One of the biggest surprises of the new tv shows premiering this fall is the NBC drama "This Is Us." It's real to life approach to storytelling and likable characters made for a great pilot episode that can only mean good things for the first season. Here's a few of the highlights.

1. The truth that hurts

Something that modern TV shows have been lacking is realism. "This Is Us" is grounded and carries with it a powerful lesson: growing up isn't all you hoped it would be. Life can be cruel sometimes. And the main characters, all sharing the same birthday, have to cope with life's problems. It ties the characters together and draws you in with a heartwarming storyline.

2. The cast

NBC brought back "Heroes" star Milo Ventimiglia as Jack, whose wife Rebecca (Mandy Moore) goes into labor with their triplets. Sterling K. Brown, who starred in "Army Wives" plays Randall, a man searching for his biological father. These established actors, along with Chrissy Metz and Justin Hartley, make for lovable characters and engaging storylines.

3. The twist

Obvious spoilers if you haven't watched the pilot yet. The most talked about aspect of this episode is the big reveal at the end. The final scene ties together all of the main storylines, as Jack gets the news that one of his triplets was lost and decides to adopt a third baby at the hospital. His story has been taking place in the past, and Randall, Kate, and Kevin are his three children. It's a great reveal that promises a cohesive story going forward about this family. It also enables the show to end on an uplifting note.