The television sitcom is a great format that is wasted most of the time on formulaic, morality tales based on the family unit. When the format is more imaginatively explored (eg Seinfeld, Arrested Development, The Office), it is much more interesting and perverse.
Better Off Ted is set in the offices of the fictional Veridian Dynamics, a ruthless corporation who will make anything that can lead to a profit. Ted (Jay Harrington) is head of research and development, where he reports to the eccentric and emotionally deficient Veronica (Portia de Rossi), has some sexual tension with one his employees , Linda (Andrea Anders), is adored by the companies two leading scientists, Phil (Jonathan Slavin) and Lem (Malcolm Barrett), and has his actions questioned by his 8yo daughter, Rose (Isabella Acres).
Veridian Dynamics’ quirky inventions (heat resistant mice, explosive pumpkins, cowless meat), office politics (motion sensors that don’t detect black people, Medieval Fight Club), and disturbingly realistic commercials provide the basis for much of the humour (which is rapid fire, one camera, no laugh track). Morality is questioned, but lessons are not taught or learnt in the conventional manner. Better Off Ted makes you think as well as laugh (and often cringe). Corporate America has never been funnier, or better examined.
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