FX's subversive animated comedy Archer returns tonight and not a moment too soon, for television needs the gonzo spirit and out-there humor of this Adam Reed creation.The first seven episodes of Season Two of Archer, provided to press for review, might be the strongest to date, offering up a virtual cornucopia of sight gags, double entendre, shockingly foul language, superspy hijinks, and one of the worst examples of humanity in HR executive Pam Poovey.
To say that these memorable characters are flawed is an understatement of the highest order; they're so morally corrupt, so self-absorbed and tragically insane, that it makes for obsessive and unpredictable viewing. And that's perhaps the beauty and magic of Archer: in creating a cast of characters who are so reprehensible in every way, it's impossible to turn your eyes away from the carnage--both physical and personal--that follows in their wake.
Along the way, Sterling Malory Archer and his covert cohorts at ISIS are tasked with protecting a slew of important VIPs: from a slutty, seemingly nymphomaniac teenager in the season opener "Swiss Miss" to a Chihuahua-toting actress in "Movie Star," while a pipeline, a blood sample, the wee Baby Seamus, Cyril's sex addiction, Pam's thirst for gossip, Mallory's Hollywood dreams, and Lana's low self-esteem all play right into the various plots unfolding his season.
Building on the strength of the first season, creator Adam Reed deepens the characters here, giving screen time to supporting characters like Krieger and Ray Gillette and broadening the world of ISIS exponentially. Familiar faces (voices?) make their return appearance here, as well, giving some sense of continuity and serialization to the adventures of Sterling Archer and Co., even as the throwaway lines and dirty jokes leave you gasping for air on the ground. (Hmmm, flashbacks to Judy Greer's Cheryl here.)
The result is a gleefully psychotic comedy, and I mean that in the very best possible sense. Archer is a touchstone for the sort of subversive humor and no-limits comedy that FX embraces and I'm glad to see that a break between seasons hasn't dented the delightfully twisted psyche of this unique series.
With spies like these, who needs national enemies?
Season Two of Archer premieres tonight at 10 pm ET/PT on FX.
Comments