On Feb. 26, 2016, Netflix released the highly anticipated sequel of the massively successful '90s sitcom "Full House." The series – titled "Fuller House" – seems to have picked up exactly where they left off when the series finale aired on May 23, 1995. "Full House" broadcasted eight seasons and 192 episodes full of quirky catchphrases, family-oriented humor, and the always expected hugs at the end of almost every episode.
After watching "Fuller House," I decided to break down my thoughts on where this first season might have gone wrong, and to also complement what they actually did right.
First and foremost, I want to express how much I really do appreciate the efforts that were made to revamp one of the shows that really stood out to me as a child. I must say, I do have a soft spot for the adorable catchphrases, such as Stephanie Tanner’s "How rude!," as well as Uncle Jesse's consistent obsession with Elvis Presley. Every episode that I watched of "Full House," I would walk away from the television feeling like I learned some sort of life lesson.
The revival of "Fuller House" had all of the necessary tools for a great success. However, the pilot episode seemed to jump all over the place. From the moment it started until the end of the episode, parts of it seemed rushed, and it felt as if the writers were forced into playing catch-up for the viewers.
The concept of the show is simple. D.J. Tanner is a recently widowed mother of three who moves into the infamous Tanner House in order to get back onto her feet. The entire Tanner clan (minus Michelle, and adding the notoriously wacky Kimmy Gibbler) all come together in the house as a way of showing their support for D.J. The predictable outcome is revealed, as D.J. struggles to settle in and juggle her job with taking care of her three kids. As the family notices her struggling, Stephanie, Kimmy, and her daughter offer to move in to help. Sound familiar?
As I watched the rest of the season, I noticed how this show had very similar elements to "Full House." One of those being the effect of typical '90s humor that makes the show feel as if it is best left on as background noise. There were multiple dialogues with sexual innuendos, Donald Trump references, and very low-cut dresses. This was an interesting addition to the also painfully cheesy moments that mirror those of "Full House." At some points, I almost had to look away in embarrassment at the moments of pure “Oh god, no” sentiment. It’s clear that the writers and producers really didn’t know exactly whom this show was intended for.
It was announced recently that Netflix has bravely chosen to renew the series for a second season. It should be interesting to see if the writers and producers will decide if they want to make the show for kids or for adults. I think this show has the potential to become a great successor for the hopeful '90s kids who adored the show just as much as I did.
But please, can we get a little more character development and a little less cheesiness? After all, this isn’t the '90s anymore!
