Currently on IMDb, the L.A. Complex holds 3.8/10 stars. Which is absolutely ludicrous.
The only way I can imagine it having this rating is a bunch of people that, without actually watching an episode, saw the premise (which makes you think of Melrose Place) and automatically dismissed it as trash. However the distinction people seem to miss is that the characters here aren't rich and glamorous. They're dreamers (living in a shabby Complex "the Lux") who work hard at their craft and struggle with money. In fact one of the characters has to resort to living in her car.
Also, it's a lot more realistic than Melrose Place (something I was surprised by)
At first, I didn't see much potential. But the pilot was captivating, making the characters likable and not just simple clichés. It was zany and dramatic, with good direction and writing from Martin Gero (Bored to Death, Stargate) and some generally good acting ranging from mediocre to pretty great (i.e. Jewel Staite). Somebody said "the pilot bursts with energy". And I could not agree more. The pace and rhythm was excellent for a first episode and I can't wait to see more.
I can't really say too much about the characters so far. I almost instantly liked Abby, Alicia, Raquel and Connor. Nick is a tad too dumb but not a total waste and Tariq is unfortunately flat (so far).
It's no award winner (Teen Choice, sure .. Prime time Emmy, no). But it is surprisingly refreshing and top shelf for what it is.
