Joan of Arcadia - The First Season (2003)

Best Television show in years

This show is written well, is very thought-provoking and allows the viewer to come to their own conclusions.

The cast is outstanding. October 7, 2008

An Above Average, Quirky Family Drama

"Joan of Arcadia" is a good show. That seems like such a general statement, but I think its the best way to describe the show. Certain episodes go past good and get to 'great' status, and some don't even scratch good. But overall, it's a good, above-average family show. The characters are flawed but likable, and one can't help but connect with them on some levels, even times, written badly. What I'm talking about is how Luke sees everything in terms of science and Grace sees everything in terms of how "anti-" she can be. At times, it seems as if the writers let one swooping trait define these characters. Other times, the characters burst with eccentricities and life. It's an odd show, how it goes from quality to "meh" a lot, but there is definitely more good than mediocre here.

Other than the characters, which I really like, there is a lot to love in this show. The little details are the best, such as how Adam always calls Joan "Jane," and how they don't shy away from looking at all sides of Kevin's condition. He is confined to a wheelchair, and that is explored in so many different ways, from outright strife to triumphing over farts (you'll see what I mean). Other than the little details this show is filled with, I also love the way the situation of God is handled. The main character, Joan, talks to God and acts on his "advice," so this is obviously a spiritual show, but I wouldn't call it religious. It tackles religion from the point of view of Joan, keeping it respectful and spiritual without being pushy or supporting any specific denomination.

This is a show I definitely recommend investing in. It's more of a family show than a "watch on your own" kind of thing, because the subject matter is family friendly and can lead to some really nice conversations. The quality of the episodes does vary, and the beginning-middle of the season is a lot better than the middle-end. I noticed that it got very overly sentimental in the third quarter of the season, with a string of episodes that climax with two of the character in tearful hugs. It did bounce back, however, with an arty and trying finale, written fantastically by creator Barbara Hall. I've already bought the next season and will be watching it as soon as possible.

7/10 October 6, 2008

Joan of Arcadia

Interesting premise for the show.

Acting is good, ideas terrific.

can't wait to get season 2 September 1, 2008

very enjoyable

I bought both season one and two. I never got to see many of the episodes when it was on tv and in watching a repeat now on tv, I missed them. I bought both seasons. I enjoy the series because it involves a number of emotions: its funny, sad, silly. But most of all I enjoy the characters (actors) and the fact that the family communicates well with each other. We need to see more of that and more shows like that. July 5, 2008

Awesome, awesome show

I started watching this show midway through it's first season at the insistence of a friend. I'm glad I finally "caved" and watched an episode. The show handles some intriguing material in a well-thought-out manner. It might have a religious premise, but it's a show that's far from preachy. June 28, 2008

More reviews at Amazon.com ...