Ari Graynor
Sara Gilbert
Ryan Hansen
Sara Rodier
Kristin Davis
David Alan Grier

Developed by:
Hilary Winston

2014
Comedy
CBS
TV-14

“Bad Teacher,” a television remake of the 2011 film (starring Cameron Diaz) of the same name, is executive produced by the writers of that film (Lee Eisenberg and Gene Stupnitsky) and this show’s developer, Hilary Winston. It’s a comedy that doesn’t feel new, and, despite its title, the teacher in question certainly isn’t that bad. “This Woman Would Never Become a Teacher” might be a better title.

While the jokes are pretty uninspired, the pace is brisk. So, you don’t have much time to linger on the quality of the jokes. The actors know how to deliver the lines at that pace, which keeps this show from being utterly boring. Things just happen because the writers say so; don’t expect developed writing here.

As I watched the first episode of “Bad Teacher,” I chuckled here and there, just because of how some of the beats were executed. Again, you’ve probably already seen all of those beats elsewhere. And, without this cast, none of this would even come close to working. I wouldn’t call it good exactly, but it may appeal to some viewers who want an easy laugh from a show about a woman who’s shallow and says whatever she thinks. She doesn’t come across as mean, though. She actually shows hints of caring. But she’s self-absorbed and seemingly oblivious to other people’s concerns. While she does come to the rescue of some of her students, she does so by giving their bullies a taste of their own medicine.

I really don’t know what to make of this. I didn’t see the film on which it’s based, and I don’t want to. I guess if you like a show that’s mildly irreverent, instead of completely offensive, then “Bad Teacher” may work for you. But it’s not going to blow you away. I’ll see what happens in subsequent episodes. …

After watching the second episode, I know I was right. The actors are game, but the writing is mediocre at best. However, if you want to see a decent traditional network sitcom, this may fit the bill. …

After only three episodes, “Bad Teacher” was cancelled on May 10, 2014.

Verdict: OK

About: (Source: badteacher)

BAD TEACHER is a single camera comedy based on the hit feature film about a hot, fearless and unapologetic former trophy wife who masquerades as a teacher in order to find a new man after her wealthy husband leaves her penniless. Dumped, divorced and broke due to a bad pre-nup, Meredith Davis is inspired by her friend’s smart, awkward stepdaughter, Lily, to devise the perfect 3-step plan: 1) pose as a teacher at Lily’s ritzy middle school 2) meet and marry a rich single dad 3) return to a lavish lifestyle. Using a phony resume, quick thinking Meredith effortlessly charms Principal Carl Gaines, who is easily duped and oblivious to her agenda. The faculty includes Joel, her handsome former high school classmate turned gym teacher, who sees right through her, but is amused by her antics; Irene, a shy, introverted teacher who’s overly excited at the possibility of making a best friend; and Ginny, the up-tight Faculty President and busybody who resents Meredith and suspects something’s fishy. Meredith may be the worst teacher ever, but she’s the only one qualified to impart much-needed life lessons to Lily and her friends, while she keeps an eye out for husband #2.