It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia is a dark comedy sitcom series created by Rob McElhenney. The series revolves around a group of friends who run a bar and the hijinks they get up to. The series is famous for its pitch-black sense of humour, it is this that sets it apart from other sitcoms; especially ones like Cheers that are also about people running a bar.
*As of the time of writing I am just finishing the 14th season so the things I say in this review/overview of the series will reflect all of these seasons.
When I first started watching this show I thought it was good and that it had potential, but I didn’t think it was anything special. The first season is by far the worst, it is still very good, but it pales when compared to later seasons. I think the show definitely came into its own in season 2 with the introduction of Frank Reynolds (Danny DeVito), to the group. From there It’s Always Sunny managed to do something few other series have done, it stayed good. Seasons 2-14 have all been very consistent in terms of quality, this isn’t like The Good Place that had some seasons stronger than others, no this show has always stayed consistently good.
The majority of the charm this show has, comes from its characters. Outside of Frank, who I previously mentioned there is Mac (Rob McElhenney), Dee (Kaitlin Olsen), Charlie (Charlie Day), and Dennis (Glenn Howerton). All of these characters are richly explored are a multi-layered, there are entire episodes dedicated to fleshing out details about individual characters, which help us the audience to feel like we know them. Even though they’re supposed to be the worst people imaginable they still somehow come across as likeable. Moreover, the world this show creates is fantastic as well with there being a rich cast of supporting characters who all have their own dynamic with the group and a large amount of backstory.
The humour of the show is not for those with a delicate disposition as it is often times incredibly dark with no taboo subject off the table for the gang to debate and lampoon; often in a very clever way. It never fails to make me smile if not laugh out loud or chuckle.
Overall, I can’t accurate put into words what this show is like it is something that needs to be seen to be understood. Other than a weak first season, which is still a solid 4/5, this show is a masterpiece in dark comedy and is something everyone should at least watch an episode of to see if it is for you, as it really is something special.
Ps. My other minor, minor gripe with the show was that they brought back Dennis after they have effectively written him off, I thought that was a cop out and if they had followed through with it could have sent the show as a whole down an interesting new path.
Pros.
It is hilarious.
The cast are great.
It is rewarding to long time viewers.
The surprisingly good world building.
The great social commentary.
Cons.
None really.
5/5
Reviewed by Luke
Another Millennial Reviewer 