‘Fuller House’: Netflix takes on the ’90s

Courtesy of Netflix

America’s favorite ’90s family is back on the small screen.

Thankfully, not all 1990’s television spinoff shows end up like a clichéd version of their counterparts — we’re looking at you “Girl Meets World.” Netflix, an online streaming service, premiered the first season of “Fuller House” on Feb. 26, making 13 episodes available for fans to binge-watch around the world.

The new show revolves around a recent widow, D. J. Tanner-Fuller (Candace Cameron-Bure), a veterinarian who’s struggling to raise three boys on her own. They range from an infant to a pre-teen. She gets help from sister Stephanie (Jodie Sweetin), who halts her worldwide disc jockey career to stay with D. J. and her family. D. J.’s quirky best friend Kimmy Gibbler (Andrea Barber) also tags along with her daughter.

The pilot, cleverly titled “Our Very First Show, Again,” features the entire Tanner family, minus Michelle… this is when the cast gives the camera their best side-eye after Danny (Bob Saget) says “she’s too busy running her fashion empire,” targeting the Olsen twins for not making a comeback.

The Tanners are joined by Joey (Dave Coulier), Uncle Jesse (John Stamos), his wife Rebecca (Lori Loughlin) and their twin sons Nicky and Alex (Blake and Dylan Tuomy-Wilhoit).

Fuller House is intricately written, with its timely — yet awkward — humor. The punchlines mention all the latest trends including: Coachella, Donald Trump, Fifty Shades of Grey, sexual innuendos and cringe worthy social media lingo.

In one episode, Fuller House spoofs the popular dating reality show, “The Bachelorette.” D. J. is portrayed as the lucky girl who gets to go on separate dates with Steve and Matt, in order to determine who she truly loves

**Spoiler Alert** she chooses herself.

Each episode is uniquely illustrated and there have already been trademarks created on the show. Breakthrough character Max Fuller (Elias Harger) entertains the audience with his “holy chalupas.” Kimmy has created a new witty dance routine, rightfully named the “Gibbler Gallop.”

The show also features heartthrob and D.J.’s former flame — and current contender for her heart — Steve Hale (Scott Weigner); newcomer Dr. Matt Harmon (John Brotherton) and Gibbler’s ex-husband Fernando (Juan Pablo Di Pace). Each of these men bring their own style and humor to the show. Hale and Harmon compete for the widow’s heart, while Fernando fights for Kimmy’s love with his thick Argentinian accent and flashy attire.

Fuller House is actually the spinoff of the classic sitcom “Full House.” The original cast reprised their beloved roles. Jeff Franklin returned as the showrunner and executive producer, along with Miller and Boyett as executive producers.

Full House ran for eight seasons from 1987 until 1995. The family oriented show began as news anchor Danny Tanner became a widow and is left to take care of his three daughters: 10-year-old D. J., 5-year-old Stephanie and 10-month-old Michelle. He requests the help of brother-in-law Jesse Katsopolis and comedian best friend Joey Gladstone. The show unveiled great depths of each character and taught valuable lessons from honesty, self-confidence and family values.

Stamos, who has ownership stake in the original series, became an advocate to find a new home for the new series. After months of speculation, Stamos confirmed that the world would get another chance to see the San Fran clan back together. The news was exciting for everyone, with or without Mary-Kate and Ashley, it’s like rekindling with an old flame.

The spinoff keeps fans content and includes the same flare as the original series. We smile when Joey busts out Mr. Woodchuck and his “cut-it-out” hand gesture. When Jesse mumbles “have mercy.” When Stephanie says “How rude!” When Danny obsesses over cleanliness and when Kimmy is just Kimmy.

Despite harsh critical reviews by prominent outlets,  it was announced last week Netflix has renewed the show for a second season.

Here’s to the ’90s!