When fall rolled around in 2018, ABC brought a fresh wave of exciting shows to the table, from heartwarming family comedies to gripping dramas. Among the most anticipated were ‘The Rookie,’ ‘A Million Little Things,’ and ‘The Kids Are Alright.’ These shows came with big promises, and their trailers had viewers buzzing. In this article, we’ll break down the trailers for these standout shows, what they bring to the table, and why they had everyone talking.
The Rookie: A Fresh Start for Nathan Fillion
What is ‘The Rookie’ About?
In ‘The Rookie,’ Nathan Fillion trades in his long-time role in ‘Castle’ for a more serious, yet still thrilling, adventure. The show follows John Nolan, a 40-year-old man who, after a life-changing event, decides to follow his dream of becoming a police officer. Not only does it explore his struggle to adjust to the rigors of police work, but it also touches on ageism in a profession typically dominated by younger recruits.
The Rookie’s Trailer: First Impressions
The trailer for ‘The Rookie’ instantly hooked audiences with Fillion’s trademark charm, showing a mix of drama, action, and heartfelt moments. The tension between Nolan’s unorthodox approach and the expectations placed on him as an older rookie officer is clear. Viewers loved the contrast between Fillion’s comedic flair and the serious subject matter. This was the perfect mix for fans of police procedurals looking for something fresh.
Why It Became a Fall Favorite
While many police procedurals tread similar ground, ‘The Rookie’ distinguished itself with its mature lead, relatable underdog story, and Fillion’s ability to balance humor and intensity. Fans were eager to see how Nolan would earn the respect of his younger colleagues while proving that age isn’t a barrier to achieving one’s dreams.
A Million Little Things: A Drama That Hits Close to Home
The Show’s Premise
A Million Little Things centers on a group of friends who, after the sudden suicide of one of their own, begin to question everything about their lives. It explores themes of mental health, friendship, love, and loss, with a strong emphasis on emotional depth. This show aimed to bring a raw, heartfelt perspective to the world of drama.
Breaking Down the Trailer
The trailer for ‘A Million Little Things’ hit hard. It didn’t shy away from the sensitive subject matter of suicide and its ripple effects on those left behind. The emotional rollercoaster promised by the trailer made viewers not just curious, but invested. The promise of raw, real emotion was exactly what the show’s creators wanted, and the trailer delivered it beautifully.
Why It Struck a Chord with Viewers
The emotional weight of the series is undeniable, and the trailer captured that essence perfectly. It spoke to viewers who have experienced loss and showed that it’s okay to seek help and lean on loved ones. The unique angle of friendship as the core of the show made it stand out, offering a more intimate approach to the typical ensemble drama.
The Kids Are Alright: Family Comedy with a Twist
A Sneak Peek Into ‘The Kids Are Alright’
Set in the 1970s, ‘The Kids Are Alright’ takes us into the life of a Catholic family with eight boys and a no-nonsense mother. It’s a family comedy that doesn’t shy away from the chaos that comes with raising a large family, all while delivering laughs rooted in genuine, relatable family dynamics.
The Trailer: Lighthearted and Hilarious
The trailer for ‘The Kids Are Alright’ perfectly captured the show’s comedic tone. It was packed with quirky one-liners, classic family moments, and a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The dynamic between the mom, the boys, and their dad was instantly relatable to anyone who’s ever grown up in a large family, and it quickly became clear that this would be the perfect mix of heart and humor.
Why It Became a Hit for Family Viewers
With its retro 1970s setting, ‘The Kids Are Alright’ not only offered laughs but also a sense of nostalgia. Fans loved how the show didn’t rely on high-tech gadgets or advanced setups but instead focused on good old-fashioned humor. It was simple, real, and engaging—qualities that have always appealed to fans of family comedies.
The Power of ABC’s 2018-2019 Fall Trailers
ABC’s strategy for fall 2018-2019 was clear: they wanted to hit every demographic, from those who love heart-pounding action to those who prefer a heartfelt, emotionally-driven drama, to families looking for some good laughs. Each trailer delivered a promise, and the networks were clearly banking on them to keep viewers hooked.
Comparing the Trailers: Which Show Stood Out the Most?
The Rookie vs. A Million Little Things vs. The Kids Are Alright
If you’re wondering which of the three trailers captured the most attention, it depends on what you’re looking for.
- ‘The Rookie’ catered to fans of action-packed thrillers with a mature lead and intriguing premise.
- ‘A Million Little Things’ attracted viewers with its deep emotional resonance, drawing in those looking for drama that makes them feel.
- ‘The Kids Are Alright’ appealed to fans of nostalgic, feel-good family comedies with humor rooted in everyday life.
Each show brought something different to the table, and each trailer had its own unique appeal. But the real question was: which show would actually deliver on the promise made in the trailers?
The Ultimate ABC Fall Lineup of 2018-2019: A Viewer’s Guide
The Rookie
If you’re into action-packed, character-driven police procedurals with a mature twist, ‘The Rookie’ is your show. Nathan Fillion’s performance is an absolute standout, bringing a unique balance of humor and grit to the role of a man who’s living his dream, even if it’s a bit later in life.
A Million Little Things
For those seeking something emotionally intense and thought-provoking, this show hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for anyone who loves drama with a lot of heart and doesn’t shy away from hard topics like mental health and the complexities of friendship.
The Kids Are Alright
For fans of family comedies, especially those who grew up in large families, ‘The Kids Are Alright’ provides a nostalgic, hilarious ride. It offers a fun escape and reminds viewers of the beauty and chaos of family life.
Conclusion: The ABC Fall Trailers that Shaped 2018-2019
The ABC Fall 2018-2019 lineup brought an exciting range of new shows that catered to a variety of tastes. From the action-packed thrills of ‘The Rookie’ to the emotionally-charged drama of ‘A Million Little Things’, and the charming family comedy of ‘The Kids Are Alright,’ ABC proved they were more than capable of creating diverse, engaging content. These trailers set the tone for some of the most talked-about TV shows of the season—and each one lived up to its promise in its own way.
FAQs
1. What is ‘The Rookie’ about?
‘The Rookie’ follows John Nolan, a 40-year-old man who decides to become a police officer after a life-changing event. The show explores themes of age, perseverance, and the challenges of fitting in with younger colleagues.
2. Why was ‘A Million Little Things’ so popular?
The emotional depth of ‘A Million Little Things,’ coupled with its exploration of friendship and mental health, resonated deeply with viewers, making it one of ABC’s standout hits.
3. What makes ‘The Kids Are Alright’ different from other family comedies?
Set in the 1970s, ‘The Kids Are Alright’ mixes nostalgia with humor, focusing on the dynamics of a large Catholic family with eight boys.
4. How does ‘The Rookie’ compare to other police procedurals?
‘The Rookie’ stands out by focusing on an older protagonist, which offers a fresh perspective on the typical rookie cop narrative.
5. Is ‘A Million Little Things’ based on real events?
No, it’s a fictional drama. However, its themes of mental health and the impact of suicide are very real, contributing to the show’s emotional authenticity.
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