The Orville, Season One Review.

When Star Trek Discovery first aired last September, Seth MacFarlane released his own Star Trek inspired TV show called The Orville. It’s no mistake, that I’m only now watching this show so long after Discovery has finished. Why? Well, it became very apparent to me that some fans who refused to acknowledge Discovery as real Star Trek, began to use this show as an example of Gene Roddenberry’s original vision. I don’t want to be comparing this show to Discovery. And, to be honest, It wouldn’t be fair to each show. Instead, I preferred to let the dust settle, before I gave it my full attention. Anyway, here are my thoughts about The Orville. 

You don’t have to be Sherlock Holmes, to know Seth MacFarlane is a huge fan of Star Trek. You only have to watch a couple of episodes of Family Guy and American Dad to find that out. Also, if I found myself in a situation where I had the chance to make a Star Trek inspired television show, I would jump at the chance as well. I suppose the show is meant to be funny, but I think I only managed a bit of a mild smile during the first season. However, there is something entertaining about this show. The Orville has created a wonderful cast of characters, each with their own unique flaws, creating a memorable crew . My favourite character from the show is Issac. Issac represents a lot of characteristics we see from Data from the Star Trek in The Next Generation, but I would say his view on man-kind is far more accurate than Data could ever achieve. and that’s why I find him interesting. The design and aesthetic of the show is impressive. I can now understand why someone who didn’t enjoy Discovery, would find some value in this show. The Orville feels like Star Trek, and it must give them some comfort and familiarity, that they don’t want to lose. I can respect that. 

There are some interesting story-lines in the show. Scenarios that make me question our humanity, and the society we live in. There is an episode called Majority Rules, which I found fascinating. I believe this represented our fascination with social media. Alternatively, I found out that some episodes lacked any emotion, or entertainment. The Krill is an episode I felt lacked any real substance. One minute there is comedic tones, and in the next scene a handful of aliens are brutally murdered. I suppose it is going to be difficult for a show to successfully merge both genres.  However, I will welcome season two with open arms. I think they will need to make some vast improvements, if they ever want to see season three, but I wish them all the luck in the world. Science fiction can be a serious subject, but it’s also important to have some fun with the genre every once in a while.

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