“…(N)ostalgia buffs should look a little more closely before embracing the Cleavers as the ideal family they never had (and can’t hope to duplicate) because, when you penetrate the idyllic surface, it’s hard to imagine anyone really wanting to be like Ward, June and the boys. A close inspection reveals a familial purgatory worthy of Tennessee Williams–toned down for TV, certainly, but still consumed with rage, sexual turmoil and plain old mendacity. This family needs help.”