Californication The Second Season (2008)

Californication is a profound television series that touches on some deep meaning points about human existence.  After watching it I'm not exactly sure what those points are, but I feel they are there somewhere nonetheless.  Throughout season 2 there are many subjects touched upon from vasectomies to the life and times of porn stars.  David Duchovny plays Hank Moody, a middle aged writer who can't get his shit together but is apparently irresistible to every woman he ever meets.  He meets ever challenge with which he is faced with witty comments and a nonchalant attitude.  His life is slightly complicated by the fact that he is trying to get back together with the love of his life, Karen Van Der Beek, who also happens to be the mother of his child, Becca Moody.  There are many complicated situations that this little 'family' has to deal with throughout the season and there are some great comedic moments that come of it all. 

I'm not much of one for dramas, so I may not be the best to review this series.  True, it does resemble a comedy most of the time, but the underlying structure and complexity of the relationships between the characters really does make this a very dramatic show.  Apparently, no one in California has any moral standards whatsoever.  At least no one represented in the show does.  Everyone will sleep with anyone else at the drop of a hat even though they know that the consequences are right around the corner.  Sex, Drugs, sex, money and more sex is pretty much the backdrop for most of the plot in this show.  It is interested however that now and then a little peek of humanity peers through when Moody has to deal with his daughter.  These are probably some of the best parts of the show and can actually be quite touching.  Also, it is fun to see how the consequences of people’s decisions are played out in often times hilarious ways.  Anyway, as you can see I am not a huge fan of the plot, but there are other things that really are good about this series.  The cast for example is pretty great.  They can all act and pull everything off really well.  David Duchovny does a good job doing what he does... playing David Duchovny.  One thing watching this made me realize is that no matter what character Duchovny is playing, it always seems to just be himself in the end.  Also the setting for much of the show is very pretty.  Huge mansions with parties taking place, the sunshiny beach and the picture perfect people are all nice to watch.  It almost makes me want to move to California, but then again if life there is anything like the show depicts I think I'll stay right where I am.

Overall, Californication wasn't that bad, but it just wasn't for me.  If you like drama's and love comedies I'd check it out.  If you are at all bothered by immorality and pointless plotlines, you might want to stay away.  One things for sure, none of these people would survive the zombie apocalypse.

2 ½ out of 4

Reviewed by Scott Schwarzwalder

© Copyright 2010 John Shatzer