We always hear how great the ‘80s were, and thanks to “The Goldbergs,” we can experience a little bit of the decade of decadence on our TV screens.
“The Goldbergs” is a hilarious show about a family’s antics in the age of parachute pants and helmet hair. Based on the exploits of the real Goldberg family, it is relatable even in modern day.
Adam Goldberg is the youngest son and the narrator of the series. He is your classic ‘80s nerd, who cherishes all things video games and movies. The source of all the show’s stories is his video camera that he uses to captures home movies.
Beverly Goldberg is the original “smother” that takes no prisoners when it comes to protecting her family. Unfortunately, as most parents find out, kids grow up and do not need as much protection. Her tacky wool sweaters and aqua net hair are iconic symbols of the ‘80s mom. She spends all her newfound time keeping after her husband Murray, who is very simple. Pants are his enemy and the living room recliner is his best friend.
Adam’s siblings are growing up as best they can. Erika, the oldest Goldberg, is the smartest of the bunch and is constantly trying to separate herself from her crazy family. However, she only ends up helping them out in the end.
She helps keep her brothers in line throughout the show. Adam’s other sibling is Barry. He is classic middle child who is in love with the Sixers basketball team and “The Karate Kid.”
These two look out for Adam and help guide him through the turbulence of adolescence.
This show is highly recommended to watch, especially considereing its timeless appeal.
In today’s TV industry it’s easy to feel like you’re wasting time staring at a screen with subpar plots and themes, but “The Goldbergs” is a classic series that will be talked about for decades to come.
It teaches real life lessons in cheesy ‘80s sitcom fashion, which adds to the show’s charm. The beauty of this show is it can be cheesy because the ‘80s were in fact cheesy.
While it hits many tropes and clichés, it also offers things you don’t see in modern TV. Adam’s best friend is a girl named Emmy, but contrary to the cliché that they are in love with each other, these two are just friends. They have no romantic plots or feelings and it is refreshing to watch.
The parents are another aspect of this show that really stands out. These days parents are either pictured as clueless Neanderthals or cookie cutter role models. Beverly and Murray bring a welcome and realistic example of parenting.
They certainly are not perfect, but they have plenty of tricks up their sleeves. They display moments of wisdom and plot development.
Harrison Miller, a freshman criminal justice major, enjoys the show. “The family dynamic was fantastic,” he said.
No one can argue this show is one for the record books. So dust off that spandex, bring out your aqua net and leg warmers, because it’s about to get cringey. “The Goldbergs” are here to make you say “did people really wear that?” and they’re not ashamed to make it a little weird.