TV MINI-SERIES REVIEW
Ted
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 7 episodes (Supersized premiere, followed by six 30-minute episodes)
Executive Producer/Writer/Director/Co-Showrunner: Seth MacFarlane
Executive Producers/Writers/Co-Showrunners: Paul Corrigan and Brad Walsh
Cast: Seth MacFarlane, Max Burkholder, Alanna Ubach, Scott Grimes, Giorgia Whigham 
Where To Watch: arrives January 11, 2024 on Peacock

RAVING REVIEW: Buckle up with the TED prequel series for a hilarious ride that will keep you laughing from start to finish! Each episode is a fresh and welcome addition to Ted’s story, with witty banter and a crisp narrative, contributing to a compelling, utterly binge-worthy series. Blending a nostalgic essence from 1993 with innovative storytelling, it finds the perfect balance between paying homage to its origins and charting a new course.

In this series, Ted takes us back to the days after his infamous rise and fall from fame, deepening our understanding of the beloved bear's backstory. Set against the backdrop of Framingham, Massachusetts, the series dives into the tumultuous and hilarious world of adolescence and the role that family takes in our younger years. Seth MacFarlane returns to voice Ted, the quick-witted and often foul-mouthed bear, while Max Burkholder plays his best friend, John Bennett. The setting is further enriched by John's parents, Matty and Susan (Scott Grimes and Alanna Ubach), and the cousin Blaire (Giorgia Whigham).

The brilliance of this series lies in its fusion of McFarlane’s real-life teenage experiences with the fantastical world of TED. This amalgamation brings an authenticity that resonates with anyone who's weathered the stormy seas of adolescent years. The series doesn't just copy the original film's formula; it reimagines it, injecting fresh life into the narrative while maintaining the essence of the TED.

The heart of this series is the bond between Ted and John. Their friendship, riddled with misadventures and warmth, is the emotional crux of the show. It is a poignant reminder of our youth's formative, sometimes unorthodox, friendships. Their journey through school is layered with humor and sentimentality, ensuring a captivating viewing experience. I also believe the infusion of Whigham’s character, Blaire, adds a counter to the series that was not only welcome but entirely necessary; she often steals the scene!

Although the series nods to the original TED films, it confidently stands as an independent narrative. It's not just a trip down memory lane; it's an expansive exploration into the characters' histories, brought to life through MacFarlane's visionary storytelling. The prequel series is a tribute to the lasting charm of TED, expanding its universe in a way that appeals to both ardent followers and newcomers.

The TED prequel series is a hilarious triumph of comedic storytelling blended with heartfelt narratives. It's a saga of friendship, the rollercoaster of adolescence, and the lasting imprints of our early adventures in life. It’s a refreshing, laughter-laden journey that leaves viewers longing for more. The hope for another season lingers as the series concludes with a sense of fulfillment yet an undeniable yearning for more – a hallmark of exceptional storytelling.

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[photo courtesy of UCP, A DIVISION OF UNIVERSAL STUDIO GROUP, FUZZY DOOR, MRC, PEACOCK]

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