While the actual jokes on Parker Lewis [Can't Lose] feel fairly dated as do the wardrobes, the show's stylistic template still feels impressive, particularly compared to other comedies of the time.
Parker Lewis Can't Lose is one of the rare early-'90s teen TV shows that are still watchable. That's a credit to the writing of creator Clyde Phillips and the zany but grounded direction of a fledgling Andy Tennant.
The writing is only adequate, but the cast and hip musical score are appealing. The visual gags make this sitcom pilot look like a live action version of a Road Runner cartoon.
When high school shows were a dime a dozen, creators Clyde Phillips and Lon Diamond challenged the genre with unique camera angles, narration and cartoon sound effects making it a hit among those looking for something different.
Parker takes to television better than Ferris. For one thing, Parker is played by Corin Nemec, who is indeed white-bread perfect for the kind of fellow who finds the very concept of school totally bizarre.
it's kind of surprising that it worked as well as it did. Part of that was the fact that [Corin] Nemec was a genuinely likable guy heading up a likable ensemble, and part of it was the clever writing that didn't talk down to its audience.
Parker Lewis [Can't Lose] remains one of the most relentlessly affable shows ever produced. While the storylines don't always click, the pacing is so fast that it's hard to mind much, and the camaraderie of the cast never becomes forced.
