by Jessica Sherry

Created on: February 19, 2007   Last Updated: May 21, 2007

America's fascination with the afterlife has finally made its way into primetime. What started with horror movies has taken center stage on television with shows like Supernatural, Ghost Whisperer, and, of course, NBC's Medium. What makes this show different is the fact that it is based on a real psychic, giving it an air of believability. Yet, I do not think this leads to its success. Frankly, it's not even the cool psychic abilities that make the show a winner. The Dubois family is a likeable one, and we are interested in finding out what happens to them. Allison is a mom, wife, and often frustrated psychic who works for the district attorney's office. Oddly, even though she proves herself to them over and over, she often struggles with her co-workers over her skills. Joe, her husband, is a likeable guy, supporting his wife and fathering three very cute daughters. As a family, physic or not, they amuse viewers. The cases Allison solves are not the most riveting crimes on television. And frankly, it is just a matter of time before Allison dreams enough to answer all of the questions presented to her by a case. That aspect of the show is more or less a waiting game, since we know that by the end Allison will see the crime in her sleep. What is more intriguing is the family and how they deal with this unique, not always glamorous ability.

If you're looking for spooky settings, ghostly characters, and frightening creatures, this show is not the answer. It does not rely on special effects like the other shows in this genre. Rather, Medium is more a snapshot of an extraordinary family trying to handle day-to-day life. Along the way, Allison solves crimes by using her talent to help others.

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