Ignore the Golden Globes. For some odd reason Comedies and Musicals are lumped together (a musical is the antithesis of a comedy in my opinion) Modern Family should of won the award for best comedy, instead of Glee stealing it for best musical.

Not since Arrested Development have I seen such a perfect and balanced cast so suited for their roles. There isn’t a moment on screen where I think to myself “oh, this character again, this won’t be funny”.

Modern Family takes some cues from “The Office” in that it is shot like a mockumentary. A supposed camera crew are filming this extended family to document the lives of the modern, American suburban family. It works, and works well. This format allows for personal interviews of the family members that proved excellent in “The Office”. It also allows for glances directly into the lens of the camera by the cast that adds a sense of realism to it.

But, the format is just what they got right in the foundation. This show is also built on some excellent writing, great acting and characters that are believable.

There is the grumpy, old Grandfather, played by “Married with Children”’s Ed O’Neill, with his trophy wife (although they seem to be doing a lot to dispel these common stereotypes). The father who doesn’t want to seem out of date with his kids generation. The mother who doesn’t want to grow old and then the usual children archetypes, the intelligent one, the social one and the stupid one. There is also a gay couple which adds the father issues of the son and the dramatic flamboyance from the queen.

Overall, it is very well rounded. Once of the few new shows this season that I actually look forward to each week. Check it out. You’ll be doing yourself a disservice by just looking for funny youtube clips. But, regardless, here’s one for a taste of what to expect.