Northern Exposure

Former fans of "Twin Peaks" who feel that show has become too ridiculous to bear may find the snowy terrain of Northern Exposure a pleasing substitute. The series seems to have struck a happy balance: just ridiculous enough. [8 Apr 1991, p.C2]

Viewers who find Twin Peaks too weird, thirtysomething too whiny and L.A. Law too slick should look north . . . north to Alaska . . . specifically to tiny Cicely, where Dr. Joel Fleischman resumes his medical practice tonight...But don't worry that Northern Exposure is overly odd. This gently witty show, from the creators of "St. Elsewhere", breaks the rules of television physics: It remains down-to-earth, yet soars. [8 Apr 1991, p.C1]

Here's a show full of delightful surprises, with something for everyone. It's hard to imagine anyone resisting its many charms. Twin Peaks too ponderous? Lawyer shows too heavy (and too many)? Sitcoms too silly? As Goldilocks said of the little bear's porridge, this one gets it just right. [8 Apr 1991, p.1D]

Northern Exposure returns with its comic sensibilities hilariously and charmingly intact...This is a show that has the potential - with its near-perfect ensemble and engaging style - to join the ranks of TV's best comedies.[8 Apr 1991, p.5]

Compared to much of what passes for comedy (and drama) in prime time, North ern Exposure is wonderful. The writers rarely condescend and they seem to assume (Oh, heresy!) that there are some intelligent people watching television. [8 Apr 1991]

As it was before, it's a wonderfully quirky show, funny and warm and all that good stuff. [8 Apr 1991, p.C-7]

What's most becoming about the program is its eccentric sense of community. [8 Apr 1991, p.38]