Northern Exposure even remains fresh after more than a decade of other shows ripping it off. The quirkiness isn't just a gimmick, Northern Exposure is the real deal.
At its best, Northern Exposure was quirky and breezy. It made the edges of Alaska seem like an inviting place, as Fleischman's prickly personality highlighted the warmth of everyone else.
Joel's Jewishness is refreshingly up-front, and it's good to see a few Native Americans on TV for a change. But this domesticated Twin Peaks is too precious by half.