Close Enough

Close Enough explores the often chaotic and surreal journey of modern adulthood, specifically navigating the challenges of marriage, parenthood, and personal aspirations in one's thirties. While the show presents themes that resonate with the universal struggles of growing up and balancing responsibilities, such as the protagonists Josh and Emily genuinely striving to be good, loving parents to Candice and fostering familial bonding amidst their struggles, its core messaging often contradicts biblical values. The series is rated TV-14 due to consistent profanity, suggestive sexual content, crude references, and animated partial nudity, which are at odds with Christian principles of purity and wholesome speech. Furthermore, characters frequently exhibit "mild to moderate disrespect and engage in rebellious behaviors," often driven by a desire to cling to youth rather than embrace adult responsibilities with maturity. The show's humor and problem-solving frequently lean into hyperbolic nonsense and instant gratification, rather than emphasizing virtuous decision-making or self-control. Regarding character morality, while Josh and Emily are portrayed as "flawed individuals" who are "trying to do their best" for their daughter, moral accountability is often situational and inconsistent. "Close Enough" reportedly "stumbles over its moral footing," with any "good life lessons" or moral takeaways often feeling like "last-minute additions" rather than integral narrative arcs. The worldview presented is largely relativistic and materialistic, focusing on the immediate gratification of desires and the navigation of an absurd, heightened reality in pursuit of personal happiness or simply getting by. There is a notable absence of a transcendent view of life or meaning, with the characters' struggles and triumphs remaining firmly within a secular, self-focused framework. Redemption themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, or grace, as understood Biblically, are not central or explicitly explored, though one instance shows a character's decision to sacrifice himself before being rescued by his friends who convince him of the benefits of growing old. In terms of family values, Josh and Emily are depicted as a "happily married" couple who, despite their individual flaws and "manchild" tendencies from Josh, are "good parents" who deeply love and care for Candice. They make efforts to provide for her, even if it means unconventional living arrangements like sharing a duplex with divorced friends to afford a better school district. However, the portrayal of parenting also shows moments of "parental neglect" as they juggle personal aspirations, and their daughter Candice sometimes exhibits "troubling unchildlike behavior" like leading a "rebellion of no rules" among classmates, though she later shows remorse. Faith representation is minimal, with only a passing, possibly satirical, mention of "conservative Christian dinosaurs" as a comedic element. There is no substantial or respectful portrayal of Christianity or faith practices to offer a positive alignment with Christian values; instead, the show largely operates in a secular space, prioritizing entertainment through adult humor and surreal situations.