Side Order of Life

The intriguing pilot takes its time, leaving an element of mystery surrounding the show's direction, but if the entree remains equal to this appetizer, the cable net may have a prestige show on its hands.

The production itself is sunny and conducive to a good mood. Coughlan wears well, as does Jason Priestley in the role of the fiancé she puts on hold.

The theme of the show is a metaphor for how McIntyre will start to dive into her life and listen to "wake-up calls from the universe." It's a slender concept, and the series may not stand out enough in this crowded summer season.

There is nothing as original in Side Order of Life as the metaphysical puppet, but there is enough promise to return for a second week - to see whether Jenny is wise enough to learn from the pain.

Fun is notably absent from Side Order, which strains to be both quippy and profound.

The whole ''mystical universe'' business worked for Steve Martin in "L.A. Story," but Coughlan is too perky and lite to seem a believable target for such ''live, love!'' magical messaging.

The series proceeds to follow Jenny’s remarkably bland course of revelation.