We like NBC’s “Bent”

Wilson and I enjoy watching TV together after the kids go to bed.  It’s how we relax.  But Wilson doesn’t like new shows. He claims we have too many programs stacked up on the DVRs (yes, we have two because I am a show hoarder) and we should be reading more.

(A secret about Wilson: he is a closet intellectual and likes to read the great classics. Right now he’s in a Shakespeare phase and some nights would be happy to sit together and read “Othello” instead of watching “The Office.” I know, it’s crazy. )

But I digress. Each new season, I get excited to try shows that have buzz or involve some of my favorite writers and/or actors, but Wilson can be a curmudgeon about adding anything to our full repertoire. So imagine my delight when he suggested watching the new NBC comedy, “Bent.”  He read a review of the show and thought it sounded like its dry humor and quirky characters were in our wheelhouse.

The first two episodes were promising. Usually pilots suck, even if the show goes on to be a favorite (see ”Parenthood”) But “Bent” is special. It stars the stunning and talented Amanda Peet, who despite her fresh-faced beauty, also pulls off the hapless girl-next-door vibe….and David Walton, who –in his perfectly worn jeans and beat up leather jacket—is also mad handsome and exudes sex appeal.

"Bent"/NBC

Peet plays “Alex” — a divorced mom to a charming pre-teen daughter– who’s trying to keep it together after her cheating ex got sent to the slammer for insider trading. Walton is “Pete,” a surfing, drinking, philandering contractor who is building her a new kitchen while nosing in on her personal life.  The chemistry is palpable but it’s their clever, witty banter that makes the show work. I’m a sucker for smart writing and this show delivers.

Think “Scrubs” meets “30 Rock.“ We had to rewind a few times to catch some of the irreverent, LOL lines. The supporting characters seem promising as well, with a classic Jeffrey Tambor turn as Pete’s bit-actor dad, still looking for his close-up.

There’s a line in the episode that refers to the quote, “I may be bent but I’m not broken….” so I’m guessing the show’s name is a nod to both  lead characters who are getting past life challenges (her painful divorce, his gambling addiction and other bad habits.)  If the first two shows are any indication, the show is going for more than cheap laughs.

“Bent” has gotten great reviews so I hope the placement against “Modern Family” on Wednesday nights doesn’t kill it before it has a chance to catch on.

If it’s worth Wilson’s time, it’s worth yours.