Review: The Big Bang Theory Series Premiere Promises to Set a New Record or Does It?

Scheduled to premiere on September 24, 2007, The Big Bang Theory, starring Johnny Galecki (Leonard), Jim Parsons (Sheldon), Kelly Cuoco (Penny), Simon Helberg (Howard Wolowitz) and television newcomer Rajesh Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar) promises to set a new record - the shortest-lived sitcom in history. Unfortunately, this is not an honor a fledgling show is seeking to have bestowed upon it.

The premise of the first episode is nothing new. Guy meets girl. Guy pursues girl. A series of comedic mishaps follow...usually. The Big Bang Theory's twist on this "tried and true" formula is all of the characters (except Penny) are stereotypical geeks exponentially magnified.

When roommates Leonard and Sheldon meet their new neighbor, Penny, Leonard instantly falls head over hills "in like". Stereotypical geeks, the twosome hasn't the faintest idea how to interact with a member of the opposite sex. Leonard, more socially adept than Sheldon, attempts to engage Penny in conversation. Much to Leonard's chagrin, Sheldon continuously makes inappropriate comments. Sheldon's interest in Penny quickly dissipates and he becomes exasperated as Leonard's infatuation in Penny grows.

Making it past the opening scene without changing the channel requires considerable restraint. Unfortunately, this show has absolutely nothing going for it. It primarily revolves around the "geekiness" of the characters. Sadly, the plot, if there is one, is secondary. The set, the friends, the costumes (yes, they are costumes as no self respecting geek would dress like this duo) and the never-ending, nerve-wracking dialogue reek of unnatural "geekdom".

I am bewildered this show even made it to production. Who thought this was a good idea? Is CBS this desperate for a new show? Apparently, they are. I can say, in all honesty, if I were a geek, I would be insulted beyond belief. Furthermore, I think all self-proclaimed geeks should petition CBS to shut down production immediately.