Premiered: January 18, 2009

On: Showtime

Starring: Toni Collette, John Corbett, Brie Larson, Keir Gilchrist, Rosemarie DeWitt, Patton Oswalt, Fred Ward, Pamela Reed, Matthew Del Negro, Andrew Lawrence, Nate Corddry, Hayley McFarland, Jessica St. Clair, Valerie Mahaffey & Joel Gretsch

Toni Collette is a highly underrated actress and that is never more apparent than in United States of Tara, where she plays the lead role and her four alters.

Housewife and painter Tara Gregson (Collette) suffers from dissociative identity disorder stemming from what she believes is a time she was sexually assaulted in college. Her husband Max (John Corbett) and teenage children Kate (Brie Larson) and Marshall (Keir Gilchrist) are all sympathetic, while her younger sister Charmaine (Rosemarie DeWitt) is less than convinced.

While the alters are the main focus of the show (as they should be), the family aspect is front and center. The Gregsons are instantly lovable and support each other as best they can. Kate’s rebellious phase and Marshall’s sexuality are accepted and loved by their parents and aunt.

Final say: I pledge allegiance. ★★★★★