DVD Review: Family Ties - The Second Season

By June L. Oct 17, 2007, 14:48 GMT

Steve and Elyse Keaton (Michael Gross and Meredith Baxter-Birney), once 1960s radicals, now find themselves in Reagan-Era American trying to raise a traditional suburban family. Son Alex P. Keaton (Michael J. Fox) is an ambitious Young Republican and his sister Mallory (Justine Bateman) is a shallow victim of the corporate culture, obsessed with music, clothes and boys. Their only normal kid is young Jennifer (Tina Yothers), a bit of a ...more

Most of us have some vivid recollections or fond memories of the wonderful show Family Ties.  For many, it was THE family show of the 1980’s, when everyone would gather to watch and laugh or cry with the Keatons.  The issues dealt with by this television family often started discussions in real life families, and helped bring generations together.

The second season of Family Ties was a memorable year.  Writers tackled storylines that gave the audience a variety of issues to consider.  Infidelity, premarital sex, drug use, adoption, and alcoholism were some of the topics the Keatons addressed, as well as pacifism versus slugging someone, the rekindling of career dreams, and the ever present sibling rivalry. 

Michael Gross and Meredith Baxter Birney as Stephen and Elyse Keaton were the parents every one either wanted to have or wanted to become.  Michael J. Fox, Justine Bateman and Tina Yothers as Alex, Mallory and Jennifer Keaton were our brother and sisters, friends or children, and we shared their triumphs and tears as they grew older and wiser through some hard experiences. 

In spite of being a “time capsule” of the 1980’s, there is much that is timeless in Family Ties, and is relevant to today’s audiences.   Alex on speed is just as scary now as it was in 1983, and Elyse’s speech on growing up and taking responsibility  (to the defiant 18 year old Alex) could be given by any 21st century mom to a child who wants to be a grown up, but who doesn’t want to follow any rules.  One of the best episodes in the whole series has as its guest star Tom Hanks in the role of Uncle Ned, a beloved relative with a serious problem. 

Family Ties is a series to be treasured and watched by families today for its emphasis on the strength , love and acceptance the Keatons express in their lives. 

All 22 episodes of the second season of Family Ties are presented on four discs with numerous special features.  There are new interviews with cast members in “The Making of Family Ties”, and a featurette “Michael J. Fox: The Best Gig in the World.”  This is particularly heart breaking as we compare the current state of Mr. Fox’s health to his years as Alex on the show. 

His bravery and intrepid personality continue to inspire viewers.   Included is his public service announcement concerning Parkinson Disease, and it is our fervent wish that a cure will soon be found.

For all ages, this is an excellent set to own and watch with family. 

Family Ties - The Second Season is now available at Amazon. As of yet, there is not a release date for the UK. Visit the DVD database for more information.