JaySherman

This is one of the first times that I've watched a good TV show go downhill so poorly. Seasons 1 & 2 were tens, and now I can't wait for an episode to finish. I used to be able to suspend disbelief and see Vince as an actor but now I'm just wondering how he got the job ... does he have pictures of Marky Mark? In the beginning, it was a surprise when a real celebrity showed up; now, I cringe every time someone walks into Ari's office or wants to invest in Turtle's tequila. Since the actors haven't changed, I have to believe it's the writing, or maybe, like everything Hollywood, the cast and writers just got bored. Taking that a step further, maybe they've got a pool going to see how long the show can last with everyone mailing it in. Anyway, if there's a season 8, I don't think I'll be along for the ride ... oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah ...

Modern Family combines a strong cast with good writing. Ed O'Neil and Julie Bowen have been doing this for years, and their experience really helps give the rest of the somewhat newbie cast a lift. In Season 2 you can really see the effect as some of the less experienced cast members come into their own. The mockumentary style worked for the Office, and it works for Family, especially the irrepressibly clueless Phil Dunphy. In a sea of mediocrity, Family stands out ... just ask your friends. To be fair, there are a couple of minor issues with the show: the child actors, with the notable exception of Rico Rodriguez, are average (will improve with time), and the intelligence level in the story-lines is also average, but compared to shows like Two and a Half Men, it's a godsend.