Man Up!
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this lighthearted comedy contains some strong language ("bitch," "ass"), some sexual references, and mildly sexist remarks. Drinking is visible. Occasionally adults get into comedic physical fights.
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What's the story?
MAN UP! is a comedy featuring three thirty-something guys trying to figure out how to hold on to their manhood. Will (Mather Zickel) lives a happy, domesticated life with his wife Theresa (Teri Polo) and his two kids, Nathan (Jake Johnson) and Lucy (Charlotte Labadie), but sometimes wonders if he is a 'real man'. His brother-in-law, Kenny (Dan Fogler), is struggling to cope with his ex-wife Brenda (Amanda Detmer) and her seemingly perfect boyfriend Grant (Henry Simmons). Meanwhile, their single and sensitive friend Craig (Christopher Moynihan) finds himself pining over lost loves and other issues while strumming his guitar. Together they realize that being a man in today's complicated world isn't easy, especially when they can't figure out what that really means.
Is it any good?
The series offers some funny moments as the men support each other in their attempt to live up to a confusing idea of how their gender should behave. But the plot lines, which mostly revolve around the guys trying to solve a problem in goofy sort of way, don't feel very original. The conversations between them are often silly and mildly sexist, too.
The characters aren't very introspective about themselves or the world around them, but they are surprisingly easy to relate to. As a result, while the overall show lacks depth, it definitely has a little heart. If you are looking for some lighthearted sitcom entertainment, this one may fit the bill.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the role of men and women are defined in our society. Do you think these definitions are based on fact, or on stereotypes? How does the media contribute to the way gender roles are maintained and/or change over time?
TV details
- Premiere date: October 18, 2011
- Cast: Christopher Moynihan, Dan Fogler, Mather Zickel
- Network: ABC
- Genre: Comedy
- TV rating: TV-14
- Available on: Streaming
For kids who love comedy
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