Fall TV Preview: The Big Bang Theory

CBS has a reputation for programming that appeals to older viewers, so to combat that, the network has introduced a number of new shows with younger casts.

Which brings us to The Big Bang Theory, a new sitcom from creators Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady. The show centers around two young nerdy scientists, Leonard (Johnny Galecki, "Roseanne") and Sheldon (Jim Parsons), who have their lives turned upside down when a beautiful young woman named Penny (Kaley Cuoco, "8 Simple Rules") moves in across the hall from the apartment they share. Their two equally nerdy friends, Wolowitz (Simon Helberg) and Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar), are also along for the ride.

The nerdy foursome is, of course, socially inadequate, and their attempts to woo and impress Penny make up most of the show's laughs. Galecki is great in the straight-man lead, making Leonard more likable than weird, while Parsons is the one who gets the laughs with his tightly-wound Sheldon. Helberg and Nayyar each bring a unique identity to their characters, and have great chemistry with the leads. You never knew nerds could be so different, and so funny. While there is plenty of nerd-speak, it does not overpower the dialogue. In the wrong hands, the jokes could become easily annoying.

Cuoco has little to do but play off the guys, and her character seems a little dense to the guys' constant attention. Allowing Penny to have a little more depth, especially since she begins to "hang out" with the nerds, will make the show better. By the end of the first episode, you don't totally "buy" the idea that she would hang out with these guys. It is a minor point in an otherwise very funny show.

Parents should be aware that, while it is a funny show, some of the jokes involve sexual themes and language, so it is not appropriate for children 12 or under, despite an early time slot. While it is not exactly a "family hour" show, the show does have some broad, "nerd" based humor that will appeal to a number of viewers looking for a replacement for "Everybody Loves Raymond" and "The King of Queens." If it tries to be too cutting-edge, it will lose its quirky appeal.

The pilot is directed by television veteran James Burrows (Cheers, Friends, Frazier), and if future episodes keep the same tone, the show has a chance. The only real drawback is the hugely annoying theme song by Barenaked Ladies. It, along with the opening credit montage, is a real mess.

The show airs Mondays on CBS.