86 reviews
I enjoyed watching "Mike and Molly" very much. Billy Gardell and Melissa McCarthy lead a superb cast while delving into a rather touchy subject. Let me say uncandidly my wife and I both deal with weight problems, and for the first time I felt the issues were centered without being insulting. The jokes are "laugh with me" style rather then "laugh at me". Needless to say, dealing with these issues can make a person self conscious, and we see that portrayed in Mike as he is smitten with Molly (and I can certainly see why) but hesitates to make the move to ask her out.
Katy Mixon and the always delightful Swoosie Kurtz make a fantastic addition as Molly's family, and the references to her late father where we learn the genetic connection to her weight issues. The ultra thin pair eating a huge piece of cake in front of an exercising Molly is a great demonstration of how fighting weight isn't always the same issue for 2 different people.
As a matter of fact, it is refreshing to see Mike and Molly both trying to take their weight seriously with the participation in Overeaters Annoymous...and Mike announces his loss of 3 pounds, putting perfect perception into how the battle for weight loss is just that, and without a sense of being preachy for those that may be in the same battles.
I also was pleased with an entertaining performance by Reno Wilson as Mike's partner on the police force. He joked with his friend about his weight, but you could tell it was done with love...not shying away from some of his own relationship issues that I am sure we will soon see expounded. And even with the friendship in the jokes, he also proves to be a real friend in general to Mike.
I hope "Mike and Molly" lasts and continues to follow the lead of the pilot and keep things in the proper perspective. Don't shy from the weigthty problems of protagonists without becoming a holier then though preachy "you better deal with your weight" attitude. As a fan of Chuck Lorre's previous efforts, I am sure we are in for another treat.
Katy Mixon and the always delightful Swoosie Kurtz make a fantastic addition as Molly's family, and the references to her late father where we learn the genetic connection to her weight issues. The ultra thin pair eating a huge piece of cake in front of an exercising Molly is a great demonstration of how fighting weight isn't always the same issue for 2 different people.
As a matter of fact, it is refreshing to see Mike and Molly both trying to take their weight seriously with the participation in Overeaters Annoymous...and Mike announces his loss of 3 pounds, putting perfect perception into how the battle for weight loss is just that, and without a sense of being preachy for those that may be in the same battles.
I also was pleased with an entertaining performance by Reno Wilson as Mike's partner on the police force. He joked with his friend about his weight, but you could tell it was done with love...not shying away from some of his own relationship issues that I am sure we will soon see expounded. And even with the friendship in the jokes, he also proves to be a real friend in general to Mike.
I hope "Mike and Molly" lasts and continues to follow the lead of the pilot and keep things in the proper perspective. Don't shy from the weigthty problems of protagonists without becoming a holier then though preachy "you better deal with your weight" attitude. As a fan of Chuck Lorre's previous efforts, I am sure we are in for another treat.
Come on people, this show is super funny. It is actually very plausible that this could be many people's lives. I don't think there's anybody out there who cannot relate to Mike & Molly in someway or another. It may be a little exaggerated but overall it represents a normal chaotic life with embarrassment, insecurities, problems and lots of love.
Every time I watch it I can't help but laugh out loud. It makes my life look almost perfect and always puts a smile on my face. If you don't take it too seriously then you will enjoy it. And yes there are moments when you may be a little bit offended but it's meant to entertain not insult so lighten up.
Every time I watch it I can't help but laugh out loud. It makes my life look almost perfect and always puts a smile on my face. If you don't take it too seriously then you will enjoy it. And yes there are moments when you may be a little bit offended but it's meant to entertain not insult so lighten up.
- Shopaholic35
- Mar 14, 2015
- Permalink
The first few seasons of this show was so funny that I almost hurt from laughing so much. In the last seasons, it changed direction a little too much for me and I kinda feel that it lost its groove. Howver, the writing is witty and quick and sharp and very enjoyable. It's not predictable either, which happens with so many sitcoms.
Being a huge fan of Melissa McCarthy, I thought I would check this show out even though I hadn't really seen any previews for it. (I don't watch a lot on CBS) Seriously...it was hilarious. Especially for a Pilot episode when there is usually more back story and introductions than jokes and humor. I laughed out loud many times and found Billy Gardell, who I'm only familiar with from his work on "My Name Is Earl", to be charming and funny. Swoosie Kurtz and Katy Mixon were also fun characters. There were definitely a lot of "fat jokes" throughout the show, but they were all light hearted and funny. It's lovely to see a show where the main characters are overweight, and while not hating themselves for it, are trying to get healthy. I hope this show continues to bring the humor and showcase these two great lead actors!
- jensmith1115
- Sep 20, 2010
- Permalink
- timhughes10
- Jul 21, 2014
- Permalink
One of the few sitcoms out there where you are guaranteed to laugh for the majority of every episode! The writing and the acting (by all) makes this a non-stop laughing affair. Very few sitcoms offer such non stop humor. All actors were cast perfectly - another rarity. A very enjoyable show that deserves a 9/10 from me!
- Top_Dawg_Critic
- Apr 13, 2018
- Permalink
This is an enjoyable series, but the initial blurb made me think overeating would be a major plot point, but besides being the reason why Mike and Molly met and being a topic in a couple of earlier episodes, it doesn't feature much any more.
The later episodes mostly revolve around Molly's hot-and-cold relationship with her conservative and protective mother-in-law, and Mike's exasperating experiences with Molly's liberal family.
I also love the relationships between Mike and his partner Carl, and their relationship with their seemingly-personal waiter Samuel.
But a lot of the topics seem recycled from other shows - it's like watching remakes of other shows in certain episodes. However, it is still an enjoyable show - I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I do. Give it a chance - it's not the best, but it's still a good choice for an average day.
The later episodes mostly revolve around Molly's hot-and-cold relationship with her conservative and protective mother-in-law, and Mike's exasperating experiences with Molly's liberal family.
I also love the relationships between Mike and his partner Carl, and their relationship with their seemingly-personal waiter Samuel.
But a lot of the topics seem recycled from other shows - it's like watching remakes of other shows in certain episodes. However, it is still an enjoyable show - I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I do. Give it a chance - it's not the best, but it's still a good choice for an average day.
- kathy12366
- Dec 1, 2013
- Permalink
Watch reruns at night before bed to help me laugh so I can get to sleep and survive the STRESSFUL NIGHTMARE that is our lives in 2020. Hilarious show, with good chemistry among the actors, and you gotta love little Jim the Dog (such a serious, worried face that pup has) This show is not really meant for kids, as it touches on a lot of jokes about sex, drugs, and love and hate relationships. I noticed a few reviewers bashing this show because of this, but no one wants every TV show to be rated G for God sake. :o Top 3 Favorite episodes:
1. Sex and Death S-4 Ep- 3
2. Vince Takes a Bath S-3 Ep-2
3. Poker in the Front, Looker in the Back S-4 Ep-5
- midnitepantera
- Nov 24, 2020
- Permalink
- SanteeFats
- Feb 22, 2014
- Permalink
What started out as a nice RomCom jumped the shark. Not sure who decided to do the "NEW Mike & Molly" but the new stinks. It used to be an enjoyable show about a couple who just happen to be overweight and their quirky friends and relatives. Now it's about a angry fat woman who just keeps doing more outrageous things in her desire for attention. Hey, writers did you notice how NONE of Melissa's movies have been anywhere near blockbusters? Might be a clue.
In the past, there were some great, heart-touching episodes with the others being fair-to-middling but still OK. The key to all of the great episodes were the warmth and genuine affection shown by the characters. The epitome of this was the episode "The Princess and the Troll", some serious issues were dealt with a soft but still humorous touch. The key was that we were NOT laughing AT the character or actor nor even WITH the character. But, rather, the weirdness that accompanies life which makes us involuntarily laugh even when life is not funny. The new show is exactly the opposite. We are expected to laugh at a outrageous fat woman precisely because she is an outrageous fat woman. Now, the show is all about Melissa McCarthy with WAY too many instances of her trying to channel Charlie Chaplin. This isn't even about Molly, but about Melissa. But she's definitely no Charlie and completely misses his sublime ability to inject a genuine story into his antics.
In the past, there were some great, heart-touching episodes with the others being fair-to-middling but still OK. The key to all of the great episodes were the warmth and genuine affection shown by the characters. The epitome of this was the episode "The Princess and the Troll", some serious issues were dealt with a soft but still humorous touch. The key was that we were NOT laughing AT the character or actor nor even WITH the character. But, rather, the weirdness that accompanies life which makes us involuntarily laugh even when life is not funny. The new show is exactly the opposite. We are expected to laugh at a outrageous fat woman precisely because she is an outrageous fat woman. Now, the show is all about Melissa McCarthy with WAY too many instances of her trying to channel Charlie Chaplin. This isn't even about Molly, but about Melissa. But she's definitely no Charlie and completely misses his sublime ability to inject a genuine story into his antics.
- abavard_22
- Nov 17, 2013
- Permalink
Officially my favorite sitcom. I adore Friends and Will and Grace, but this series holds a special place in my heart. Funny, raunchy, heartfelt; and you love every character. But the best characters are the stars Mike and Molly. Great chemistry and a hilarious duo. I always found myself laughing out loud, especially after season 4. It's a tragic crime they ended at only 6 seasons! For that I have 9 stars instead of 10. Bring back this wonderful show, and THEN I'll give you my 10th star!
I started with the pilot episode, and I really like the promise of that episode. Then came episode 2 and shortly after all the others where the screen writing seems to have gone from lovingly and witty - to fat jokes and the normal relationship hysteria that surrounds the airing shows. I hate it when you first describe two people as mature and wise - just to transform them into stupid people who can't read the others signals at all. The thing that the couple is fat were adoring at first, now it just feels like an excuse to fire up under the puns and squeeze a few laughs out of the viewers.
I don't find it funny anymore, and I've quit watching.
I don't find it funny anymore, and I've quit watching.
- nadialindgren
- Mar 5, 2011
- Permalink
a try to give a different form of comedy series. more realistic. more familiar in a serious manner. and a decent result. because the humor has a precise target and the series has the good intention to give a realistic perspective for a not so small community. and, surprising, it does a nice job. because it is not only a series about physical appearances, love, family, friends, job and...temptations but all in the right package. and this does it...special. and, maybe, useful.
- Kirpianuscus
- Dec 9, 2017
- Permalink
As not only a fan of these kind of shows and I am a fan of chuck Lori I have to say that this t v series is Very funny and realistic and can sometimes get very serious and I loved every single 2nd of it and I thought That it is 1 Of the funniest Shows that chuck lori has ever Written And I also think that anyone who is a fan of his. We'll like this show and I highly recommend it I hope maybe someday This show will get rebooted Or a film Will happen maybe never say never Also the t v series Is a fresh of fresh air and it makes you smile Especially the 2 part series Finale is Very touching and happy!!!!
- yolandacspeedebuyers
- May 9, 2020
- Permalink
- warriorpoet-12076
- Dec 20, 2022
- Permalink
I watched episodes 3 & 4. I really tried to like it because I like some of the people in it, but it comes across as a re-wash of the same old sitcoms of days past. The kind of humor that practically says, "Here's a joke...Laugh." instead of being clever and surprising. In fact I really think the jokes themselves are basically re-hashed from other sitcoms....Or at least the set up to them is. I guess there's an audience for this same old sitcom format, but it's not for me.
In a way this basically is an on going problem with most sitcoms as well as most series on what used to be considered the three major networks. There's a serious lack of original programming that's actually original. So many of the shows I've checked out on the big 3 have all come across as some re-wash of some canceled series.The cable networks are grabbing the viewers with much more entertaining programming because they're going with new ideas....Are the programmers at the big three really that blind? Or just ignorant?
In a way this basically is an on going problem with most sitcoms as well as most series on what used to be considered the three major networks. There's a serious lack of original programming that's actually original. So many of the shows I've checked out on the big 3 have all come across as some re-wash of some canceled series.The cable networks are grabbing the viewers with much more entertaining programming because they're going with new ideas....Are the programmers at the big three really that blind? Or just ignorant?
As a long time PA announcer for hockey, soccer and girls lacrosse, when someone scores three goals, I usually say "And (name) gets the Hat Trick!" That's true with Chuck Lorre, who has another hit show in Mike & Molly, which follows his biggest hit Two and a Half Men. With another hit The Big Bang Theory, he joins Paul Henning and Susan Harris as the only producers to have three sitcoms in prime time.
Now to Mike & Molly, I saw the first episode and I think the show is going to be a hit, thanks to the chemistry between Billy Gardell as Mike and Melissa McCarthy as Molly. They meet at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting and after a number of obstacles overcome, he finally asks Molly out. Also contributing to the hilarity are Katy Mixon as Molly's sister and Swoosie Kurtz as her mom.
What makes the show stand out from other shows with overweight characters is that there doesn't seem to be a lot of fat jokes, it's more of a character driven show than weight driven.
One thing you might notice is that there are a couple of references to the Chicago Bears. Molly teaches at Walter Payton Elementary School (named for the Hall of Fame running back) and the cook at Mike's favorite restaurant wears a Brian Urlacher jersey. It looks like the producers are Bears fans.
Could it be they're falling in love? if you saw the first episode, watch it each week and you'll find out the answer.
Now to Mike & Molly, I saw the first episode and I think the show is going to be a hit, thanks to the chemistry between Billy Gardell as Mike and Melissa McCarthy as Molly. They meet at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting and after a number of obstacles overcome, he finally asks Molly out. Also contributing to the hilarity are Katy Mixon as Molly's sister and Swoosie Kurtz as her mom.
What makes the show stand out from other shows with overweight characters is that there doesn't seem to be a lot of fat jokes, it's more of a character driven show than weight driven.
One thing you might notice is that there are a couple of references to the Chicago Bears. Molly teaches at Walter Payton Elementary School (named for the Hall of Fame running back) and the cook at Mike's favorite restaurant wears a Brian Urlacher jersey. It looks like the producers are Bears fans.
Could it be they're falling in love? if you saw the first episode, watch it each week and you'll find out the answer.
Show was funny for a few years then just tanked.Molly or Melissa what ever her name is think she could act on her own and do movies and screwed over the whole cast.But all her movies sucked and tanked.Bet she is wishing show was still on so she could collect a paycheck.I think she is just garbage now.
- fastporsche
- May 19, 2019
- Permalink
- PartialMovieViewer
- Apr 27, 2014
- Permalink
We never really watched these much during original showings. But now we find the characters hysterically funny most times. Especially Carlton's Nana. She is delightful. The empty headed sister is terrific. Priceless stories come out of her mouth.
- vintagegeek
- Jul 26, 2021
- Permalink
Weight jokes are excessive and in poor taste many times in the first two episodes. I love to poke fun at the gravity challenged when it is not hurtful. The stereotypical black guy with a zinger every other line is tiresome as well. Too bad because the concept is good. The dumb blond sister bit is overdone as is the mother's dysfunction. All in all the show is hard to watch because the actors have been given little chance to succeed due to poor writing. There should be more opportunities to identify with the weight struggle since it is something many can appreciate. It's almost as if the character's struggle with their weight is nothing more than fodder for the poor one liners.
- michaelzmcclellan
- Sep 27, 2010
- Permalink
This show came on telly the other night and since my hands were busy and I was insomnic at the moment, I watched a single episode and that was enough to make me never want to watch this show again.
Mike is your standard issue comedy cop, complete with the obligatory funny black partner while Molly is your standard issue housewife-type girlfriend. Their relationship is fraught with the generic comedy-show problems which in reality would be easily fixed with 20 seconds open and honest communication but in the world of comedy the obvious path is to talk to everyone but the partner and then decide to do something manipulative and/or passive-aggressive while the canned laughter plays in the background.
The laughs focused on humiliation, awkwardness, and passive aggression for the most part, but many of the jokes in the episode I had the misfortune of watching were homophobic jokes.
The show does get 2 points for the quality of acting from the cast which made the characters actually rather alive even if they were still fundamentally horrible people in general, and for having a cast that isn't fully stocked with pretty people that fit the "pretty actor/actress" mold. But that is all this show brings to the table.
Mike is your standard issue comedy cop, complete with the obligatory funny black partner while Molly is your standard issue housewife-type girlfriend. Their relationship is fraught with the generic comedy-show problems which in reality would be easily fixed with 20 seconds open and honest communication but in the world of comedy the obvious path is to talk to everyone but the partner and then decide to do something manipulative and/or passive-aggressive while the canned laughter plays in the background.
The laughs focused on humiliation, awkwardness, and passive aggression for the most part, but many of the jokes in the episode I had the misfortune of watching were homophobic jokes.
The show does get 2 points for the quality of acting from the cast which made the characters actually rather alive even if they were still fundamentally horrible people in general, and for having a cast that isn't fully stocked with pretty people that fit the "pretty actor/actress" mold. But that is all this show brings to the table.