This is standard, current sitcom formula at its very worst. Certainly, it's not surprising that the WB is the source.
Although I couldn't tolerate "The Nanny" during its original run, I have grown to appreciate its comic timing, and sly dialogue. Fran D is an acquired taste, but her personae can work effectively with good writing, and a first-rate supporting cast.
"Living with Fran" has no such luck. The pilot is humorless. The concept banal. Fran works best with a "smart" co-star, and this fiasco has only her daughter in that category. Unfortunately, the dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship do not allow for the kind of interplay that Fran's typical audience expects. There is no "Niles" or "CC" off which to bounce caustic one-liners.
This mess of a sitcom will die a quick death.
P.S. Good grief - it's in Season Two!
P.S. 2 WB just put on hiatus - bye-bye!
Although I couldn't tolerate "The Nanny" during its original run, I have grown to appreciate its comic timing, and sly dialogue. Fran D is an acquired taste, but her personae can work effectively with good writing, and a first-rate supporting cast.
"Living with Fran" has no such luck. The pilot is humorless. The concept banal. Fran works best with a "smart" co-star, and this fiasco has only her daughter in that category. Unfortunately, the dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship do not allow for the kind of interplay that Fran's typical audience expects. There is no "Niles" or "CC" off which to bounce caustic one-liners.
This mess of a sitcom will die a quick death.
P.S. Good grief - it's in Season Two!
P.S. 2 WB just put on hiatus - bye-bye!