The prequel series “Ted,” streaming on Peacock, is filled with a mixture of emotions while following John Bennett (Max Burkholder) and his teddy bear companion as they navigate through high school.
Director Seth MacFarlane helms the seven-episode television version of his “Ted” movie franchise that began in 2012.
Set in the 90’s, the series is the most outstanding, meaningful comedy there’s been in a long time masterfully addressing social issues, stereotypes and generational divides within the show’s timeline.
The premise for the franchise requires little explanation. A young boy wished upon a shooting star for his teddy bear to come to life – and it did. In the series pilot episode “Just Say Yes”, the foul-mouthed talking bear Ted, voiced by MacFarlane, is enrolled into high school with John. Ted is not exactly thrilled by this, and after numerous failed attempts to be expelled, the rest of the series takes off as he and John get into troubles.
The series does not just revolve around John and Ted, though. Unlike the reprised roles from the original films, complex character Blaire Bennett (Giorgia Whigham) also appears on-screen for the first time.
Introduced as John’s cousin, she provides LGBTQ representation and serves as the character who is always trying to look out for him despite being a bad influence sometimes, that we can infer is because of the damage she experienced.
Already not seeing eye to eye with her hot-tempered, conservative uncle, Matty Bennett (Scott Grimes), she comes out in episode “Loud Night” and receives constant back-lash from him. Even though John and Ted do not understand, they both have and show a mutual respect to Blaire, instead of being outright homophobic.
Pubescent John (Max Burkholder) inhabits a heavy Boston accent sounding almost identical to Mark Wahlberg who played grown-up John Bennett in the movie franchise. His spot-on impression helps bring charisma to not only his personality but the rest of the show. Burkholder’s performance is captivating, leaving a positive impression.
Rated for Mature Audience (MA) by critics, viewer discretion is advised: this show is not for the weak. Rather, it contains numerous inappropriate, vulgar and sophomoric jokes capturing cynical humor but in the 90’s-edition. Even with the content rating, teens are clearly the target audience.
I am somewhat embarrassed to admit there were multiple instances in which I laughed out loud, wiped a tear or had to compose myself so that I could stop the chest pain I had before losing track of my breathing. MacFarlane proves he’s still got it.
In accordance with MacFarlane’s sitcom-styled work, the same mannerisms and jokes seem to be recycled from his “Family Guy” series that, at this point, can be turned into a mixtape cassette.
Not only do voice actors Burkholder and MacFarlane crossover from previously starring on “Family Guy,” but there are parallels found in the storyline dynamic between Brian and Stewie to John and Ted. They both share similar aspects of character, such as Stewie being far more pre-matured for his age and Ted as a stuffed bear. Along with their behavioral tendencies, they both always find themselves in comedically dumb situations.
Elements embedded in the narrative’s storyline include foreshadowing as the “Ted” movie franchise follows Ted preventing John from growing up, but the prequel series, details them growing up together. For example, the origin of the “Thunder Buddies” song is coined by the end of episode “He’s Gotta Have It”. If paid closer attention to, so many references are tied together that make this a binge-worthy TV show.
Taking into account thought-appeal, “Ted” offers a good laugh to those in need of it. Those who enjoy cynical humor and hone an appreciation for comedy should consider watching the prequel series. But be warned, there is just enough sentiment that might touch your heartstrings.
