Nerd Comedy! Better Off Ted

Better Off Ted (2009) A

Better Off Ted is a office comedy which airs on ABC. When I hear “workplace comedy” I immediately think that it is probably just another show trying to capitalize on the popularity of “The Office,” but this show is certainly a whole different animal. It centers on a company called Veridian Dynamics, a stereotypical evil conglomerate, and stars Jay Harrington as “Ted” a good guy just trying to do his job without compromising his morality.

Now this may sound like a drama, but the oddball cast of characters delivers a wonderful satire of corporate corruption. Ted’s boss Veronica (played by the delightful Portia de Rossi) is a cold and calculating corporate executive who doesn’t share Ted’s weak stomach about morally questionable practices undertaken by the company, and enjoys shooting a gun into her office chair to relieve stress. Phil and Lem ( played by Jonathan Slavin and Malcolm Barrett, respectively) are two bumbling research scientists who work in Ted’s department. The chemistry between these two actors is comedic gold; whether they are trying to find out a cure for a parasitic hair growth formula or work up the courage to complain to their terrifying boss (Veronica) you love these nerds from the very start. The romantic interest for Ted is Linda (Andrea Anders) the new girl at the company. She is the straight man for the comedy on the show, constantly shocked at all the ridiculous things the company is doing. Her character is quirky and fun, as well as being a source for flirtation and sexual tension for Ted. By far the most surprisingly funny character is Ted’s daughter Rose (Isabella Acres). Wise beyond her years, Rose is witty and cute as a button. Ted is a single parent, and his relationship with his daughter is heartwarming and funny. This is Isabella Acres first named role and I certainly hope she keeps it up, this kid has some serious talent for comedy.

Better Off Ted has so far had one of the best freshman seasons of a comedy I have ever seen, but the large geek factor in the humor and dynamics on the show may be a stumbling block for the average viewer. I personally love this show, and I hope you will check it out and love it too! There are a few trailing episodes online (abc.com and hulu.com) but to keep this show on the air check your local listings and set your Tivo to stun.