Driving Force - The Complete Season One

Like their devoted mother (who understandably grew apart from John while supporting his career), the Force girls are gorgeous, headstrong, and more than a little spoiled, but they form an irresistible team even when they act like trendy "O.C." girls of limited intelligence (as when debating the definition of "original"). With father John as (pardon the pun) a Force to be reckoned with, these young, attractive women hold their own with solid family values, emerging as a close-knit clan more than ready to tackle the everyday challenges of a very demanding sport. From meetings with corporate sponsors to finding time for boyfriends (a topic which gives poor Dad no end of worry), this all-American family enjoys the luxurious perks of success (including three plush homes, limousines, and a very affluent lifestyle), but they're also managing more high-pressure responsibilities than many adults. As siblings, they ultimately prove to be admirably savvy young women who've clearly benefited from the sensible and grounded upbringing that Laurie gave them (indeed, Mrs. Force is the quiet presence that keeps Driving Force from careening out of control), especially since John Force readily admits that "this dad thing doesn't come natural." And while Driving Force serves as an excellent introduction to the dynamic sport of drag racing, it primarily functions as a funny, serious, occasionally toucing and never-boring portrait of a splintered yet close-knit family that anyone can relate to--fast, occasionally furious, anything but perfect, and full of genuine love. --Jeff Shannon