The Orville

:

Season 1
  • Network: FOX , HULU
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 10, 2017
Season #: 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 1016 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 877 out of 1016
  2. Mixed: 46 out of 1016
  3. Negative: 93 out of 1016
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  1. pchernik
    Oct 10, 2017
    10
    This once again proves to me that critics are either idiots or only rate positively once they are paid off and that I should not look for shows to watch based on their reviews, and instead look at "user reviews". This show is totally opposite of "Star Trek Discovery" in that respect. It's funny and it's enjoyable. If I can't have a good serious sci-fi show I'd much rather have this. If youThis once again proves to me that critics are either idiots or only rate positively once they are paid off and that I should not look for shows to watch based on their reviews, and instead look at "user reviews". This show is totally opposite of "Star Trek Discovery" in that respect. It's funny and it's enjoyable. If I can't have a good serious sci-fi show I'd much rather have this. If you are looking for a space adventure to watch, and can't stand the Discovery garbage, look no further!… Expand
  2. auriStar
    Sep 10, 2017
    9
    From my impressions of the first episode, and the previews of episodes to come, I'm seeing a fairly bright future in this. And it's a shame, really, to see the critical misunderstanding most reviewers have had about the show. This is *not* a straight comedy show. It is, at its core, a spiritual successor to Star Trek, while at the same time poking fun at the series, as well as sci fi inFrom my impressions of the first episode, and the previews of episodes to come, I'm seeing a fairly bright future in this. And it's a shame, really, to see the critical misunderstanding most reviewers have had about the show. This is *not* a straight comedy show. It is, at its core, a spiritual successor to Star Trek, while at the same time poking fun at the series, as well as sci fi in general. Many critics seem to be complaining that the show was not consistently funny. This would be a fair complaint if the show had many jokes, most of which fell flat. However, the fact is that the show has a handfull of jokes sprinkled throughout the episode, most of which are chuckle-worthy throwaway lines, and character-building moments.

    However, misunderstandings don't warrant a 9/10 on metacritic. What is actually worth watching about this show?

    The Characters:
    Each character presented in this is fairly well defined and has remarkably interesting synergy with each other. The writing is snappy enough to be interesting while distinct between characters as to not seem as if it's grasping for quotable lines. While the writing is nowhere near on-par with the likes of Xavier, it helps carry the story along fairly nicely, and retains that genuine charm which Star Trek performed so distinctly and prominently in its formative years.

    The Production:
    The show, simply put, looks like Star Trek. It is clear that the editors and effects artists put great thought into making it look authentically like a Star Trek show. Everything from the shots to the lighting evokes the classic style of Star Trek to a tee (though perhaps more DS9 than TNG). While by no means do visuals save or doom a show, the effort put into the aesthetics of the show demonstrate the care which went into it. This work is all in service of portraying a familiar, yet distinct and genuine science fiction world, with meshes of old and new imagery.

    The Plot:
    Though little has been shown as to the overarching narrative, and whether or not the show is serialized, episodic, or a mix of the two, the pacing and content of the plot in this show is strangely compelling. You'd think from what is ostensibly a parody show that the writing plays the whole thing fairly loosey goosey, but in practice, the narrative actually has some stakes. The characters are likeable enough as to where you want to see them make it through to the end, and it is made clear from the offset that characters can and will die if something goes wrong. The only issue I found in the story was that the enemy alien race, The Krill (?), seemed a bit too grunt-y to be considered an actual threat. They're quickly dispatched by the main cast, which is by no means filled with combatants. However, given the glimpses we've seen of the future episodes, this is by no means the biggest threat planned for the cast.

    Overall, I'd say the show is enjoyable so far. I may amend the score in future if the quality declines. However, in a time where we haven't seen anything really interesting come of Star Trek in decades, seeing something like this which tastefully and respectfully evokes the charm of the old show is, perplexingly, a breath of fresh air. Definitely give it a go for yourself.    … Expand
  3. Fiestykitten
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    This show is bright, optimistic and a real breath of fresh air in a genre that has gone dark, serious and gritty - whether we wanted it to or not. If it cuts back on the forced gags, let's the humour flow more naturally and concentrates on sci-fi, it could become a real gem. Good luck Seth. I applaud the vision and critics be damned.
  4. rokweiller
    Sep 11, 2017
    10
    This show did its intended job ... it was funny & entertaining. The cast, set, and story line were spot on. The "pro critics" should either get new jobs or stop reviewing shows of the genre. Generally speaking, pro critics know nothing about entertainment. Fire them all.
  5. cellophanity
    Sep 10, 2017
    10
    I find the critic reviews unfair and based on FOX making it seem like a spoof parody that was gonna be hilarious satire and nothing more. This is a light hearted sci-fi comedy drama reminiscent of Star Trek TNG, with comedic moments but actual storylines and plots and character development. This is the Trek show that is not a Trek show but more like the Trek show a lot of us wanted to seeI find the critic reviews unfair and based on FOX making it seem like a spoof parody that was gonna be hilarious satire and nothing more. This is a light hearted sci-fi comedy drama reminiscent of Star Trek TNG, with comedic moments but actual storylines and plots and character development. This is the Trek show that is not a Trek show but more like the Trek show a lot of us wanted to see than the one we will actually get later this month. If you miss the positive hopeful Trek of the 90's and wish it would come back, bad news... its not going to.. ever. The good news is that you will love this show! The Orville is the show for you!… Expand
  6. guilly
    Sep 11, 2017
    10
    Absolutely loved it. Just another example of the disconnect between critics and audiences. These days it seems like unless you have a gritty, serious 10 episode cable/streaming style character driven drama the critics take a dump on it. I love sci-fi, and I love shows that make me laugh and don't take themselves too seriously. The first episode checks all the boxes, will update if it goesAbsolutely loved it. Just another example of the disconnect between critics and audiences. These days it seems like unless you have a gritty, serious 10 episode cable/streaming style character driven drama the critics take a dump on it. I love sci-fi, and I love shows that make me laugh and don't take themselves too seriously. The first episode checks all the boxes, will update if it goes downhill.… Expand
  7. Shermos
    Sep 24, 2017
    9
    I have only seen the first episode. I will edit this review upon completion of the season. No spoilers.

    Ignore the critics. If you miss old school Star Trek and are sick of dark sci-fi, you will likely enjoy Orville. It is very clearly a love letter to the kind of Star Trek which came out before 2009. The show is trying to be a bit like Mash with a very healthy dose of Star Trek    I have only seen the first episode. I will edit this review upon completion of the season. No spoilers.

    Ignore the critics. If you miss old school Star Trek and are sick of dark sci-fi, you will likely enjoy Orville. It is very clearly a love letter to the kind of Star Trek which came out before 2009.

    The show is trying to be a bit like Mash with a very healthy dose of Star Trek thrown in. It's a comedy which also deals with serious subjects from time to time. Most of the characters (especially the aliens) are interesting and I look forward to learning more about them and their backstories as the show progresses.

    The show is also interesting because it's not showcasing the best and brightest humanity has to offer. The Orville is a mid level ship and the crew is not perfect, just doing the best they can with what they have.

    I expect upon completion of the season, my rating will go up.    … Expand
  8. ArchangelXv1
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    I think it's obvious that there's a disconnect between Critics and the target audience. It's why I have stopped even caring what they think.

    I really enjoyed this first episode. It felt real, unlike how Star Trek comes across sometimes . I mean there are times during serious situations where you just have to make a joke to relieve the tension. This is exactly how this show felt.    I think it's obvious that there's a disconnect between Critics and the target audience. It's why I have stopped even caring what they think.

    I really enjoyed this first episode. It felt real, unlike how Star Trek comes across sometimes . I mean there are times during serious situations where you just have to make a joke to relieve the tension. This is exactly how this show felt.

    Special effects were pretty good and the characters were believable and you could tell they had a good rapport. The alien designs are also very good. I love that blob in the hallway. And the Ogre? The actors already have great chemistry (especially the helmsman and navigator) and the dynamic Ed and his wife is hilarious and yet heartfelt at the end. I'm very pleased and look forward to the coming season.    … Expand
  9. Ripandread
    Oct 12, 2017
    8
    The special effects were great ! The story lines are getting better each week. One has to appreciate Seth McFarlane's sense of humor in order to enjoy this program.
  10. Jarek23
    Sep 11, 2017
    8
    I really hope this show is successful, it made me feel like a kid again, like I was watching TNG in my parents living room. I miss this feeling. The critics had me worried for a second, but only for a second. Once I started watching I felt that I was going to like it, and by the end I really did like it. It's not amazing, no, but it's very fun. I like the cast well enough, the crew wellI really hope this show is successful, it made me feel like a kid again, like I was watching TNG in my parents living room. I miss this feeling. The critics had me worried for a second, but only for a second. Once I started watching I felt that I was going to like it, and by the end I really did like it. It's not amazing, no, but it's very fun. I like the cast well enough, the crew well enough, the visuals, the music, everything felt like it fit together and meshed really well. Here's hoping it maintains it's course.… Expand
  11. Snookrc
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    I really enjoyed The Orville. I was worried it was going to be non-stop puns and one-liners, I enjoy that in cartoons, but find it hard to watch actors do it non-stop. The Orville actually tries to be a space exploration TV show with some humor thrown in.
  12. grampp1
    Sep 11, 2017
    8
    The Orville wasn't exactly what I expected from a Seth MacFarlane project, but it was nonetheless fun and enjoyable. I think if you approach the show expecting it to be the slap-stick, edgy comedy from beginning to end, you might be disappointed... although, there were several funny bits with the Seth MacFarlane-esque delivery. If you approach it as any other premiere, and you appreciateThe Orville wasn't exactly what I expected from a Seth MacFarlane project, but it was nonetheless fun and enjoyable. I think if you approach the show expecting it to be the slap-stick, edgy comedy from beginning to end, you might be disappointed... although, there were several funny bits with the Seth MacFarlane-esque delivery. If you approach it as any other premiere, and you appreciate some amount of sci-fi, I think it's enjoyable. Not sure just yet whether it has strong "staying-power", but I do hope that Fox gives it the chance to develop before pulling any plugs. Imagine the Orville crew comparing themselves to the crew of the more elite or renowned Enterprise, or implying that they are getting some of the glory that the Orville deserves. i think some of that material could be endless... and quite funny!!I Anyhow, I think it's a bit obvious that the user/viewer reviews are far more telling (and encouraging) than the critic reviews. ... isn't that sort of what happened with "The Family Guy"? ... Critics hated it, viewers loved it and petitioned for it to come back and now it's about to start it's 16th season! I don't think this was the strongest showing for the premiere, but I'm open-minded that it might have some endurance as it develops further.… Expand
  13. zebedee104
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    An enjoyable first episode, that is very reminiscent of Star Trek: The Next Generation and it's bright, shiny view of the future. The cast is rounded out and there aren't any duff notes there.

    I'd agree with those saying that Fox has pitched the programme wrong by making it out to be a Sitcom - it's not, it's a drama with some comedy (which isn't always very successful and fails to hit    An enjoyable first episode, that is very reminiscent of Star Trek: The Next Generation and it's bright, shiny view of the future. The cast is rounded out and there aren't any duff notes there.

    I'd agree with those saying that Fox has pitched the programme wrong by making it out to be a Sitcom - it's not, it's a drama with some comedy (which isn't always very successful and fails to hit the mark) and it's certainly looking a lot more Star Trek-like than Discovery seems like it's going to be.

    I'm hoping that we get more than the first batch of episodes and that it doesn't end up facing the cancellation bear so early, always the risk if viewers side with the critics and decide not to watch based on their opinions.    … Expand
  14. XelaNreddam
    Sep 11, 2017
    10
    Absolueteky loved the show. A true homage to Next Generation from an obvious Star Trek fan boy. The characters, set design, titles, music, camera work, everything had influences and nostalgic references. All brought up to date with first class effects. It was blended with McFarlane's college humour very well, a little juvenile but not crass or childish. I doubt it will appeal to everyoneAbsolueteky loved the show. A true homage to Next Generation from an obvious Star Trek fan boy. The characters, set design, titles, music, camera work, everything had influences and nostalgic references. All brought up to date with first class effects. It was blended with McFarlane's college humour very well, a little juvenile but not crass or childish. I doubt it will appeal to everyone but I know one very happy family eager for much more of this.… Expand
  15. Donnazen1
    Sep 11, 2017
    10
    I loved it! I thought it was well done and so fresh. Actually, it was pretty cool. I needed to get my outer space on. i have watched Babylon 5 - 3 times in the past year and am now watching all 79 of the Star Treks again, plus the original first pilot just came today (in VHS) The Cage, I just ordered Deep Space 9. I am looking forward to hopefully years and years of - The Orville. ThankI loved it! I thought it was well done and so fresh. Actually, it was pretty cool. I needed to get my outer space on. i have watched Babylon 5 - 3 times in the past year and am now watching all 79 of the Star Treks again, plus the original first pilot just came today (in VHS) The Cage, I just ordered Deep Space 9. I am looking forward to hopefully years and years of - The Orville. Thank goodness I recorded it so I can sit down tonight and watch it again!… Expand
  16. elsrtomato
    Sep 11, 2017
    10
    The show is fun, optimistic, and it has the potential to become great sci-fi. Most critics claim it's a Star Trek ripoff, and while it certainly has many TNG elements, it's casual dialogues and character interactions reminded me of Stargate SG1. I hope it goes on, as with just one episode you can tell it's going to get great.
  17. Landee
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    The critics seem too be biased... I found the show to be a good mix of drama and comedy with it leaning more towards drama. It is definitely inspired by star trek and does it justice. I really enjoyed the way they handled the science with a pretty good attention to detail. There were only a few things I noticed that were used that seemed a little far fetched or didn't make sense. Over allThe critics seem too be biased... I found the show to be a good mix of drama and comedy with it leaning more towards drama. It is definitely inspired by star trek and does it justice. I really enjoyed the way they handled the science with a pretty good attention to detail. There were only a few things I noticed that were used that seemed a little far fetched or didn't make sense. Over all I really enjoyed the show!… Expand
  18. benengland
    Sep 11, 2017
    9
    Thie first episode was superb - my family and I loved it. We will watch every episode guaranteed. Thanks so much to everyone involved in making it - I've missed this style of show SO much since Star Trek went off the air.
  19. Hugshug
    Sep 11, 2017
    8
    A Science Fiction/Comedy. Light on the Comedy, light on the Science, but good never the less. Make up your own mind, watch it and decide for yourself.
  20. ToolPackinMama
    Sep 11, 2017
    10
    I am one of the original Trekkies. I have been a faithful fan of Star Trek since the 1960's. I also enjoy Star Wars. I also enjoyed Galaxy Quest. I like Sci Fi. I like humor. I loved Ep 1 of The Orville and am ready for more of the same. Beautiful looking show that is genuinely entertaining.
  21. Chris_T_Hill
    Sep 12, 2017
    10
    Honestly I’m baffled by the harsh reviews from critics the Orville is great!

    What I will agree with the critics, is the Orville isn’t Galaxy Quest, it’s not a laugh out loud, laugh a minute silly comedy; to my surprise, it’s very, much Star Trek: The Next Generation, with a bit of light relief. This is the Star Trek show I’ve long been waiting for.
  22. jc203
    Sep 11, 2017
    0
    Tough to understand how anyone could rate this show favorably! The humor is not humorous, the adventure is not adventurous, the story line is just plain dumb, and the acting is at the level of a junior high school production. The special effects are the best part. That probably explains why so much of the footage features exterior views of the Orville gliding through space. Overall, aTough to understand how anyone could rate this show favorably! The humor is not humorous, the adventure is not adventurous, the story line is just plain dumb, and the acting is at the level of a junior high school production. The special effects are the best part. That probably explains why so much of the footage features exterior views of the Orville gliding through space. Overall, a colossal waste of money...… Expand
  23. FabiusPolis
    Mar 21, 2019
    5
    There are nice ideas, but most of the plots are identical with episodes from Star Trek TNG. The jokes are slippery but beyond as funny as in "Married... with Children" and is more disturbing than entertaining. The stories suffer from the shows uncertainty if its a real sci-fi or just a Star Trek (fandom) parody. The lack of creativity (the Borg, the Klingons...all appear in one form) makesThere are nice ideas, but most of the plots are identical with episodes from Star Trek TNG. The jokes are slippery but beyond as funny as in "Married... with Children" and is more disturbing than entertaining. The stories suffer from the shows uncertainty if its a real sci-fi or just a Star Trek (fandom) parody. The lack of creativity (the Borg, the Klingons...all appear in one form) makes it worse. Average show, worth to watch episode once, but never twice or more.… Expand
  24. Rakshall
    Feb 16, 2019
    3
    Has potential ... but unfortunately its completely destroyed by frequent unfunny and embarrassing toilet-level "gags". They have no real purpose other than shatter any viewer immersion in the world. Its really hard to watch. Its a shame because under this cesspool there is occasional good and deeper story, but one has to be really immune to poor "humor" to see it.
  25. frankthetank420
    Jan 28, 2019
    10
    Don't listen to the bought and paid critics, fans from all around love this show. It really pays homage to classic Trek, and any TNG fans out there will definitely enjoy this. I'm tired of critics trying to steer us away from great work based on their politics, we know STD sucks but thats no reason to give this a poor review. This show is fantastic and doesn't take itself too seriously,Don't listen to the bought and paid critics, fans from all around love this show. It really pays homage to classic Trek, and any TNG fans out there will definitely enjoy this. I'm tired of critics trying to steer us away from great work based on their politics, we know STD sucks but thats no reason to give this a poor review. This show is fantastic and doesn't take itself too seriously, give it a shot!… Expand
  26. BronzeCentipede
    Jan 20, 2018
    10
    Intelligent SF with likeable characters, and lacking the mean-spiritedness of so much modern science-fiction. It is also, incidentally, the closest things we've had to Star Trek in decades. Some of the jokes are laugh out loud, many of them are just irritating. But it is as thoughtful drama that The Orville truly shines, without ever getting preachy.
  27. Robobob
    Oct 8, 2017
    9
    Did you love Star Trek: The Next Generation but were always kind of bugged that the crew never mentioned pop culture in film or TV? Did it annoy you that everyone on the Enterprise D was perfect at their job and almost always followed the rules? Did you find it a little stuffy will only a few mild attempts at humor? Well, then you will really love The Orville. This is the kind of crewDid you love Star Trek: The Next Generation but were always kind of bugged that the crew never mentioned pop culture in film or TV? Did it annoy you that everyone on the Enterprise D was perfect at their job and almost always followed the rules? Did you find it a little stuffy will only a few mild attempts at humor? Well, then you will really love The Orville. This is the kind of crew that pops in a classic episode of Seinfeld on the view screen during some down time. This is the crew most likely to get themselves blown up in the first few episodes. They are also the most likely to curse at the bad guy on screen and flip him the bird. Add on top of that the most "Trek" themed episodes seen in a sci-fi show since the glory Trek-days of the 90s. I'm waiting for the day that a member of the crew specially mentions that ancient show "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and notes the similarity in their mission. This show is so good but I'm certain as it goes on and finds it niche that it is headed for greatness.… Expand
  28. PrimeSpeaker
    Oct 8, 2017
    9
    If you love star trek tng then give this one a shot. It's very similar in terms of tone with a little more direct comedy while keeping the heart, The visuals are gorgeous and the it has just been fun overall.
  29. SirIsaacBrock
    Oct 7, 2017
    10
    WTF critics, is your only job to crap on anything that doesn't end mid sentence or have sex scenes mixed with dragons?

    Seth MacFarlane created another great show to brighten up our little world and keep us entertained an hour at a time. From the thought provoking story of episode 3 to the little accents such as Kermit the Frog being on his desk, Seth and his team has worked tirelessly    WTF critics, is your only job to crap on anything that doesn't end mid sentence or have sex scenes mixed with dragons?

    Seth MacFarlane created another great show to brighten up our little world and keep us entertained an hour at a time. From the thought provoking story of episode 3 to the little accents such as Kermit the Frog being on his desk, Seth and his team has worked tirelessly to ensure that we are kept enthralled from beginning to end with pop culture references and characters I'd like to have a beer with.

    This show may not have awesome graphics but it sure as Hell makes up for it with heart. I hope this is the beginning of a fantastic lighthearted voyage that puts all those critics that can't help hating dreamers in their places.

    Bravo Mr. MacFarlane and team, keep up the good work!    … Expand
  30. Vince_Vega
    Oct 9, 2017
    10
    The Orville starts with a weak and becomes one of the strongest "Ship and Crew" shows we had in a long time.
    Personally I think the first episode doesn't do the show justice. While it is solid in it's second half, the very first impression we get of this show can leave a negative impression. it's too busy trying to explain and setup everything, while squeezing in the jokes. This flow    The Orville starts with a weak and becomes one of the strongest "Ship and Crew" shows we had in a long time.
    Personally I think the first episode doesn't do the show justice. While it is solid in it's second half, the very first impression we get of this show can leave a negative impression. it's too busy trying to explain and setup everything, while squeezing in the jokes. This flow starts to become more organic in the following episodes.
    This show delivers a high concept Sci-Fi (highlight Ep.3 here!) while delivering the comic relief other shows were missing. The bridge crew feels like people, relatable normal people working together in an office. Halfway through it's first season The Orville demonstrates great Sci-Fi story lines combined with an established chemistry of the cast.

    This is the Ship and Crew Sci-Fi adventure show that many of us have been waiting for for a long time.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Most Discussed TV Season of 2017
47
#47 Most Shared TV Season of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
36

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 21
  3. Negative: 10 out of 21
  1. New York Post
    Reviewed by: Michael Starr
    Sep 21, 2017
    50
    It’s got top-notch special effects and terrific makeup (for its space-alien characters). But it just doesn’t quite gel. At least not yet, anyway.
    Read full review
  2. TV Guide Magazine
    Reviewed by: Matt Roush
    Sep 14, 2017
    50
    The show's smirky tone, embodied in MacFarlane's smug frat-boy demeanor as the captain, never quite gels with the universal humanism the episode is aiming for. [18 Sep - 1 Oct 2017, p.27]
  3. Yahoo TV
    Reviewed by: Ken Tucker
    Sep 11, 2017
    30
    Except for Norm Macdonald as the voice of an alien made of what looked like quivering gelatin, I didn’t find much that was amusing about The Orville’s space odyssey. ... From its opening scene with Victor Garber assigning Ed his ship to the final, unsuspenseful shootout with alien enemies, The Orville moved from one lull to another.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »