CybrTygr
I came across this show because of Edward James Olmos. And although I'm not Latino, I still find the show has many aspects that many people will find hit home. Each character in the show brings something from the different points of view in life. I'll admit I mostly lean toward Olmos' character and what he goes through to what he feels is right for the family. After all, it's not easy being a father (or admittingly a mother either). It was also saddening to see Conrado die doing what he felt was right and trying to make a difference. I think most people who see this can relate to at least one character in this show, and I hope PBS will be able to keep it going.
kotsw85
Look up the word "quality" and the definition is "American Family".The Gonzalez clan happen to be Latino, but they could be any family in America. Edward James Almos and Sonia Braga are truly brilliant as Jess and Berta Gonzalez [sadly, as is with most quality televison, both were passed over for much deserved Emmy nominations].American Family" is lovingly written with heart, humor and intimacy. If you didn't catch it on PBS, try and find it on video....it's well worth the effort!
atrac
I really wanted to write a title for this review that didn't come off as corny or gushing but still described my feelings for this show. I can see now that it is not possible. "American Family" is one of the best shows I have ever had the pleasure of watching on television. Several reviewers here on IMDb have mentioned the word "beautiful" when describing this show. Never has a word been more fitting. The cinematography for this show is stunning. Every scene and shot looks like a masterpiece. The lighting, camera moves, scene composition and colors...I have to keep reminding myself that I'm watching a TV Show and not a Motion Picture masterpiece. The score by Lee Holdridge and Nathan Wang brings tears to my eyes. And most importantly, the acting by the all around amazing cast is honest and sincere. I do not feel like I am watching performances...I feel like I'm watching real life. If only real life could be this beautiful."American Family" has indeed raised the bar for quality entertainment on Television. I highly recommend this show to anyone who is willing to watch it. I could easily chide CBS for passing on this show, but I have to say that it doesn't matter to me who airs it. I'm just glad it's out there for everyone to see. So I do thank PBS for not allowing this show to disappear into nothingness.I have to give special recognition to the way each season's finale ended. The first one was pure creative brilliance and it moved me to tears. I was waiting to see if season two would also end in a creative way, and sure enough it did. Again, tears.My thanks to all of those involved. You really have made a special piece of art with this show, and I sincerely mean that. It is a shame that we only got two seasons, but a miracle we got anything at all.
celluloidmuggins
I just happened to come across this show and stopped because Edward James Olmos was in it. This is an excellent show, at first I thought it was a movie it was so well done. BOO CBS, for dropping such a wonderful show. Thank goodness for PBS, once again they save a meaningful program that illustrates the diversity of America.