Surviving the 'Greek' pantheon

(Published April 19, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor

Brotherhood, brashness and beer are crucial components to the survival of some college students in the fresh comedy-drama “Greek,” created by writer-producer Patrick Sean Smith.

Brainy freshman Rusty (Jacob Zachar) tries to fit in by joining a fraternity, hoping for admission into the “cool” crowd. His older sister Casey (Spencer Grammer) is a popular sorority member, a sweet girl torn between her directionless but passionate ex, Cappie (Scott Michael Foster), and her ambitious but two-timing current beau, Evan (Jake McDorman). Being related to Casey easily gets Rusty into Cappie’s fraternity, so the new kid has to prove himself a worthy addition to the ranks while juggling academic responsibilities.

“Greek” presents several romantic rivalries, aside from the staple frat competitions. Characters are written as imperfect but fleshed-out young people, making it hard to classify anyone as a classic villain. Strategically timed flashbacks add dimension to Evan, while the initially despicable Rebecca (Dilshad Vadsaria) eventually redeems herself.

Season one partly chronicles Rusty’s growth, as he’s initiated into the intricacies of college life. He gains a few reliable friends (a newly outed gay guy from the rival frat, and a conservative Christian roommate), and briefly dates a smart, attractive girl. He’s protective of his sister Casey and she’s not embarrassed by her nerdy and “uncool” brother. In an environment where students are surrounded by uncaring and competitive peers almost 24/7, this unconditional rapport is welcome and refreshing.

The focus on personal discoveries and fellowship in this volatile period is consistently creative. Peer pressure, parties and perplexing predicaments recreate familiar situations, and manage to cram in several characters that are easy to identify with. The motivated, the misguided and the misunderstood make a fun, combustible mix.

Season 2 of “Greek” airs Sundays (7 p.m.) and Mondays (12 p.m. and 4 p.m.) on Hallmark.