The Goldbergs (TV Series) The Circle of Driving (2013) User Reviews

More than meets the eye (obligatory '80s reference)

[Mr-Fusion · 7/10 · 8 September 2017]

I remember when they were first advertising "The Goldbergs" and I'd written it off as cheap nostalgia. And in some ways, it walks that line somewhat precariously. But as far as the first episode goes, it's about the characters, and that's where it really excels. George Segal and Jeff Garlin, in particular; never underestimate the comedic value of the irate pantsless father figure. And in typical '80s sitcom fashion, once the end credits approach, the family conflicts are put aside for the sake of harmony. But hey, it's been an enjoyable outing.

The key to making it all work is Patton Oswalt's narration. These are solid actors throughout, but his is my favorite presence.

7/10

Not a mere nostalgia trip

[Fluke_Skywalker · 7/10 · 22 August 2017]

Plot; A young man uses his family's new video camera to document their daily life in the 1980s.

Though set smack dab in the middle of the 80s, this first episode is far from being a 22 minute nostalgic love letter or fan service. Where the time and place mattered and affected the characters and their stories in The Wonder Years--to which The Goldbergs was undoubtedly compared to when it debuted--here it's more window dressing. Perhaps that's inevitable considering the political and cultural tumult of the 60s, but The Goldbergs doesn't seem interested in exploring those alleyways. Not yet, at least. Whereas The Wonder Years was a dramedy with an emphasis on the former, The Goldbergs is dramedy with a substantial focus on the latter. It's more about navigating the every day dysfunction of family life. Characters yell and fight but we never once doubt their love for one another. It's all safe, and there's nothing wrong with that. With rock-solid veterans like Jeff Garlin, Wendi McLendon-Covey and George Segal supplemented by a talented young cast, it delivers enough laughs and knowing nods to satisfy.

The Circle of Driving

[studioAT · 6/10 · 10 October 2020]

The childhood of writer Adam F Goldberg (no, not the Adam Goldberg who was on 'Friends) brought to life in sitcom form.

Owing an awful lot to shows like 'The Middle', 'Malcolm in the Middle' and massively to 'The Wonder Years', we've seen all the elements here before, but this pilot episode does show a lot of promise.

With some nice moments, lines and examples of heart, this was fun.

Awesome

[cakwalkers · 10/10 · 10 December 2022]

Loved the episode but yeah I did notice some modern cars driving past them lol but cool they made it authentic and he actually drove around in a grand wagoneer (I have one in almost same color). Could see some modern trucks and a prius and a few cars parked at residences were new as well. Might be a good idea to block off some streets and have period cars driving around. Yes they did have 2 period cars follow them and the police car was period, but quite a few noticeable modern cars were there as well. And I noticed some trash cans that were not period and were from modern times but all in all a very hilarious episode. The actors are awesome! It's one of my favorite shows to binge watch. Hope it gets renewed for another season!

Goldbergs

[leilalindsey · 5/10 · 2 November 2018]

I thought the Goldberg's were set in the 80s first of all on The Circle of Driving episode why are there blue recycle cans ? In the 80 s it was aluminum trash cans and recyclyes went in plastic bins or totes also there were No modern cars like Toyota hatchbacks or prius's then. Just a heads up !! Might want to fix these things in further episodes!!