Many sleuths of literature, film or television have idiosyncrasies or handicaps to overcome. It's a common theme that many of them use their personal foibles as an occupational aid. Adrian Monk (Tony Shaloub) is one such character. As a P. I. he has a reputation as a wunderkind, super sleuth, savant, and deductive virtuoso. Despite his OCD, his panoply of phobias, and a lingering emotional wound from the loss of his wife, Trudy, Monk is called in when the police can't solve a murder. He uses his debilitating attention to details to view a crime scene or piece together clues as no one else can. And it is all done in humor.
"Monk" is one of the best comedies of all time. The main character is enchantingly lovable and humorously quirky. Tony Shaloub's performance is perfection. Because Monk has difficulties interfacing with the world, he has an assistant to act as a liaison/aide. That role is occupied by Traylor Howard (as Natalie) or Bitty Schram (as Sharona), depending upon the season you are watching. Both actresses are delightful.
Monk assists the SFPD via Captain Leland Stottlemeyer (Ted Levine) and his main aide Randall (Jason Gray-Stanford). These characters become part of the Monk "family" and fan club as the series progresses.
Fans of whodunits will appreciate the solutions which Monk unveils. The writing does not sacrifice worthwhile sleuthing for comedy.
On a personal note, "Monk" was one of my sister's favorite shows. We lost her to MS a few years back, but whenever I watch an episode of "Monk", it reminds me of our shared appreciation for a series that has such a kind and gentle core.
If you are a fan of Tony Shaloub, be sure to view the film "Big Night" (1996).
"Monk" is one of the best comedies of all time. The main character is enchantingly lovable and humorously quirky. Tony Shaloub's performance is perfection. Because Monk has difficulties interfacing with the world, he has an assistant to act as a liaison/aide. That role is occupied by Traylor Howard (as Natalie) or Bitty Schram (as Sharona), depending upon the season you are watching. Both actresses are delightful.
Monk assists the SFPD via Captain Leland Stottlemeyer (Ted Levine) and his main aide Randall (Jason Gray-Stanford). These characters become part of the Monk "family" and fan club as the series progresses.
Fans of whodunits will appreciate the solutions which Monk unveils. The writing does not sacrifice worthwhile sleuthing for comedy.
On a personal note, "Monk" was one of my sister's favorite shows. We lost her to MS a few years back, but whenever I watch an episode of "Monk", it reminds me of our shared appreciation for a series that has such a kind and gentle core.
If you are a fan of Tony Shaloub, be sure to view the film "Big Night" (1996).