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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 adult-targeted comedy is full of boundary-pushing material that may be offensive to some viewers. The main character's lies are the source of much of the show's humor, as are extreme comic scenarios that involve sadomasochism, rape jokes, feces, and much more. Language is extreme, including "f--k," "s--t," and many racial, sexual, and gender-oriented slurs.
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What's the Story?
Milquetoast office temp and pathological liar Todd Margaret (David Cross) is mistaken for a go-getter sales executive and sent to London to spearhead the campaign for energy drink Thunder Muscle. Along the way, he accumulates charges ranging from terrorism to counterfeiting to murder, thanks to his mix of naivete and blatant lying.
Is It Any Good?
Anything created, written, and starring David Cross can't be all bad, and that is definitely the case with THE INCREASINGLY POOR DECISIONS OF TODD MARGARET. There are genuinely funny moments within each episode. Unfortunately, these moments are surrounded by ridiculous situations and disgusting gags.
David Cross plays a self-involved naif that many will recognize as a close cousin to Tobias Funke, his character on Arrested Development. While Tobias was amusing, Todd is often simply exasperating. Many times, co-star Will Arnett steals the scene in this series. While this isn't David Cross's best work, those who love Cross and can stomach scenes involving fecal matter, smoking pregnant women, and other low-hanging comedic fruit may just have a new favorite series.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about lying. Under what circumstances, if any, is it OK to lie? What are your family's rules about lying? What message about lying do you think this show is expressing?
Why is there such over-the-top swearing in the series? Who uses the swear words? What do you think this says about the characters?
Todd Margaret works in sales. Do you think the series' creators respect the profession? Why or why not? Does the series have an anti-consumerism message?
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 1, 2010
- Cast: David Cross, Spike Jonze, Will Arnett
- Network: IFC
- Genre: Comedy
- TV rating: TV-MA
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Arrested Development
Brilliant, innovative comedy for mature viewers.
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Seinfeld
Yadda, yadda, yadda -- a classic for teens and up.
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30 Rock
SNL alums craft clever media satire.
For kids who love comedy
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