Anything But Love - Volume 1

It was a rather unlikely sitcom pairing back in 1989 - Jamie Lee Curtis, who seemed to be doing fine with her big screen career and Richard Lewis known by those who followed the stand-up circuit in the 80's as a pathologically angst-ridden comic who only half jokingly would claim that his perfomances were a form of therapy.

And yet, that was the point - although never catching on enough with audiences, in spite of a revolving door of cast changes with the surrounding players, the heart of the series was the affinity that Curtis and Lewis had for each other as Hannah Miller and Marty Gold, and doubtless why the movie actress and tortured comic joined up to do the show in the first place. In interviews over the years, the actors have always reflected kindly on the show, for although the writing wasn't as strong as others, the affection they shared for each other seemed more grounded, rang truer. Where on "Cheers" Sam and Diane's heat burned bright then quickly fizzled, Hannah and Marty's romance shown with light, dimly at first and brighter as it went - the coupling seemed even more compelling after the consumation. For me, Hannah and Marty had the relationship I found more intriguing - intelligent, respectful and comfortable. The show was at least as interesting after they got together, if not more so.

Sure, the courtship was set in a workplace comedy centered around a Chicago magazine, but at its core this was a story of a romance. The writers seemed to soften Lewis' stand-up persona to make him an effective romantic lead, and Curtis' rapport with him validates the writing.

Although the show's writing wasn't as strong as some comedically, it could be very insightful and touching - and certainly funnier than many others of its era. Rumor has it that the production company that sold the show to ABC axed it themselves since they didn't see a great syndication potential out of it, and since it probably last aired on Comedy Central some six years ago after a long abscence the cancellation seems the right choice.

For me, this was one of the great "also-ran" comedies of the 80's, and to see two seasons of it released gives me hope that other more successful B-team sitcoms (Night Court, Mad About You, Drew Carey, etc.) may finally get another look by the studios as well for further DVD releases.

So thanks in advance to Fox Studios for the anticipated February 07 release, and here's hoping the rest follow right behind.

Anything But Love was never a huge hit. It ran from 1989 to 1992. The first season was only six episodes, and the final season was cancelled midway through. Why? Because network execs thought the show was not repeatable. No syndication value. Lifetime broadcast repeats briefly. So why is Anything But Love coming to DVD? Someone at Fox must think it's a fine show. And it is. The combination of a charming actress (Jamie Lee Curtis) and a very funny stand up comic (Richard Lewis) is perfect. Their chemistry drives this vehicle, and they are strongly supported by a wonderful group of actors.

The setup is simple. These too people are attracted to each other but won't admit it because they work together. Love will not bloom until the third season, but the first two are still great.

Lewis and Curtis do not hog the spotlight. They allow the other characters to shine. Ann Magnuson is a standout as the editor of the magazine, and Holly Fulger is very funny as Curtis' needy best friend.

The dvds also include a documentary about the series, and commentary on the pilot with Curtis & Lewis. It's obvious everyone connected with the show loved it. Many episodes were directed by David Trainer, who directed every episode of That 70's Show.

While I only remember drips and drabs about this show, it's one I think of often - even 17 years later. What I do remember is how disappointed I was when it did not return to prime time. I do remember it was touching at times through the laughter. I logged on today to see if it was available on DVD. So happy to learn it will be coming out early next year. Something to look forward to after the holiday hoopla is over! I always wondered why Jamie Lee didn't try another sitcom. It will be great to see these episodes again!

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