Nel segno del padre

The Carters live on Maple Drive in unnamed New England town and they look like they're getting ready for a red letter day. Their youngest William McNamara is about to tie the knot with Lori Loughlin. But all of their kids feel just like they're Doing Time On Maple Drive.

The parents are James Sikking and Bibi Besch and its another case of what seems like an ideal family isn't all that ideal. Sikking is a restaurant owner of what looks like a posh establishment, he's always seeming so uptight. As for Besch, she drinks on the sly, but always is concerned with appearances whatever the situation.

Oldest is son Jim Carrey who does absolutely no funny shtick here, but gives a fine performance as a kid who is not drinking discreetly. We never really find out any specifics in his case, but given his parents we can fill in the blanks.

McNamara finally comes out as gay and just can't marry Loughlin. Besch is upset because this all so embarrassing to her. After that daughter Jaynie Brook lets loose with some secrets of her own that shock her husband David Byron who is just observing his in-laws with a cool appraising, but not approving eye.

Doing Time On Maple Drive got a few Emmy nominations including a truly deserved one for Bibi Besch. And in William McNamra you see a fine portrayal of gay kid ready to ruin his own life to satisfy what society thinks he ought to be.

A must for gay audiences.