Fresh Off the Boat, season 2 (24 episodes)

release year: 2015-16
genre: comedy/drama
viewing setting: home streaming 8/2-5/25)

synopsis: This series recreates the childhood of a boy whose Chinese family moves to Florida for a new start, causing all sorts of humorous balancing acts between their own heritage/behavior and that of the country they live and work in.

impressions: The second season's focus shifted subtly from mainly Eddie to the entire family. There were more mishaps with the HoA, family members, work problems, and schoolmates. It was still just as fun and lighthearted as the first season.

acting: Same ensemble cast. Constance Wu is the mother, who's obsessed with making things (and people) better and micromanaging everything. Randall Park is her husband, who brought his family south to open a steakhouse. Hudson Yang is the oldest boy, and the author of the book that led to this show; he leans heavily into rap music and lifestyle. Forrest Wheeler and Ian Chen are the younger boys, both of whom apply themselves a lot more than their brother. Lucille Soong is the grandmother, who speaks in Chinese and has a biting wit. Chelsey Criso and Ray Wise are the neighbors who befriend the family.

final word: Fun and easy to watch for doses of realistic humor.

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