Family Guy
Another amazing animated series following the footsteps of the first dysfunctional family in TV , The Simpsons. The outline is more or less that of the Simpsons - dumb father, pretty wife, and three kids and their routine squabbles during the lives they lead. Family Guy is in a broad sense just sexing up, and adding content to the Simpsons. Dont be surprised if you do come across gags with a lot of sexual content, violence or politics - it is rated 14 and above.
Now, I dont know how many of you have watched South Park (a unique cartoon about a group of 8 yr olds who abuse, utter racial slurs and an absurd story line which has content fit only for 18 above!) and the Simpsons. The point I am trying to make here is that Family Guy falls somewhere in between the two cartoon styles (not animation , content) and has a great mix of the simple humour of The Simpsons and the grown up one of South Park.
The Makers
Remember Johnny Bravo? Well the writer of Bravo, Seth Mcfarlane is the creator of this series and provides the major bulk of voice talents and Alex Borstein gives the female leads. The other cast comprises of Mila Kunis (the hottie from that 70’s show) and Seth Green (Dr. Evil’s son - Scott Evil in Austin Powers). Mcfarlane also has created another series called American Dad - which I have not as yet watched.
The Series
The cartoon consists of one Peter Griffin, Lois Griffin his wife, Meg his daughter and his two sons Chris and Stewie. Also, the family has a dog named Brian who can talk! Stewie is a one year old held bent on world domination and can talk though the family cant hear him, all except Brian. The series is hilarious with Peter taking the credit for his anecdotes. All in all the series is really good and you should get hold of it!
The movie
Yes there is a movie of family guy. It goes Family Guy Presents - Stewie Griffin : The untold Story. The movie is great and lives upto the expectations of the series - though it is kind of a musical. The movie is a must watch too and I would recommend you watch the series and then the movie as this would increase your experience with the movie and you will be enjoy it (that however remains to be seen!).
On similar lines
Try these on for size :
South Park - The series
South Park - Bigger, Longer and Uncut
American Dad (not watched it but highly acclaimed)
Drawn Together (acclaimed, its a cartoon reality show)
Wallace and Gromit (clay animation and highly acclaimed)
Nick Parks’ Creature Comforts (from the makers of Wallace and Gromit)
Most of these you wont get it but you could get it off the net. Hey! You didnt get that from me!!
Dont give up on animations yet. Animations can take ideas to the next level and open new avenues in humour which isnt possible even with the best special effects! As for Family Guy - WATCH IT!
P.S : If I did miss out any other cartoon/ animated series which fall in with the above please do comment!