Friday Night Lights – Season 1

Archived review – Rather rushed, sorry!

I caught up with this show only in recent weeks and I have to say I'm in love with it. And I still don't know why. Describing it as 'a sentimental family drama about a Texas high school football team' is probably the worst thing I could do, as you'll all be backing away from me cautiously, shaking your heads in disapproval. And that's the thing, there is no hook to this show - no 'out-there' high concept, no stunt casting, not even one original plotline. It's just superbly written and acted and, best of all, it's consistently great with each episode. It's often quite traumatic, particularly the thread that follows star quarterback's accident in the first episode that leads to his paralysis and his grieving girlfriend to cheat on him. Just as captivating is the story of the mild-mannered boy chosen to replace him as quarterback. However, top gold stars go to the coach and his wife (played superbly by Kyle Chandler and Spin City's Connie Britton), whose every conversation is always a pleasure to watch. I couldn't recommend this show any more highly, just watch. You won't be disappointed...