Fox debuts its newest, and practically only, live-action half-hour comedy, “”Sons of Tucson”” on Sunday. The premiere keeps a swift and steady pace, detailing the origins of what will soon become a very untraditional, yet functional, family.
After their banker father is sentenced to 25 years in prison, the Gunderson boys — Robby, Gary and Brandon — head west to one of their father’s investment homes in Tucson to escape the dreaded foster care system. When the boys get to Tucson, they realize they still need an adult to sign them up for school and deal with parental issues.
Enter Ron Snuffkin (Tyler Labine). He’s a local con artist living out of his car. Desperate for cash, he accepts the boys’ business deal and signs them up for school, acting as their father. But Ron’s relationship with the boys takes a hairy turn when he tries to use them to con his own grandmother. Eventually, they all realize they’re going to need each other on a long-term basis, and their new family is formed.
“”Sons of Tucson”” is a refreshing addition to the Fox lineup. If there is one thing the network is lacking, it’s live-action comedy. The premiere works well due to its fast-paced storyline and intriguing characters. Gary, the middle brother, is the brains of the operation. Little brother Robby holds untamed aggression in his tiny fists, and big brother Brandon is, well, the big brother. The best casting, however, goes to Labine (“”Reaper,”” “”Invasion””). Labine is like Jack Black without the erratic body gestures. His comedic timing is on spot, and he fits perfectly into the role of a relaxed wrongdoer.
Props are due to the show’s art director, who has made a show about Tucson without the presence of a cactus in every scene. Residents of Tucson will appreciate how the city is represented.
As of now, “”Sons of Tucson”” has a perfect lead-in with “”Family Guy”” on Sunday nights. If Fox keeps the show there, it may just have a chance. However, Fox has a reputation of throwing promising comedies under the bus (RIP “”Arrested Development””). Let’s hope they show more respect to “”Sons of Tucson.””
Recommended for those who enjoy: “”Malcolm in the Middle”” or “”My Name is Earl.””
“”Sons of Tucson”” premieres on Fox, March 14, 8:30 p.m. after “”Family Guy.””
