New UPN series offer mixed results One sitcom targeting young adults diverting, another repelling

TV executives seem to be under the impression that Americans want more self-involved, young, pretty people. They certainly have their fingers on the pulse.

UPN has even built a new hour tonight around this dubious presumption. One program is diverting, the other repelling.

The pleasant one is the sitcom “The Random Years,” debuting at 9:30. It’s the story of four friends living in a rundown New York apartment building and the problems they encounter.

Three friends live in one loft. Alex (played by Will Friedle) is the sensible, hardworking one. Todd (Sean Murray) is the layabout slug who still succeeds romantically. Wiseman (Joshua Ackerman) is the wacky dental hygienist. Casey (Natalia Cigliuti) is the pretty, plain-spoken girl who moves in down the hall.

Yeah, it sounds like junior “Seinfeld.” If only the writing were that good. Still, “The Random Years” has a charming cast that does a commendable job with what they have to work with. Even if it’s not Noel Coward, it beats the dreck it follows.

“As If,” at 9, is based on a British hit show of the same name. It seems to have lost something in the translation, namely a reason for being.

The series follows six young urban adults aimlessly drifting through life. The only character that is marginally likable is Sooz, she of the wrapped cornrows and multiple piercings. She’s played by Emily Corrie, who created the role on the British series. At least Corrie won’t have to worry about overstaying her work visa.

The rest of the characters appear to be searching for where the next party’s at, and for whom they can hook up with there. At times, the music in the club scenes overpowers the dialogue, but it’s not worth the effort to rewind.

“As If” is billed as a “dramedy,” which means it’s not funny enough to be a comedy or weighty enough to be a drama. Most infomercials have more content. When UPN cuts it loose, it should float quietly away.