Fall TV Preview: ABC's Carpoolers

Carpoolers is one of the more intriguing shows to premiere this fall. ABC is counting on Carpoolers to hold down the 8:30pm slot on Tuesday nights, a primetime television period. The basics of the show are fresh and original: unique premise, good writer/producer and room for growth. The major concerns from the beginning are: will the show gain enough viewers early to become a regular, steady show and will all the "car scenes" get old after a couple episodes?

Jerry O'Connell, the most notable member of the cast, has had a hit-or-miss career to this point. Between the successes of Jerry Maguire, Sliders and Crossing Jordan, there have been sub-par results from Joe's Apartment, Tom Cats and Kangaroo Jack. Many in the entertainment industry believe O'Connell has the range and recognition to become an A-list movie star at some point. The overall success of Carpoolers will affect the time line of that opportunity.

Carpoolers has a witty premise - four guys from the suburbs, commuting into work everyday together, talking about their families, careers, hopes and dreams. The obvious limitations of the show (most will take place in the car, smoothly introducing new characters) will place a greater emphasis on smart writing, quick-wit humor and an abundance of creativity with car and traffic jokes. Bruce McCulloch (Kids in the Hall) and Anthony and Joe Russo (Arrested Development) have a history of success, but many critics question how involved these "names" in the industry will actually be in the week-to-week writing of the show.