Anger Management: Season One

Charlie Sheen began his return to sitcoms—following a public meltdown that ended his reign at Two and a Half Men—with this direct (and very funny) shot at the media circus, in which the actor still boasts the easy presence, self-effacing attitude, deadpan reactions, and stealth timing that made him a superstar. In this FX-aired production, Sheen plays Charlie Goodson, a former pro ballplayer and reformed rage-aholic, who is now an anger management counselor. Although effective on his job, Charlie's private life is a cascade of bad decisions, including sleeping with his own therapist, Kate (Selma Blair). But he has a surprisingly mature détente with his ex-wife, Jennifer (Shawnee Smith), and wants to be a good dad to his daughter, Sam (Daniela Bobadilla), easily the healthiest and most aware character in the show. Along with a supporting cast that includes Brett Butler (as the local bartender), Michael Boatman (Charlie's sardonic neighbor), and Barry Corbin (the obligatory crotchety old man in his weekly group), real-life pop Martin Sheen makes a guest appearance as Charlie's dad. Balancing raunchy jokes with heartwarming lessons, Sheen once again seems right at home. Compiling all 10 episodes from the 2012 debut season, extras include an interview with Sheen, a behind-the-scenes featurette, and a gag reel. Recommended. (S. Axmaker)