CJCroen1393
Since: Jul, 2011
03/14/2015 00:00:00
It's been years since I've seen this show, but I must say, I don't recall any shows that had the protagonist being in a wheelchair, besides Pelswick. And the few that do exist, I doubt were light-hearted comedies.
Take note, Tumblr: THIS is why representation is important.
Aldo930
Since: Aug, 2013
03/14/2015 00:00:00
I remember the show only really vaguely, but I do remember watching it...
I have recently picked up some of John Callahan's books of his cartoons, though. Funny, funny stuff; though not for anyone who's sensitive.
"They say I'm old fashioned, and live in the past, but sometimes I think progress progresses too fast."Leave a Comment:
Wonderful Show, Seriously Underrated
Though it only ran for 26 episodes, I think it was a great series. There were many things about it I loved:
Humor: I think this show is hilarious. It has funny characters and funny situations. It deals with some topics commonly considered taboo and plays them so well. The only problem with the humor I can see is that a lot of it is too mature for the target audience—as in "difficult to understand." I appreciate the show's "Slapstick Knows No Ability" attitude that goes hand in hand with the next point...
Message: This show has a great message. Of all the characters in fiction with disabilities I've ever seen, Pelswick is still the best in my opinion, mainly because the aspect was downplayed. It was neither used as a diversity ticket nor as an excuse for us to pity him, and the show went to great lengths to make sure we didn't. He was portrayed as a completely ordinary person, and I could relate to him mightily even though I'm both able-bodied and female. None of this Lead You Can Relate To nonsense.
Bravery: I think the show was great for taking so many risks. I want to see more paraplegic protagonists, but given this series' reception, I can (sadly) see why this isn't a reality. I love the potshots at political correctness. I liked the art style; it was distinctive. I loved the Fantastic Comedy aspect too, especially since it allowed Pelswick to learn lessons in an organic manner.
Basically, everything that made it an Audience Alienating Premise drew me to it and still does to this day. I guess that's why my favorite stuff is always so obscure.