That's Life

You may not find a better executed show on television this fall. [29 Sept 2000, p.C07]

The show is tremendously likable. Credit for the fresh, off-kilter viewpoint goes to Diane Ruggiero, a former New Jersey waitress selected by CBS to create the autobiographical show. She gives her characters sharp dialogue, puts them in identifiable situations and depicts poignancy without going mushy. [1 Oct 2000, p.F1]

The promising "That's Life" rarely seems recycled. [29 Sept 2000, p.1E]

A promising newcomer that recalls the ethnic comedy and spirit of the movie "Moonstruck." [29 Sept 2000]

If the show manages to settle on a consistent tone, much still rides on the slender shoulders of Ms. Kent. The first episode is staged as a long monologue, with the bartender-coed unloading her story on one of her regular customers. Ms. Kent is game but not always steady as she begins to negotiate the tough-but-tender course the show's producers and writers have set for Lydia. [30 Sept 2000, p.B17]

A good cast that includes Ellen Burstyn (Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore) and Paul Sorvino (Law & Order) works hard to overcome a script filled with cliches. [7 Oct 2000, p.5E]

About as charming as a headache and just as dull. [29 Sept 2000, p.113]