'The Orville' Review

Note: This may have minor spoilers for the first episode.

Fox TV has recently released a new sci-fi comedy show called, The Orville, starring Seth MacFarlane and Adrianne Palicki and, I have to say, I am impressed. We all know Seth MacFarlane from Family Guy, American Dad, and The Cleveland Show, as well as many movies. Over the last two decades, we have become very familiar with his form of comedy and style, and The Orville has proven to be another gem in his comedy arsenal.

For the most part, The Orville can be seen as a parody of Star Trek. It is about a crew of various races on a spaceship helping to protect the galaxy. The show begins with Captain Ed Mercer, played by Seth MacFarlane, finding out his wife, Kelly Grayson, played by Adrianne Palicki, has been cheating on him. Captain Mercer goes through a phase of depression as the two meet, and the show fast forwards to him being offered the job of Captain of The Orville, where his now ex-wife will be his second in command.

Going into it, I had a worry the show would just be goofy and silly. However, while the comedy is very present and keeps me entertained, it is done in a way that does not make you feel like you are watching a parody at all. In fact, had there never been shows like Star Trek, I believe this would still be a very entertaining show on its own.

What I Liked

I enjoy that, while this show parodies Star Trek in many ways, it is also its own entity. The story is about the people involved and their more personal lives with a smattering of missions and action thrown in. Obviously, Captain Mercer is not happy having to work with his ex-wife and struggles to keep things professional.

The comedy in the show is funny yet not so over-the-top that you feel like they are making fun of one of your all-time favorite shows. There is an awesome balance between comedy, action, drama, and making the show their own thing. I can’t wait to see what direction they go in, as there have only been three episodes released.

What I Didn’t Like

There is very little for me to complain about. I went into this show with certain expectations, and it has not disappointed. I would say if you are a true fan of Star Trek and get offended by parodies, this may not be the show for you.

For me, my biggest complaint is hearing Seth MacFarlane talk. If I look away and hear his character talk, my mind is reminded of the character he has in Family Guy, Brian, and it throws me off for a bit. Other than that, there isn't much I haven't enjoyed with the show.

My Overall

Overall, I love it! I am looking forward to finishing out the season and hoping it will be renewed for further seasons. Growing up watching Star Trek and other sci-fi shows had given me an appreciation for this sort of television. It is something I can watch with other geeky members of my family, and we all have a great time. Though, I would say it is not suitable for younger members of your family. I give it a 9/10.

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