dirt on the Warren family. In an era when the erstwhile stigma of being gay or lesbian has been dramatically rehabilitated, Cruz incorporates her bi-sexual fluidity in her armamentarium of ways to manipulate people, including Willa who, arguably, is the most vulnerable of all the vulnerable characters.
My theory as to why this series was cancelled is that too many viewers did not watch because they were turned off by the unpleasantness of the subject as well as the lack of any truly sympathetic characters. If you think that any character is virtuous, just wait, and you will learn that they have less than admirable qualities.
The series ends on a cliffhanger, but it is an ending that definitively answers most of the major questions, and although it suggests that more would be in store for a continued narrative, I am not disappointed that the story ends there. Rest assured that the Big Bad is dead; long live the (new) Big Bad.
For those who do not know, the plot centers on a woman named Claire Warren (Joan Allen) who is the mayor of a small town (supposedly in the U. S. state of Maine, although there is nothing about the people or place that says "Maine" to me, and I grew up in nearby Massachusetts). She is also the mother of three children, one of whom, Adam, has been missing and presumed murdered for ten years. (The name, Adam, perhaps unfortunately, echoes that of Adam Walsh, a boy whose abduction and murder, along with the subsequent case of a girl named Amber Hagerman, contributed to increased systematic and rigorous responses to child abduction in the U. S. and, perhaps, to similar emergency protocols in other countries.)
Claire is contemplating a run for governor of Maine when a youth claiming to be Adam (Liam James) appears at her home, dredging up unpleasant memories for the family. Also, each character is apprehensive about whether this youth is really the long-lost Adam. They must reevaluate how the original loss affected their behavior in its aftermath as well as how it still down to the present day. Not only does Claire partially owe her election as mayor to being the mother of an abducted child, but her husband, John (Rupert Graves), owes his success as an author to a book about surviving the loss of a child.
BTW although one might think that this plot is improbable, there are documented cases of people who may have been long-lost relatives turning up and being believed by some and doubted by others. An old documented case of this sort was the basis for The Return of Martin Guerre (1982).
One of the many disturbing characters is Hank (Andrew McCarthy) who, although actually a pedophile, was wrongly convicted of the kidnap and murder of Adam nine years before.
Disturbingly, the viewer is invited to feel both sympathy and repulsion toward Hank who, as a registered sex offender, is forced to take a drug that chemically "castrates" him. He therefore cannot develop a socially and legally more acceptable relationship with an adult even though he tries. Still, the viewer is justified in not feeling too sorry for him because he feels sorry enough for himself.
Indeed, one of the creepiest and therefore most memorable lines in the series belongs to Hank. When someone questions him about whether he saw the real abductor, he describes the way a strange man was looking at the boy. He is then asked how he noticed and remembered this man's behavior so vividly. "Because I was looking too," says Hank.
Naturally, the detective (Margot Bingham) who made her career by making sure that Hank went to prison is not looking as good as she once did to those around or to herself. Adding to the soap opera, she is still haunted by the affair she had with John, Claire's husband and Adam's father.
Nobody in Adam's family is dealing well with the return. The mother is even reminded of her anger at-of all people-Adam, precisely because she thought she had taught him never to trust strangers or to go off with them. She feels guilty for blaming the victim but cannot help herself.
In the two children who remained, now young adults, Adam's return rekindles the old guilt they felt because they were supposed to be watching their brother on that fateful day. Willa (Alison Pill) and Danny (Zach Gilford), the adult children, seem the most sympathetic to me, but only because their flaws and weaknesses are traceable to a horrible and public family tragedy that brought them unwanted attention and guilt at vulnerable ages. They were innocent, and now they feel so bad about themselves that they are the only characters who probably feel worse than they deserve.
The ultimate mystery: who is the youth who claims to be their long-lost loved one if he isn't who he says he is? How else does he know some things that identify him as Adam, yet occasionally does not remember other things? Where has he been all these years, and why can he not help investigators to locate the place where he was kept or identify the man who kept him there?
Then there is the journalist, Bridey Cruz (Floriana Lima), a particularly irredeemable character who does not care who she has to hurt (or sleep with) to get the dirt on the Warren family. In an era when the erstwhile stigma of being gay or lesbian has been dramatically rehabilitated, Cruz incorporates her bi-sexual fluidity in her armamentarium of ways to manipulate people, including Willa who, arguably, is the most vulnerable of all the vulnerable characters.
My theory as to why this series was cancelled is that too many viewers did not watch because they were turned off by the unpleasantness of the subject as well as the lack of any truly sympathetic characters. If you think that any character is virtuous, just wait, and you will learn that they have less than admirable qualities.
The series ends on a cliffhanger, but it is an ending that definitively answers most of the major questions, and although it suggests that more would be in store for a continued narrative, I am not disappointed that the story ends there. Rest assured that the Big Bad is dead; long live the (new) Big Bad.
Unbelievable Characters & Casting Leads To Holes
LouieInLove3 March 2016
For a show of this nature it's vitally important that the characters are believable. Sadly 'The Family' has 2 major flaws from the start which make it difficult to buy into the show as a whole.
Firstly, there is the Character of Nina Meyer which is poorly cast (too young for the role), I simply don't believe the actor in the role. Furthermore, her opening scene, where she berates the family, is nonsense! Secondly, believing that the character of Claire Warren went on to build a successful all teeth & smiles career in politics after the disappearance of her child is a step too far. Once again, it's just too much to buy into.
You need to believe these people from the start & I for one don't.
The cast is excellent, but story is always king & if that has flaws the whole thing comes down.
Firstly, there is the Character of Nina Meyer which is poorly cast (too young for the role), I simply don't believe the actor in the role. Furthermore, her opening scene, where she berates the family, is nonsense! Secondly, believing that the character of Claire Warren went on to build a successful all teeth & smiles career in politics after the disappearance of her child is a step too far. Once again, it's just too much to buy into.
You need to believe these people from the start & I for one don't.
The cast is excellent, but story is always king & if that has flaws the whole thing comes down.
LOVEEEE IT CANT BELIEVE CANCELLED
caitlyn_leonard6 April 2019
This recently was on tv, why they advertised it now in 2019 when it was cancelled in 2016 is beyond me!!
Can't believe it
Watch it all the way to the end of season 1 to only find out it was cancelled!!!
THE ENDING???? OMG WHY DO THIS
Can't deal, can't believe it
LOVE this show!
susanlarose25 May 2016
I absolutely LOVE this show. Keeps me on the edge of my seat and all these twists and turns keep me guessing at what's next. Can't even wait for series 2! I was shocked to see some unfavorable reviews, as I see nothing but good characters/acting.Each character plays such an integral part of the show...and they do it well. Haven't seen a show so interesting since Dexter. Just when I think I have things figured out, something else happens to throw me a curve ball. It cannot just end at series 1, episode 12 as that would certainly leave lots up in the air. Series 2 cannot come soon enough. No Rotten Tomatoes on my end..nothing but praise.
Intriguing storyline with an excellent cast so why so many disbelievers?
Ed-Shullivan5 March 2016
The Family is a 13 episode series that spans a 10 year period to when a young simple minded boy named Adam Warren played by Liam James goes missing while supposedly under the watchful eye of his older sister Willa, played by Allison Pill and big brother Danny, played by Zach Gilford. Ten years have passed and then suddenly Adam re-appears coming out of the woods after escaping from his captor.
The second storyline evolves around the wrongly convicted sex offender Hank, played by rat pack star Andrew McCarthy. With the pilot episode now out of the way we the audience could sit back and criticize what some critics believe to be flaws in the storyline. But why the hate so early? I found the pilot to be very well scripted, strongly cast and OH so intriguing. So many character developments in the first 60 minute episode and I have yet to comment on the inter-relationship between the captive Adam Warren's parents dad John, played by Rupert Graves and mom Claire played by 3 time Oscar nominee Joan Allen. (As a side note, I loved Joan Allen's performance in the 2003 film Off The Map). Now spin forward 10 years to the present time and mom Claire is now the mayor of the city they live in and her ambition is headed towards sitting in the Governor's office. Her husband John is a successful author having released a book How to Survive the Loss of a Loved One. The young officer first assigned to the case Nina Meyer, played by Margot Bingham was instrumental in gaining the conviction of their neighbour Hank played by Andrew McCarthy. Officer Meyer was subsequently promoted to detective and young victim Adam's neighbour poor Hank spent the next 10 years in prison wrongfully convicted of a crime he did not commit.
There are many more unbelievable (but true) stories than the television series The Family that are much more flawed but are in fact true cases that are well documented. Two true criminal acts that come to mind are the Menendez brothers Lyle and Erik who in 1989 killed their own parents and in 1996, were found responsible for their parents brutal murders in of all places, Beverly Hills California. The most infamous trial on TV was the O. J. Simpson trial and his subsequent exoneration for the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. If you believe these stories to be true, which based on the court transcripts they are true, then considering the fate of the current television series The Family, just keep an open mind and you will find the series to be as interesting if not more so since we don't know the outcome of the series yet.
In actual life there are far too many unbelievable stories that have been made into movies that we would love to be able to state that just did not happen, when in fact in real life they did occur. Mrs. Shullivan and I have watched intently the pilot for The Family and cannot wait for the unravelling of the next 12 episodes. I give this series a perfect 10 out of 10 score based on a combination of the great actors performances, and an excellent storyline that will keep the audience intrigued with the twists and turns until the story is eventually unfolded. This is a must watch series that is sure to keep an open minded audience as Mrs. Shullivan and I are wanting more of the same. This is an excellent television series that is sure to win a few Emmys.
A perfect 10 score!
The second storyline evolves around the wrongly convicted sex offender Hank, played by rat pack star Andrew McCarthy. With the pilot episode now out of the way we the audience could sit back and criticize what some critics believe to be flaws in the storyline. But why the hate so early? I found the pilot to be very well scripted, strongly cast and OH so intriguing. So many character developments in the first 60 minute episode and I have yet to comment on the inter-relationship between the captive Adam Warren's parents dad John, played by Rupert Graves and mom Claire played by 3 time Oscar nominee Joan Allen. (As a side note, I loved Joan Allen's performance in the 2003 film Off The Map). Now spin forward 10 years to the present time and mom Claire is now the mayor of the city they live in and her ambition is headed towards sitting in the Governor's office. Her husband John is a successful author having released a book How to Survive the Loss of a Loved One. The young officer first assigned to the case Nina Meyer, played by Margot Bingham was instrumental in gaining the conviction of their neighbour Hank played by Andrew McCarthy. Officer Meyer was subsequently promoted to detective and young victim Adam's neighbour poor Hank spent the next 10 years in prison wrongfully convicted of a crime he did not commit.
There are many more unbelievable (but true) stories than the television series The Family that are much more flawed but are in fact true cases that are well documented. Two true criminal acts that come to mind are the Menendez brothers Lyle and Erik who in 1989 killed their own parents and in 1996, were found responsible for their parents brutal murders in of all places, Beverly Hills California. The most infamous trial on TV was the O. J. Simpson trial and his subsequent exoneration for the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. If you believe these stories to be true, which based on the court transcripts they are true, then considering the fate of the current television series The Family, just keep an open mind and you will find the series to be as interesting if not more so since we don't know the outcome of the series yet.
In actual life there are far too many unbelievable stories that have been made into movies that we would love to be able to state that just did not happen, when in fact in real life they did occur. Mrs. Shullivan and I have watched intently the pilot for The Family and cannot wait for the unravelling of the next 12 episodes. I give this series a perfect 10 out of 10 score based on a combination of the great actors performances, and an excellent storyline that will keep the audience intrigued with the twists and turns until the story is eventually unfolded. This is a must watch series that is sure to keep an open minded audience as Mrs. Shullivan and I are wanting more of the same. This is an excellent television series that is sure to win a few Emmys.
A perfect 10 score!
CANCELLED ?????
it-layton5 February 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I can't believe our tv station bothered to show this when there was only one season made!
When I realised it was a 2016 (now Feb 2019), I looked up how many seasons were made and to my suprise only t h e one season!
I binged watched the whole first season and was happy with the story lines and acting.
Last episode obviously a cliffhanger with finding the real Adam still alive!
Where was he?
Why is he with his kidnapper's wife?
Thanks for nothing!
Awesome show!!!!
chrischrz18 May 2016
This was definitely my favorite show on the ABC network ever. The story about a son returning home to his family 10 years after his kidnapping has great twists and turns in through out this story that gets you hooked in more and more after every episode. I really hope that it isn't can-celled and comes back for a season 2 so we can see what happened with all of the cliff hangers they left us with at the end of the season 1 finale. The show got better and better throughout the entire season and it would be a tragedy and sad to cancel one of the few good (as well as new) shows on television because of the bad time slot ABC chose to air and place it in. I Give The Family 5 stars or a 10 out of 10 rating.
Characters are not believable in their roles.
carol_cnb21 March 2016
The writers of this show have seriously neglected one of the cardinal rules of writing a fiction story.
EVERY single character has to have at least one redeeming quality. NOT ONE character here has even a single redeeming character. There is NOTHING here to like. EVERY character can only be disliked or even hated.
I had to quit watching because of this.
As with a prior review, I agree. The actors are either too old or too young to be believable in their roles. The parents don't age, except for the father's graying hair. NOT BELIEVABLE.
EVERY single character has to have at least one redeeming quality. NOT ONE character here has even a single redeeming character. There is NOTHING here to like. EVERY character can only be disliked or even hated.
I had to quit watching because of this.
As with a prior review, I agree. The actors are either too old or too young to be believable in their roles. The parents don't age, except for the father's graying hair. NOT BELIEVABLE.
I think the payoff will come in season 2
crissylauffer10 May 2016
I really like this show. I can see what some people are saying though, that the episodes tend to leave you frustrated and thinking that the show is just going to leave these major holes in the plot, but if you stick around for another episode they finally give you a bombshell or another juicy bit if info.
I really believe that if they get a second season they will be able to redeem themselves. It's SO much better than most of the other new crap that is out right now. Plus, one of the characters is played by the daughter of the actor who plays Cyrus in Scandal. AND Andrew McCarthy is a main character too.
I think it would also have a much larger audience if it didn't have to compete with Game of Thrones which airs at the same time.
I really believe that if they get a second season they will be able to redeem themselves. It's SO much better than most of the other new crap that is out right now. Plus, one of the characters is played by the daughter of the actor who plays Cyrus in Scandal. AND Andrew McCarthy is a main character too.
I think it would also have a much larger audience if it didn't have to compete with Game of Thrones which airs at the same time.
Love the show!!
mrskv784 April 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Came upon this show by accident and am now addicted. I wait each week wondering what will happen this week. Great characters and they all suit their roles very well. I read reviews other people have written and some very negatively...I was quite surprised given the amount of garbage that is on TV these days that people would complain about this show that makes you think...but then again those are probably the same types who vote for Trump hey? I don't think the show will go further than one season though as the storyline seems to be finishing up...once they know that Adam is not Ben then the whole story is kind of done. Perhaps they should of just called it a mini-series....unless the real Adam is still alive then it will open a whole new season of investigation. Anyways this is a good show with a great storyline and as a parent I can imagine myself in their shoes.
Gripping Stuff Indeed!
soccercamp-112 July 2016
Found this gem of a series after hunting through cable for something to occupy myself with while the wait for season 7 of TWD goes on!
Firstly, excellent acting by all concerned in this, Joan Allen & Rupert Graves are always reliable actors and surprisingly Andrew McCarthy, playing a role far removed from his comfort zone, excels himself as the creepy (but "can't help but feel sorry for") loner Hank Asher. The thrilling writing keeps you on the edge of your seat second guessing and the plot keeps twisting, turning and revealing traits, faults, secrets or skeletons in the closet that ALL the main cast try their best to hide, leaving you sometimes quite unsure just who the hell you're rooting for to like and identify with if possible! Each episode generally builds to a big reveal or a cliffhanger leaving you wanting more immediately which is always the sign of a well written show in my opinion.
If you're looking for a well acted, damn good mystery/thriller/drama check this out and stick with it as you WON'T be disappointed as the story builds & progresses right up until it's final twist in the last episode which I simply did not see coming!!
I've just read that it won't be renewed for a second season which I can't believe given some of the dross that graces our small screens including shows that are so wildly overrated and badly acted these days...bring it back ABC!!!
Firstly, excellent acting by all concerned in this, Joan Allen & Rupert Graves are always reliable actors and surprisingly Andrew McCarthy, playing a role far removed from his comfort zone, excels himself as the creepy (but "can't help but feel sorry for") loner Hank Asher. The thrilling writing keeps you on the edge of your seat second guessing and the plot keeps twisting, turning and revealing traits, faults, secrets or skeletons in the closet that ALL the main cast try their best to hide, leaving you sometimes quite unsure just who the hell you're rooting for to like and identify with if possible! Each episode generally builds to a big reveal or a cliffhanger leaving you wanting more immediately which is always the sign of a well written show in my opinion.
If you're looking for a well acted, damn good mystery/thriller/drama check this out and stick with it as you WON'T be disappointed as the story builds & progresses right up until it's final twist in the last episode which I simply did not see coming!!
I've just read that it won't be renewed for a second season which I can't believe given some of the dross that graces our small screens including shows that are so wildly overrated and badly acted these days...bring it back ABC!!!
The Family
Katy_Scary28 April 2016
Warning: Spoilers
This is one of the couple of shows I watch on ABC. Generally I am not a fan of this network but this show offers good drama, suspense and acting. I was pleasantly surprised to see one of my favorite characters from Pretty in Pink back in action. Good come back Andrew! ABC you suck for making me watch these dumb ass commercials when viewing these Episodes on Demand. Thankfully I will be able to fast forward thru these asinine ads when I record the show via DVR. Acne, Friggin Home Loans and Cetaphil is killing me. I just mute the sound when they come on. I kinda wish this show was on one of the cable stations like HBO or Showtime since they generally have better writers but overall I really like this show.
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