Rules of Engagement (CBS)

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT feature two couples and their single friend dealing with the various stages of dating, commitment, and marriage. While Adam Rhodes and Jennifer Morgan (Oliver Hudson and Bianca Kajlich) begin their lives as a newly engaged couple, Jeff and Audrey Bingham (Patrick Warburton and Megyn Price) muddle through their long-time marriage. Meanwhile, single friend Russell Dunbar (David Spade) works his way through serial dating and a string of one-night stands. The group is later joined by Dunbar’s assistant Timmy (Adhir Kalyhan), a single-but refined young man who attempts to serve as his boss’ moral guide.

This traditional-style sitcom pokes fun at relationships of all kinds, and relies on lots of gender stereotypes for laughs. But some of these lighthearted conversations also highlight some of the issues that surface when in a relationship, including communication, trust, and parenthood.

Granted, it contains some frank talk about sex, and Spade’s sharp humor is occasionally borderline offensive. But the show is also very well written, and contains lots of humorous moments, too. It isn’t for kids, but older teens and adults looking for a good laugh may actually find one here.