Mike & Molly: The Complete Fifth Season is available now from as a three-disc set via Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Created by Chuck Lorre (The Big Bang Theory, Mom) the series, renewed for a sixth season, and has benefited from the increasing popularity of Melissa McCarthy. Though her characters humor is toned downed from what we’ve seen in her films, whether Mike & Molly is a favorite depends on how you feel about McCarthy.
The series follows a now married couple (Billy Gardell and Melissa McCarthy) who first met at an overeater’s anonymous group. Mike is a Chicago Police officer and Molly is a fourth grade teacher. The couple are forced to live at home with Molly’s mom (Swoosie Kurtz). This season finds Molly leaving teaching after returning from a writers conference determined to finish her novel. Molly’s large book advance leaves Mike feeling emasculated when she buys him a car. Mike & Molly maintains an ongoing storyline, but it’s simplistic, making it possible to jump into the show at any time.
McCarthy keeps her character grounded, never resorting to the over-the-top antics often found in her films. While the writers have clearly made her the focus of the show, they have been careful to give the rest of the cast and their unique characters, time to shine. The supporting cast us a strong one, helping to contribute to the feel of Mike & Molly as a goofy, occasionally dysfunctional family. In addition to the regular cast this season Kathy Bates returns as friend of Mike’s overbearing mother as well as the always funny Margo Martindale as Peggy’s long lost sister.
Mike & Molly doesn’t necessarily break any new comedy ground, but there are several genuinely funny moments. If you’re a fan of the show already, or enjoy Melissa McCarthy, the 22 episodes available in this season will likely entertain you.
Presented in the 1.78:1 aspect ratio, Warner Bros. standard DVD release looks as good as you would expect a new release to look. Details are crisp and well defined throughout. Colors are bright and vivid.
The Dolby Digital 5.1 track provides crisp and clean dialogue. The track shows show no pops, cracks, or anomalies. English SDH subtitles are included.
The only extra is a gag reel, but it’s actually pretty funny.
