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. u182506
    Dec 22, 2017
    10
    I really wasn't sure I would, but I totally enjoyed this show. I've been a closet Trekkie since I was like 10 and loved it because it showed a future you could be optimistic about. I was really excited about Discovery, but for me, it just kinda just sucked (at least so far). The Orville is MY sort of Star Trek. With cheesy Dad jokes a massive bonus. Bring on season 2!
  2. Dubeau
    Oct 6, 2017
    8
    Orville is a good show that pay homage to Star Trek and some real classic sci-fi episodes that aired on TV. It isn't your sci-fi flick that puts you in a dark political place, like Galactica or Discovery. Instead you get some nice classical stories branded in a more modern style. Even the music pays homage to classic pieces with variations on themes. Yes, the actors or the humour is notOrville is a good show that pay homage to Star Trek and some real classic sci-fi episodes that aired on TV. It isn't your sci-fi flick that puts you in a dark political place, like Galactica or Discovery. Instead you get some nice classical stories branded in a more modern style. Even the music pays homage to classic pieces with variations on themes. Yes, the actors or the humour is not always good...but overall you still get entertainment. Orville was made for fan of classic scifi and should be appreciated has such. I give it a 75%. Note: Don't give in to the critics that want to bash on McFarland and give the show a fair chance of seducing you by it's light tone and respect to old fiction.… Expand
  3. Spydar71
    Sep 15, 2017
    8
    I am a huge ST fan and I loved this. These critics are nuts and I think they wrote their opinions expecting the public would hate it and now they look the fool. The graphics for the show may not have been top notch, but what season 1 of any sci fi series had high funding? It was good enough and should the show continue to get the responses from viewers I am seeing, will get better inI am a huge ST fan and I loved this. These critics are nuts and I think they wrote their opinions expecting the public would hate it and now they look the fool. The graphics for the show may not have been top notch, but what season 1 of any sci fi series had high funding? It was good enough and should the show continue to get the responses from viewers I am seeing, will get better in season 2. I gave it an 8 for this first ep, only because I felt that there needs to be a little work on timing of jokes and finding that perfect balance between comedy and drama that they are going for. I think that given time the show will find its footing and has the potential to be a great show with a 7 year run. Unless of course FOX gives it their usual sci-fi treatment. Just ask Joss Whedon. Anywho, I am looking forward to watching more of this season and I'm fully expecting to see improvements in writing and timing as the crew learns to work together.
    Also, I was excited to see the actress that played Cassidy Yates on DS9 as a main character (Med officer). I hope they get as few more ST alums on there to play parody roles. Would be great to see Patrick Steward play a funny character or a washed up captain to contrast his ST role. I'm sure he would do it.    … Expand
  4. BeLT789
    Sep 18, 2017
    8
    I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the first two episodes that aired so far, given that I consider myself a trekkie and do not consider myself a Seth MacFarlane fan. Star Trek is great, but it takes itself too seriously too often. The Orville so far is a refreshing change of a space sci-fi series that will never be accused of being heavy on drama, yet remains story-driven withI was surprised at how much I enjoyed the first two episodes that aired so far, given that I consider myself a trekkie and do not consider myself a Seth MacFarlane fan. Star Trek is great, but it takes itself too seriously too often. The Orville so far is a refreshing change of a space sci-fi series that will never be accused of being heavy on drama, yet remains story-driven with interesting and likable characters. And it made me laugh! So I'm an early fan.… Expand
  5. kpociecha
    Nov 28, 2017
    10
    First episode was disappointing but the show is getting better and better and after episode 7 I can say WOoooW Orville is a great star trek like show.
  6. neverthehero
    Oct 4, 2017
    8
    This show is entertaining and funny. Seth MacFarlane stars as Ed Mercer, an officer in the Planetary Union's line of exploratory space cruisers who is given the Orville as his first command, only to discover that his ex-wife, Kelly Grayson (Adrianne Palicki), has been assigned to be his First Officer. The two seem to be a good fit for the show as well as the others who are cast. WhileThis show is entertaining and funny. Seth MacFarlane stars as Ed Mercer, an officer in the Planetary Union's line of exploratory space cruisers who is given the Orville as his first command, only to discover that his ex-wife, Kelly Grayson (Adrianne Palicki), has been assigned to be his First Officer. The two seem to be a good fit for the show as well as the others who are cast. While the writing is good, there is room for improvement for comedy but I suspect this will happen if the show is picked up for another season. I have to say, this is a very entertaining show and would recommend it to anyone who is or isn't a fan of the Star Trek series.… Expand
  7. teebizzoo
    Oct 6, 2017
    10
    I have never written a review here before, but given the reactions of the critics, I felt I had to now. I had low expectations of "The Orville." I had feared a kind of low-level humor would prevail, with very little attention to the heart and soul that most shows set in a Star Trek universe possess. Fortunately, I was wrong. I love this show. The characters are lovable, and the humor isI have never written a review here before, but given the reactions of the critics, I felt I had to now. I had low expectations of "The Orville." I had feared a kind of low-level humor would prevail, with very little attention to the heart and soul that most shows set in a Star Trek universe possess. Fortunately, I was wrong. I love this show. The characters are lovable, and the humor is well-balanced with the story lines. The humor also is a terrific balance of the expected and unexpected, and the writers honor both the spirit of the original Star Trek and all of the spoof humor that has been inspired by it. It has just the right combination of reverence and irreverence. I don't know what the critics want from this show, but whatever it is they've got it all wrong. They're either misunderstanding what this show is supposed to be, or they never liked shows like Star Trek in the first place. I think The Orville is charming, entertaining, engaging, and well-written. Even more than that, it's lighthearted and fun, something we all need more of right now. I hope it's on for years to come.… Expand
  8. Madix
    Oct 18, 2017
    10
    If you were a fan of classic Star Trek (especially TNG) you'll see the value in this show. The humor is stupid sometimes but it doesn't detract from the story or philosophical elements. There are lots of complaints about the cheesiness but any fan of Star Trek will be used to that, just get over it and try to enjoy the story for what it is.

    Fart jokes aside, there's more substance to    If you were a fan of classic Star Trek (especially TNG) you'll see the value in this show. The humor is stupid sometimes but it doesn't detract from the story or philosophical elements. There are lots of complaints about the cheesiness but any fan of Star Trek will be used to that, just get over it and try to enjoy the story for what it is.

    Fart jokes aside, there's more substance to the story than there is for the more critically acclaimed shows. It just goes to show you, superficial quality and drama is more important to critics than substance. I mean, what's the point of perfect character interactions if the story doesn't go anywhere? The Orville doesn't care about the drama and it doesn't care what the pretentious critics think of it. It just wants to tell us stories, many of which with philosophical undertones similar to those that made Star Trek great.    … Expand
  9. Criteon296
    Nov 4, 2017
    4
    I've seen 5 episodes.... I'm ready to turn the TV off. It's mix of humor and serious social issues has been beaten to death. The inference that is a "star trek" clone is just plain wrong. Seth MacFarlane should stick to cartoons. On top of that, one season and out. That's about all you can take of this dribble. I would also point out that the whole Outer Space Genre is finally finding anI've seen 5 episodes.... I'm ready to turn the TV off. It's mix of humor and serious social issues has been beaten to death. The inference that is a "star trek" clone is just plain wrong. Seth MacFarlane should stick to cartoons. On top of that, one season and out. That's about all you can take of this dribble. I would also point out that the whole Outer Space Genre is finally finding an end game. More shows that really contribute to social awareness without poking fun at really serious matters should be an alternative. American Television is boring now. Every network has way to much "comic book" theatrics. Come on people, get real.… Expand
  10. fredwrogers
    Nov 25, 2017
    10
    I introduced the kid to Star Trek over the summer, so watching The Orville seemed a good idea. We are both really enjoying it. If we have an episode of Discovery and Orville on the PVR, we'll usually watch The Orville first.
  11. wbcas
    Dec 19, 2017
    8
    I understand the confusion expressed by critics about The Orville, in which the humor sometimes seems forced and disconnected from the drama. And wasn't this supposed to be a comedy, a parody? But no, the show is a straight-up homage to Star Trek, with a few jokes, not a rip-off of that seminal science fiction show, as some critics think. The second episode was a direct tribute to theI understand the confusion expressed by critics about The Orville, in which the humor sometimes seems forced and disconnected from the drama. And wasn't this supposed to be a comedy, a parody? But no, the show is a straight-up homage to Star Trek, with a few jokes, not a rip-off of that seminal science fiction show, as some critics think. The second episode was a direct tribute to the original Star Trek pilot, "The Cage," from 1965, in which Captain Pike (the proto-Kirk) winds up in an alien menagerie. I initially cringed at the premise of The Orville's pilot — man is forced to captain starship with his ex-wife as first officer — but the show quickly moved beyond divorce jokes. The humor became less jarring and more subtle as the season evolved (and I suspect you either like Seth MacFarlane's humor or you don't, at all). What's more, the characters actually seem to like and respect each other (despite some terrible practical jokes), a rarity in contemporary TV drama. Even the stock villains of the series, the hyper-aggressive Krill, are shown to have more than one dimension. And in the finest Star Trek tradition, The Orville addresses topical issues by giving them a SciFi veneer (my favorite in that line, the episode where the Orville encounters a world much like ours ruled via something like Facebook). The Orville isn't dark (except for a few moments). It isn't edgy, nor is it campy a là "Galaxy Quest." Most important, The Orville isn't "Star Trek Discovery," which is what its fans may like most about it. And to the dismay of TV critics (and don't imagine Star Trek was universally acclaimed by critics in the 1960s), it's coming back for a second season. Enjoy.… Expand
  12. Boreas
    Sep 29, 2017
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I just watched episode 4 and the show is starting to hit it's stride, it feels so much like TNG but also has elements of the original Star Trek. In particular episode 4 bares more the a passing relationship with 'For the World Is Hollow and I Have Touched the Sky' TOS S03E08. It also nods to Asimov's 'Nightfall'.

    The blend of humour and drama still feels uneven, to be honest at times I just wished they'd drop the joke and play it straight.

    The show isn't perfect and still has some rough edges but if it's given time it will grow into something really good.    … Expand
  13. TwiTu
    Sep 29, 2017
    10
    I didnt know what to expect. I read some peoples opinion that this is more Star Trek than Discovery will ever be, but I had my doubts, because I fell for mainstream critics, whose completely biased and even more false "reviews" you can see here. I was actually hooked from the first episode.

    As I said, I had my doubts, I thought it would be a full blown parody of Star Trek, which I    I didnt know what to expect. I read some peoples opinion that this is more Star Trek than Discovery will ever be, but I had my doubts, because I fell for mainstream critics, whose completely biased and even more false "reviews" you can see here. I was actually hooked from the first episode.

    As I said, I had my doubts, I thought it would be a full blown parody of Star Trek, which I wouldnt have cared for much, but its far far FAR from that.
    What would best describe it? Star Trek. But massively expanded on its humor. But no parody at all. Maybe here and there a few puns, but nothing that would make the show look ridiculous. It actually has very serious topics in its episodes, which bring tears to my eyes due to laughter (seriously, some of the best jokes and situational comedy I have ever seen) and due to being such a contrast to the propaganda that is Discovery and blowing it out of Star Trek waters, which is ultimately why it gets a 10 and not a 9 from me.

    You love every single character instantly. Yes, every single one of them. They are original, they are diverse, they are good actors, they all fit together well, the dialogs are witty, intelligent, funny and even as deep as Star Trek on its best day. The chemistry is simply amazing.

    With Discovery, Star Trek has been raped by the neoliberal ideology to unrecognizability, but this is a more than worthy successor! And thats also why I am not surprised at all, that those very neoliberal "critics" are trashing it that much. They know exactly its 1000 times better than Discovery, but doesnt offer any propaganda value for their side, in fact exposes it.

    I can only recommend to watch it yourself instead of trusting these paid demagogues. You will laugh, and you will recognize Star Trek in it.    … Expand
  14. verun
    Feb 8, 2018
    10
    This show, while being surprisingly comedic, has exactly what uninteresting Series like Star Trek Discovery lack: character development, relative freedom from real-life problems of our time, the aim to entertain instead of trying to teach the viewer what they should think.

    This series does not take itself too serious, which is a refreshing concept for this kind of sci-fi. The lack of    This show, while being surprisingly comedic, has exactly what uninteresting Series like Star Trek Discovery lack: character development, relative freedom from real-life problems of our time, the aim to entertain instead of trying to teach the viewer what they should think.

    This series does not take itself too serious, which is a refreshing concept for this kind of sci-fi. The lack of positive reviews from the mass media shows, that they do not at all understand this.
    The average viewer, who just wants to be entertained, does.    … Expand
  15. thanatopsis
    Sep 30, 2017
    8
    It plays it a bit safe, and the jokes often fall flat, but it isn't so much funny as it is witty. It isn't perfect, but the critics don't give it enough credit. I didn't care for the first two shows, but the last two were much better. If you generally like Star Trek and/or Seth, give it a try, more than a few episodes.
    It is more Star Trek-like than the last few Star Trek movies with    It plays it a bit safe, and the jokes often fall flat, but it isn't so much funny as it is witty. It isn't perfect, but the critics don't give it enough credit. I didn't care for the first two shows, but the last two were much better. If you generally like Star Trek and/or Seth, give it a try, more than a few episodes.
    It is more Star Trek-like than the last few Star Trek movies with their dumbed-down plots and heavy use of action. I'll happily take some good and bad jokes in place of pointless action sequences.    … Expand
  16. ScytheNoire
    Dec 11, 2017
    9
    This show is the spiritual successor to Star Trek: The Next Generation. It continues to get better and better, and shows touch of social matters in the adventure of the week. There is minor parts of humour mixed in, but sci-fi is the main premise of the show, not humour. Any critic who disliked the show most likely doesn't enjoy Star Trek shows in general.
  17. Sisyphus
    Nov 19, 2017
    9
    SEVEN !!! I GIVE IT A SEVEN.
    That’s what I would give it objectively, however I would like to reciprocate the objectivity demonstrated by professional critics and just give it…pfft...9.
    Seth MacFarlane, what did you do? Oh well, it’s not too late – admit it now. You have been sexually assaulting pro critics ever since Family Guy’s Season 1 came out and you were suddenly ‘someone’. THAT    SEVEN !!! I GIVE IT A SEVEN.
    That’s what I would give it objectively, however I would like to reciprocate the objectivity demonstrated by professional critics and just give it…pfft...9.
    Seth MacFarlane, what did you do? Oh well, it’s not too late – admit it now. You have been sexually assaulting pro critics ever since Family Guy’s Season 1 came out and you were suddenly ‘someone’. THAT is the only reason why the critics loath everything you do, Family guy, American Dad, that hosting of the Oscars which was a fiasco ( pro critics said that ). I honestly cannot think of a reason apart from this one why they would not give you any credit for your professional work at all.
    Admit it ! Make peace with Gid, before the media outs you and you join your compadre’s on a list which is getting unusually long for a single calendar year.
    Personally, I think you’r a comedic genius. Over 500 episodes between your animated shows – that is a body of work my friend – not one lousy Emmy to show for it. You are only 44, Omg !
    I mean seriously, what do the critics have against you. I know not ( sad face ).
    The Orville – I enjoyed watching the ( seen 9 episodes so far ) show. Like the bits of humour with sci-fi. It’s never boring, has spectacular visual effects for a TV production. I’m glad people are watching it. Its been renewed, Im sure that under critically acclaimed brain of yours will conjure up even more ridiculous episode ideas for its 2nd season.
    And you Seth MacFarlane, will get an Emmy one day, to which you’ll later do what Southpark did to their's.
    P.S - God, make peace with God. Think i typed Gid.    … Expand
  18. ZeroiaSD
    Nov 22, 2017
    9
    Between social commentary, a diverse cast, and a sense of optimism, the Orville hits most of the same beats as Star Trek's main line of shows, and does them well. It's got a fair amount of humor, some of which works some doesn't, but the positive tone and hits are well worth the odd joke that falls flat. Moreover, it's been rounding off the edges and getting smoother and better done as itBetween social commentary, a diverse cast, and a sense of optimism, the Orville hits most of the same beats as Star Trek's main line of shows, and does them well. It's got a fair amount of humor, some of which works some doesn't, but the positive tone and hits are well worth the odd joke that falls flat. Moreover, it's been rounding off the edges and getting smoother and better done as it goes, so that pops it up higher.

    I've been waiting for a show like this for years, and it's doing something no space opera show has done in years. Some critics derided it for being '90s,' but it's mainly so in the sense of bright lights, episodicness, and optimism, and those are styles not limited to any decade.    … Expand
  19. Eva-UnitOne
    Dec 12, 2017
    8
    Way better than discovery. It's an odd but welcomed homage to star trek. It is mixed with classic star trek dilemma scenarios with Seth macfarlands crass humour. It's a fresh show, and itches the scratch for new star trek
  20. Rome
    Feb 13, 2018
    9
    This show is really good. To sum it up shortly: quite good and often even great sci-fi, funny humor that is not in any way neither overdone nor cringeworthy. Pretty neat looking special effects, decent CGI. The stories are interesting and often there is some interesting moral dilemma that can nest in your thoughts for days.

    The characters are likable and it is a joyful experience just    This show is really good. To sum it up shortly: quite good and often even great sci-fi, funny humor that is not in any way neither overdone nor cringeworthy. Pretty neat looking special effects, decent CGI. The stories are interesting and often there is some interesting moral dilemma that can nest in your thoughts for days.

    The characters are likable and it is a joyful experience just to see them talk and interact; the dialogue is almost never annoying or pointless. This is not at all flat humor or goofey sci fi. I can't believe how incredible negative the professional reviewers are being. It's amazing how distant professional reviewers are from the actual viewers and sci fi fans. Seriously, an average score of 36? It should be up there in the 90'ies. I think professional reviewers have almost outplayed themselves, they're worthless and pointless and quite frankly guys, just do us all a favour and start doing something else in your lives. Everytime you feel that itch to write a professional review, just stop. Go away, we hate you (sorry to be so offensive, but so many professional reviewers these days just suck big time).

    User reviews are so much more accurate when it comes to the quality of a show. I can't believe that these reviewers are the same ones that gave Star Trek Discovery so high ratings; while I will say that I do enjoy Discovery somewhat, I must say I have been quite disappointed way too many times. Well, I'll do a Discovery review and continue with reviewing that there.

    Final verdict: The Orville is an awesome show, and until now where I have watched 5 episodes, I have to say that it just gets better and better. First episode was pretty good and enjoyable but from there on each episode just got better and better. I really hope this trend continues. Guys, this is NOT a goofey comedy show, this IS actual sci-fi, but intelligently sprinkled here and there with the wits of Seth MacFarlane who also does an excellent job at acting too. Very very well done. I hope this show gets many many episodes and many many seasons!

    Oh and btw just one last thing: if you are pirating this show and like it like I do, for the love of all that is amazing, buy it god dammit! Pay for it, purchase it! it's more than worth it!    … Expand
  21. nilsy
    Sep 20, 2017
    8
    Right now im feeling this is just ok not bad.
    But give it some time it has the potential to become a cult series if they improve it, we all knew this was going to get crappy professional reviews best ignore those they would not know a good tv show if they were PAID to review it.
  22. RogieSantos
    Nov 19, 2017
    8
    I had mixed feelings about this show when first announced, however I'm happy to state that this show has been a breath of fresh air. It must be said that Seth McFarlane's penchant for "hijacking" ideas from other shows seems prevalent, it still seems welcome in that it doesn't take itself too seriously in doing so. I'd really like to see where the show goes, and particularly hoping that itI had mixed feelings about this show when first announced, however I'm happy to state that this show has been a breath of fresh air. It must be said that Seth McFarlane's penchant for "hijacking" ideas from other shows seems prevalent, it still seems welcome in that it doesn't take itself too seriously in doing so. I'd really like to see where the show goes, and particularly hoping that it establishes something of a story arc through the rest of the season, beyond the episodic anthology that it is now. The show needs to get its legs going, and I hope more viewers support the effort.… Expand
  23. darklordabc123
    Oct 18, 2017
    10
    Its basically another star trek series, and thats a really really good thing. I'll let historians and academics figure out how the critics got this one so wrong, but for now, I really enjoy this show.
  24. 123movie
    Sep 29, 2017
    10
    LOVED it...... Quite simply it is fun! I´ve watched the first four episodes and crave more. It´s character driven... I already am rooting for several of them!
    I watched Star Trek Discovery and was bored to death... Klingons have been a snooze fest since the beginning of time. The Orville is a lot more interesting, fun and thoroughly enjoyable. May it Live Long and bring Prosperity to    LOVED it...... Quite simply it is fun! I´ve watched the first four episodes and crave more. It´s character driven... I already am rooting for several of them!
    I watched Star Trek Discovery and was bored to death... Klingons have been a snooze fest since the beginning of time. The Orville is a lot more interesting, fun and thoroughly enjoyable. May it Live Long and bring Prosperity to its sponsors so that it gets picked up for a second season and more... Love it!    … Expand
  25. pleitch
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    Wow... other reviews sum it up better, but the social commentary (like facebook likes) are fantastic without pushing it down your throat. Like they mention a climate issue in the background TV and state the % of people who don't believe it, so that's not a fact. That % was the % of Americans who don't believe in climate change, irrespective of the science. I mean - unless you knew thatWow... other reviews sum it up better, but the social commentary (like facebook likes) are fantastic without pushing it down your throat. Like they mention a climate issue in the background TV and state the % of people who don't believe it, so that's not a fact. That % was the % of Americans who don't believe in climate change, irrespective of the science. I mean - unless you knew that you wouldn't have even picked up on it because it is subtle, not something I'd expect (most shows shove their morals down your throat until you gag). It means that even if you disagree with something like climate change, you can take the point that "popular belief" shouldn't actually have an impact on what are objective facts. As it clearly stated, "I believe you are mistaking opinion for fact.".

    Just so I don't get anger from people saying climate change isn't real - I don't care if you think it's real or not - just pointing out that this is how the show subtly addressed the most bizarre effect of social media on our current society.

    Anyway, the show is just enjoyable, and the most believable "future" for humans I've ever seen. I can honestly imagine people like this in ANY workplace, including a spaceship.    … Expand
  26. dorv
    Oct 20, 2017
    10
    Orville is a delightful break from the Star Trek thought police.

    Seth mixes cynicism and moralphobia in his typical not subtle contratheism style.

    The show introduces a darker tedium of predictability.

    13 episodes per year is unamerican. Shame!

    Less bovine feces in plots would be much preferred.

    Bold search for wisdom, man.
  27. mrMidnite
    Oct 22, 2017
    10
    Great series, has spirit of good old 90' scifi shows like canon star treks, stargtate or farspace. I love this mix of comedy and serious plot. I was sceptic about this show but since first episode its really great suprise i hope ther will be many seasons .
  28. Knight3079
    Nov 2, 2017
    10
    The Orville is everything Hollywood can't figure out, in fact if you look too the reviews to the left the critics don't get it ether. It's a great show and a fun watch. If you haven't watched it your so missing out.
  29. Dont4get2wipe77
    Jan 5, 2018
    7
    I’m really enjoying this show. It’s punchy, light hearted humour makes things fun and there’s some genuinely cool sci-fi moments. It’s not perfect, sure, but it has more than enough going for it to keep you watching. It does an excellent job of paying homage to shows like (most notably) Star Trek while at the same time obviously ripping it apart (in a fun way). Add to the mix a decent castI’m really enjoying this show. It’s punchy, light hearted humour makes things fun and there’s some genuinely cool sci-fi moments. It’s not perfect, sure, but it has more than enough going for it to keep you watching. It does an excellent job of paying homage to shows like (most notably) Star Trek while at the same time obviously ripping it apart (in a fun way). Add to the mix a decent cast and some guest appearances and it ends up a nice little slice of comedy and escapism. I don’t know about you, but that’s been something I’ve sorely missed recently.… Expand
  30. WeirdWizardDave
    Nov 5, 2017
    10
    Started good and got better with every episode, frankly I've not idea what the critics are smoking but this show is a breath of fresh air amid the current crop.
  31. GJA
    Nov 5, 2017
    10
    Don't believe the critic reviews, they're trying to be negative on purpose. I can't wait for the day their jobs get replaced by youtube reviewers. They see the show is inspired from Star Trek and they start bashing it, while star trek discovery sucks so much...
  32. Chrisma55
    Nov 11, 2017
    9
    Ok after episode 9 I had to register to metacritics to write two reviews. 1 on The Orville and the other on Discovery. 1st of all I have to say I'm a trekker trekkie so I feel a little subjective on these two. Discovery got me from the beginning and appart of the 7th episode, I am totally satisfied. For The Orville it's the opposite, I did not hate it, but I felt shame for SethOk after episode 9 I had to register to metacritics to write two reviews. 1 on The Orville and the other on Discovery. 1st of all I have to say I'm a trekker trekkie so I feel a little subjective on these two. Discovery got me from the beginning and appart of the 7th episode, I am totally satisfied. For The Orville it's the opposite, I did not hate it, but I felt shame for Seth Mcfarlane after episode 1. What was that i just seen?? Didn't expect that, wasn't funny wasn't serious. Oh, I felt the homage part of the endeavour but I was sad. I gave it a shot and was rewarded from episode 4 to this day and they found their cruise speed and their place in the sci-fi star trekkie niche. I hope this experience is given it's chance and that Fox doesn't go NBC on this strange but very satisfying show. The professional critics don't have this wrong, problem is they lack the commitment needed, the investment that I gave in time and réflexion and I feel rewarded as they went on with other agendas in their work they got stuck with a bad first impression...… Expand
  33. Qvice
    Nov 18, 2017
    10
    What makes this such a great show for my wife and I is the homage to the classic episodic style where each episode tells one unique story with an ending. It does this very well and the variety of each episode is surprising. It took her a few episodes to except the utopia style of an optimistic future(which is not used much anymore in any show). Gigging together at it's pure silliness isWhat makes this such a great show for my wife and I is the homage to the classic episodic style where each episode tells one unique story with an ending. It does this very well and the variety of each episode is surprising. It took her a few episodes to except the utopia style of an optimistic future(which is not used much anymore in any show). Gigging together at it's pure silliness is such a joy and is now one of our new favorite shows!… Expand
  34. scubad
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    Absolutely love this show. The one with Rob Lowe was so funny. ha ha..."want to go swimming" ! Hope it stays on the air. I am a fan of the original Star Trek. This show has similar interesting positive stories & characters. Star Wars is all battles & has many people living under an oppressive master.
  35. Argentium
    Nov 25, 2017
    10
    Ignore the critics, they were wrong about the original Star Trek too back in the 60's. The fans have found this show and we won't let them or fox turn it into another Firefly (meaning how YEY treated it)

    This is Seth's Love letter to the shows of the past but has humor throughout but the jokes aren't the focus of the show
  36. agkkag
    Dec 10, 2017
    9
    I love this show. About me: 38, male. Star Trek is my favorite show of all time and Family Guy is my least favorite show of all time.
    I was really looking forward to Star Trek: Discovery and ultimately was disappointed by its lack of substance and stretched out premise. I much prefer the style of a show where each episode has its own new plot rather than a continuation of a previous    I love this show. About me: 38, male. Star Trek is my favorite show of all time and Family Guy is my least favorite show of all time.
    I was really looking forward to Star Trek: Discovery and ultimately was disappointed by its lack of substance and stretched out premise. I much prefer the style of a show where each episode has its own new plot rather than a continuation of a previous episode. Check. The comedy element of The Orville was a little uncomfortable to get used to, but now that I have it seems to work perfectly in tandem with show's thriller elements. Under the veil of silliness hides a smart, creative show that has the potential of being as beloved and respected as TOS, TNG, DS9    … Expand
  37. KMH2017
    Dec 10, 2017
    9
    While not every joke works, it is overall funny, entertaining, and embodies the spirit of Star Trek much better than Star Trek Discovery. The feel is very reminiscent of TNG.
  38. Nemo888
    Jan 6, 2019
    3
    Poorly done Star Trek fan fiction IMO. I don't get how some people like it.
  39. SchnitzelPoof
    Oct 30, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Excellent show, that provides a lot of entertainment, fun, and interesting characters - more than we've seen coming out of actual Star Trek in years. It had one weak episode so far, but quickly picked up after it, and is only getting better since.
    The futuristic setting is well done, there are interesting science fiction ideas, and humor complements the story, rather than take the front stage.
    For a show that supposedly doesn't take itself seriously, it isn't afraid to tackle current societal & moral issues. While most of the ideas are what you might expect from McFarlane, its episode covering the current witch hunt culture on social media (and society at large,) where people are judged by the mob, forced to go on an "apology tour," and are then sent to "re-education," was bolder than anything on TV or cinema.    … Expand
  40. inopinatus
    Jan 13, 2019
    10
    Hugely compelling and totally anachronistic, The Orville defies the mundane expectation of critics. Where most modern television feels the need to spoonfeed the audience, this show treats viewers like grown-up intelligent people. Routinely grappling with philosophical themes that most shows would run screaming from, without ever thinking highly of itself. The Orville is really refreshing TV.
  41. brufrog
    Dec 15, 2017
    8
    I really enjoy this show, and I think the 'official' critics are missing the point. Hey, I hate Family Guy too, but I can see that this is something very different. As a majorStar Trek lover, I find The Orville to mostly be a comedy tribute to Captain Kirk. That's a good thing.
  42. kevinroldan982
    Oct 29, 2017
    10
    Great show, the cast is fantastic, the soundtrack is awesome, the set looks cheap but well made. I have been enjoying every bit of it, Its a fantastic show that deserves atleast 4 seasons, But that is just me. Seth did a great job and i hope this show goes on for years.
  43. wightmouse
    Oct 31, 2017
    9
    Really loving this show. I was never a fan of Star Trek - I always felt it lacked warmth - so find The Orville vaguely reminiscent of Babylon 5 as a 'Ship and Crew' show with a soul. It's not wall to wall laughs and I like that, it makes the modern issues seem less forced, yet it's not stuck up its own backside for the 'cult' value either. I really wish the critics would stop slamming itReally loving this show. I was never a fan of Star Trek - I always felt it lacked warmth - so find The Orville vaguely reminiscent of Babylon 5 as a 'Ship and Crew' show with a soul. It's not wall to wall laughs and I like that, it makes the modern issues seem less forced, yet it's not stuck up its own backside for the 'cult' value either. I really wish the critics would stop slamming it and listen to the viewers because I can see another Firefly ending to another decent sci-fi offering.… Expand
  44. mysan
    Mar 1, 2018
    10
    Incredibly and unexpectedly "The Orville" owns the real spirit of "Star Trek". The one of Gene Roddenberry i mean. The focus is the exploration of human soul. The space, the ship, the aliens, are just a pretense to speak about serious themes without been heavy. I really love this show.
    "Beam me up..." again!
  45. disastermatt
    Jul 22, 2018
    9
    I am a long time Star Trek fan and was disappointed when CBS did not make Discovery available for free on network TV. Thankfully, there was The Orville on Fox and it has been a great way to satisfy my cravings for more Star Trek. The show was a little off in the beginning and though I liked it from the start, I wasn't loving it. But I kept watching. Just finished the last 5 episodes of theI am a long time Star Trek fan and was disappointed when CBS did not make Discovery available for free on network TV. Thankfully, there was The Orville on Fox and it has been a great way to satisfy my cravings for more Star Trek. The show was a little off in the beginning and though I liked it from the start, I wasn't loving it. But I kept watching. Just finished the last 5 episodes of the season, starting with Cupid's Dagger and I am absolutely hooked and so glad there will be a Season 2. The show has Star Trek-worthy plots (like the season finale) but interjects humor, mostly in the form of what you always imagined the crews of Enterprise or Voyager thinking or wanting to say. It is a feel-good show, as Star Trek was, and I cannot express how much I have missed something upbeat and positive and free of preachy and angry politics. Thank you, Seth McFarlane for this gift! Can't wait for Season 2!… Expand
  46. Karsazilla
    Jan 31, 2019
    0
    This season the Orville has been a drag to watch, to many SJW references and not a lot of scifi. How do you make a parody about sci fi and turn it into this? No real conflict at all just 1 episode so far vs the bad guys and its 6 episodes in. Not enough to keep me watching.
  47. MichaelDorosh
    Feb 1, 2019
    8
    Hard to review this without repeating points from the many very good reviews already out there. Very nice mix of classic Star Trekian idealism with some very healthy character development. MacFarlane could have made this a complete vanity project but has wisely shared the interesting story lines among this talented ensemble cast. Could be a little more even-handed with its approach toHard to review this without repeating points from the many very good reviews already out there. Very nice mix of classic Star Trekian idealism with some very healthy character development. MacFarlane could have made this a complete vanity project but has wisely shared the interesting story lines among this talented ensemble cast. Could be a little more even-handed with its approach to religious-themed stories, but for the most part is a thoughtful, funny, charming television show that long-time ST fans, and others, can enjoy.… Expand
  48. Nebulawolf
    Jan 5, 2019
    10
    I'll keep this short and sweet - First episode of of season 2 was funny as; i found myself rolling on the floor laughing, time and again. This is the best Star Trek series going bar none. Do yourself a huge favour and watch The Orville. Feel good TV at its very best.
  49. Jill_Sandwich
    Jan 25, 2019
    10
    Star trek Discovery is just another Star Wars. This looks, sounds, feels, smells, & tastes like Star Trek.
  50. gijoe50000
    Dec 11, 2018
    10
    You just know the critics got it wrong when the critics hate it, and the audience love it.
    It did take me a few episodes to get into the Orville. At first I was expecting it to be a comedy, but then "bam" there was also a plot, and some serious Star-Trek-like morals. I was confused. But then, 3-4 episodes in, and I knew what to expect from the episodes, and I love it!
    Anybody who    You just know the critics got it wrong when the critics hate it, and the audience love it.
    It did take me a few episodes to get into the Orville. At first I was expecting it to be a comedy, but then "bam" there was also a plot, and some serious Star-Trek-like morals. I was confused. But then, 3-4 episodes in, and I knew what to expect from the episodes, and I love it!
    Anybody who dislikes the show, in my opinion, just hasn't given it enough of a chance. When I used to watch The Next Generation, or other Star Trek, I often saw some opportunities for some really funny gags, but Star Trek is always too "serious" for this kind of stuff.
    This fills the niche perfectly..    … Expand
  51. boidiva02
    Feb 24, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a show that has shown vast improvement in it's second season. It has somehow managed to explore extremely deep issues like identity and discrimination and become a fascinating study on humanity. Although the characters are not very well defined, the writing manages to make you care deeply about each character. They have managed to take great creative risks this season, such as allowing one main character to leave the series all-together and allowing another main character to become a villain in a wholly unexpected plot twist that puts the entire cast of characters in mortal danger. When it debuted people unfairly assumed it was going to be a slapstick comedy in the style of "Family Guy" but this series is so much more and tackles deep issues with style.… Expand
  52. Mikeafr
    Feb 5, 2019
    10
    This show is absolutely fantastic! Literally, almost every single episode is worth watching.

    At first, I thought this was just going to be a lame Star Trek parody. Let me make this clear - it is NOT. The episodes are well thought out and discuss social/ethical issues that are timely to our world today. (Yes, with some humor thrown in.). They also don't just discuss these issues in    This show is absolutely fantastic! Literally, almost every single episode is worth watching.

    At first, I thought this was just going to be a lame Star Trek parody. Let me make this clear - it is NOT. The episodes are well thought out and discuss social/ethical issues that are timely to our world today. (Yes, with some humor thrown in.). They also don't just discuss these issues in some superficial or idiotic way; rather, they are presented in a way so as to present various points of view and each of point of view is a sincere perspective that a good amount of thought was given to.

    If you are a Star Trek fan that misses TNG/DS9/VOY/ENT, this is an excellent substitute.    … Expand
  53. Daisah
    Jan 2, 2019
    9
    After watching the entire first season I felt I had to log in and comment simply because the critics are so wrong about this one. Whilst the first few episodes feel like they were trying to find a balance between seriousness and comedy, the show quickly finds its footing. Sure, this may contain comedy but make no mistake this show is not a pure comedy- episodes revolve around interestingAfter watching the entire first season I felt I had to log in and comment simply because the critics are so wrong about this one. Whilst the first few episodes feel like they were trying to find a balance between seriousness and comedy, the show quickly finds its footing. Sure, this may contain comedy but make no mistake this show is not a pure comedy- episodes revolve around interesting subjects that can translate to current real world issues, with comedy used to alleviate tension. I love Star Trek and wasn't too impressed by Discovery..... but this? This is a true spiritual successor to Next Gen.… Expand
  54. Doctor_GLaDOS
    Feb 14, 2019
    10
    This show is amazing! The characters are well defined, deep and interesting. All of the storylines are both fun and have a good moral message that is implies and not shoved down your throat and it has an obvious Gene Roddenberry vibe with its hopefulness and uplifting message.
    That's the brief summary for those who aren't interested in reading more.
    To start off I'm a huge Star Trek fan    This show is amazing! The characters are well defined, deep and interesting. All of the storylines are both fun and have a good moral message that is implies and not shoved down your throat and it has an obvious Gene Roddenberry vibe with its hopefulness and uplifting message.
    That's the brief summary for those who aren't interested in reading more.
    To start off I'm a huge Star Trek fan having grown up on TNG, Voyager, and Enterprise with the last one having a special place in my heart since I was born in 1998. When I first heard about a Star Trek TV show coming out I was really excited about the prospect of revisiting The Federation. Unfortunately, when Star Trek Discovery finally came out I didn't feel the rush of nostalgia I was expecting and hoping for. Instead, I felt nothing. I thought that maybe I just wasn't interested in Trek anymore, not to mention Discovery isn't a very good show. Then I heard about The Orville. I was sceptical at first and didn't give it a shot for a year since I just assumed that it cannot be the good old star trek without its copyright, I was so wrong. From the very first minutes, I felt the same joy I had years ago and I instantly knew that THIS IS STAR TREK! Except for a few awkward jokes here and there, this is like watching TNG or Enterprise for the first time. If you are a Trek fan and you wish a modern version of your nostalgia, this is it. Avoid Discovery, watch this instead.    … Expand
  55. ganglio33
    Feb 8, 2019
    8
    One big hole in my nerddom has been star trek: I've never consumed book, tv show or movie of this universe. Waiting for the continuation of several excellent sci-fi series (The Expanse, Westworld...), I came across the Orville (see post above). It started out with a very scatological/childish humor but became better and better such that it is one of my favourite shows in today's tv.
  56. nkuk
    Feb 12, 2019
    10
    This show is absolute genius! I love it, its wonderfully original, inventive, funny and perfectly captures the upbeat positive spirit of the old Star Trek TV shows. The humour is spot on and the stories so far have been hugely original. I haven't seen anything like it before and am looking forward to future seasons. Seth McFarlane has really done well with this show. The actors are allThis show is absolute genius! I love it, its wonderfully original, inventive, funny and perfectly captures the upbeat positive spirit of the old Star Trek TV shows. The humour is spot on and the stories so far have been hugely original. I haven't seen anything like it before and am looking forward to future seasons. Seth McFarlane has really done well with this show. The actors are all also great and work really well together. Its my favourite show at the moment.… Expand
  57. poisoner
    Feb 9, 2019
    10
    Ever since Data saved Picard in the final Star Trek movie I have been hoping for Star Trek to come back.

    The Orville has given me back my Star Trek. Sure, it may be under a different name, but this show is more faithful to the spirit of Star Trek than any of the alleged Star Trek stuff that has been made lately. As far as I am concerned, the original Star Trek, the original movies,    Ever since Data saved Picard in the final Star Trek movie I have been hoping for Star Trek to come back.

    The Orville has given me back my Star Trek. Sure, it may be under a different name, but this show is more faithful to the spirit of Star Trek than any of the alleged Star Trek stuff that has been made lately.

    As far as I am concerned, the original Star Trek, the original movies, the next generation, the next generation movies, DS9, voyager, enterprise, and The Orville is where the real Star Trek is at. Everything else is an immitation.

    As for the critics, they are on some kind of mission with some weird agenda. I am not sure who is angry at who or why this time, but the critic reviews are obviously part of some hit piece project. Someone some place has an interest in seeing this show fail for some reason.    … Expand
  58. wgl
    Jan 5, 2019
    9
    I spent the first 2 episodes waiting for the jokes which is probably why the critics score is so low, The Orville is not a pastiche of Star Trek but a very sweet homage which is actually a lot more enjoyable than almost every Star Trek product in the last 20 years, everyone involved seems to be enjoying themselves and it deserves the cult status it has already garnered
  59. nevinator23
    Jan 29, 2019
    9
    Not a fan of Family Guy or American Dad. Haven't seen any Star Trek shows. I had no expectations of what this show was going to be, I was simply recommended to watch The Orville from a friend and I've enjoyed it as a whole from the first episode. Each episode has a story of it's own while remaining intact with series continuity. I binged the first season and loved it, and the second seasonNot a fan of Family Guy or American Dad. Haven't seen any Star Trek shows. I had no expectations of what this show was going to be, I was simply recommended to watch The Orville from a friend and I've enjoyed it as a whole from the first episode. Each episode has a story of it's own while remaining intact with series continuity. I binged the first season and loved it, and the second season is doing just as well as the first.… Expand
  60. Woodsusa
    Jan 31, 2019
    10
    I'm really enjoying this show. Great characters and personal interactions. The writing is above par and it reminds me of Star Trek in many way.
  61. JZXchaser
    Feb 8, 2019
    10
    Funny how critics dont like it yet users do, again just showing the widening disconnect between the general population and the paid off critics. Get your heads out the sand.
  62. BrettC1
    Feb 19, 2019
    9
    By far the best “Trek” show currently in production. Seth MacFarlane manages to explore significant social issues in a show that actually knows how to gave fun, rather than being constantly dark and gritty or beating its audience over the head with PC lecturing. The episode exploring a society run completely by social media opinions harks back to Gene Roddenberry’s story telling at itsBy far the best “Trek” show currently in production. Seth MacFarlane manages to explore significant social issues in a show that actually knows how to gave fun, rather than being constantly dark and gritty or beating its audience over the head with PC lecturing. The episode exploring a society run completely by social media opinions harks back to Gene Roddenberry’s story telling at its best. And did I mention it’s fun? Some folks seem to think that is now a dirty word. No way you’d ever see “The Trouble with Tribbles” in a “Discovery” episode.… Expand
  63. troyallen23
    Feb 22, 2019
    10
    The Orville is a great show. It has all the elements of the old Star Trek, as well as good science fiction and special effects. The critics must not be Sci-Fi fans nor star Trek fans. Star Trek discovery is not that good. This show is much better
  64. GilliganGuy
    Feb 28, 2019
    5
    The show originally surprised me! It had a strong 'Galaxy Quest' feel to it, a bit like Star Trek lite with penis jokes. The show was silly but could still pull off some decent episodic story lines and moral dilemma type shows. However, having just watched episode 9, 'Cupid's Dagger, the scales seem to tip to the ridiculous. The show tries to deal with issues of racial hatred and war butThe show originally surprised me! It had a strong 'Galaxy Quest' feel to it, a bit like Star Trek lite with penis jokes. The show was silly but could still pull off some decent episodic story lines and moral dilemma type shows. However, having just watched episode 9, 'Cupid's Dagger, the scales seem to tip to the ridiculous. The show tries to deal with issues of racial hatred and war but juxtaposes it with flippant treatment of sexual exploitation. The show doesn't know what it wants to be, a silly satire or serious SF. And it's beginning to appear it fails at both.… Expand
  65. screenplayhouse
    Sep 20, 2017
    4
    ORVILLE accidentally asks a very curious legal question: can STAR TREK be considered a genre instead of brand?

    This show takes Trek and simply changes a few names and designs and VOILA has created what lots of people are calling 'funny Star Trek'. To me that's the lawsuit right there. We admit it's Star Trek but as a Seth McFarlane 'comedy'. Yes, I know, GALAXY QUEST borrowed    ORVILLE accidentally asks a very curious legal question: can STAR TREK be considered a genre instead of brand?

    This show takes Trek and simply changes a few names and designs and VOILA has created what lots of people are calling 'funny Star Trek'. To me that's the lawsuit right there. We admit it's Star Trek but as a Seth McFarlane 'comedy'.

    Yes, I know, GALAXY QUEST borrowed heavily from Trek as well. But since it was a parody of Trek and Trekkies it made more sense. How are you to satirize Trek and Trekkies with being similar too Trek?

    ORVILLE isn't a parody of Trek. It's Trek trying to be funny. And this is why watching this show makes me feel DIRTY. I'm watching someone steal a show I love and cashing in on lame jokes. If Trek wanted to do this, okay, but I don't think this should be allowed by entities outside of the trademark.

    I know. You don't believe me. So suppose I told you there was a new comedy on NETFLIX called BERGFELD. Bergfeld is a Brooklyn cartoonist with an extremely popular cartoon about a Jewish guy like himself living in Brooklyn. In the cartoon are his three real life best friends and building neighbors --

    1. Alanna -- his cute but sassy ex-wife.
    2. Louie Castanzoni -- his grade school Italian American friend who's as macho as he's insecure
    3. Creamer -- a bald odd ball wackjob friend who gave up porn to become a mad home inventor

    What makes Bergfeld different that Seinfeld is that it sometimes has very dramatic moments.

    You don't think that's a lawsuit? Think again. It's turning a brand into a genre and copying it too closely. So once you can get past all of this --

    -- you realize this sorry show is Seth's way of playing Captain and sitting in the Captain's chair. We get too much of this these days. Jimmy Fallon isn't an awesome talk show host. He's a guy playing out his childhood dream of being Johnny Carson.

    Sad.    … Expand
  66. Mooncalfian
    Sep 18, 2017
    9
    Don't listen to the critics. This show is an easy 8 after the first couple of episodes, and I believe it'll go up to a 9 out of 10, easily. The Orville is here to stay. It'll gain a cult following, because it's the right blend of seriousness and jokes and drama, with lovable characters and a great cast.

    The whole atmosphere of the show feels just right. Even the lighting and the music    Don't listen to the critics. This show is an easy 8 after the first couple of episodes, and I believe it'll go up to a 9 out of 10, easily. The Orville is here to stay. It'll gain a cult following, because it's the right blend of seriousness and jokes and drama, with lovable characters and a great cast.

    The whole atmosphere of the show feels just right. Even the lighting and the music tickles the nostalgia bone for Trek fans, while giving us imaginative spins on older ideas. The pacing is great, sucking you in and making you chuckle through the first half of the episode, and then giving you some action or drama at the end. Everything feels fresh and warm; it's like comfort food for sci fi nerds, and the amusing thing is it actually sticks MORE to Gene Roddenberry's original vision of a Trek future than the newer Trek attempts have.

    Unlike some comedies, I want to see what happens to the characters. I want to see them succeed. They play off each other in a way that shows really nice promise for character development and actor chemistry. If you go into this show looking for laughs every minute, you'll be disappointed. If you expect a straight up parody, you'll be disappointed. It's more akin to something like Scrubs or Bojack Horseman; strong themes, with gags and flippancy thrown in, but without ever really breaking away from the internal logical boundaries they've set for themselves. The absurdities only really come from the realities, sort of like The Office, but in space.

    Do not listen to the critics on this one. They are way off the mark here.    … Expand
  67. twistsanny
    Sep 19, 2017
    10
    I thought the first episode was a lot of fun, I read some really negative reviews but it was pretty good. It wasn't all that funny (which is kind of important I guess) but it set up the show in a interesting way and some of the characters are really entertaining(my actual honest score: 7.5)
  68. bakatsuji
    Sep 13, 2017
    8
    Whenever you bought new pnp RPG back in 90s, you got an add-on one shot adventure with it. A simple story that helped you setup the world, players, rules and enemies. That's what a pilot of Orville is. A plain and simple story to setup the cast, the world, the tone and the antagonists. By itself it is bad, but as a first episode in a series, it sink you in. Make you want more. I want more.Whenever you bought new pnp RPG back in 90s, you got an add-on one shot adventure with it. A simple story that helped you setup the world, players, rules and enemies. That's what a pilot of Orville is. A plain and simple story to setup the cast, the world, the tone and the antagonists. By itself it is bad, but as a first episode in a series, it sink you in. Make you want more. I want more. I'm just afraid that after all those reviews, stupid execs will execute it, like they've done with Firefly. It gets the same Firefly stench...… Expand
  69. jubob2
    Sep 14, 2017
    10
    Until I saw my first episode of The Orville, not since Firefly have I wanted to watch an outer space show. What in the world can the critics be thinking? This show is brilliant. Diversity of characters, humor, special effects, acting, interior design ;o) I love it!!! Please jump on the bandwagon and save this show from critics with an obvious dearth of humor genes. I love The Orville.Until I saw my first episode of The Orville, not since Firefly have I wanted to watch an outer space show. What in the world can the critics be thinking? This show is brilliant. Diversity of characters, humor, special effects, acting, interior design ;o) I love it!!! Please jump on the bandwagon and save this show from critics with an obvious dearth of humor genes. I love The Orville. Perhaps I've understated this?… Expand
  70. Opinionated75
    Sep 24, 2017
    9
    A genuinely witty antidote for the overwrought and cheerless barrage of space programs. Not quite Galaxy Quest in quality, but good enough for free TV.
  71. xeron
    Sep 25, 2017
    8
    Great, refreshing, representative mil command, bright special effects can only be growing and critical reason for like, better effects than Galaxy Quest. Star Trek no compare. Re-watched several times. Storyline good enough to support special effects and science, storyline can be like long running Simpsons and South Park. "a Science show!"
  72. vreynauld
    Sep 13, 2017
    3
    You'd think that as a sci-fi nerd, trek fan, and Seth MacFarlane fan (well, at least Family Guy and American Dad), this would be right up my alley. Nope. Everything about this show feels weak. It wants to be ST:TNG except when it wants to make poorly timed, stereotypical MacFarlane jokes. It wants to be serious and yet not be taken seriously. Everything about The Orville is a conundrum andYou'd think that as a sci-fi nerd, trek fan, and Seth MacFarlane fan (well, at least Family Guy and American Dad), this would be right up my alley. Nope. Everything about this show feels weak. It wants to be ST:TNG except when it wants to make poorly timed, stereotypical MacFarlane jokes. It wants to be serious and yet not be taken seriously. Everything about The Orville is a conundrum and it shows. Bad pacing, bad writing, poor character development, rampant tropes and blatant copying of Star Trek, and generally lackluster all around. Pretty sure I've read old Usenet fanfics that are better, they just didn't have Fox providing a budget for them. Critics are spot on about this show. Don't get hooked, it probably won't be back next year.

    Vote me down as much as you want MacFarlane zealots and apologists. I'll be waiting here with my buckets for your tears when Fox decides to can this travesty of a show. The only question is when will they do it? Will it make it a full season or will ratings be so appalling that they yank it mid-season?    … Expand
  73. Akilax
    Sep 24, 2017
    3
    My impression after having seen the first three episodes and some snippets from previews:

    "I must be watching a different show than all those users who praise it here." Usually I find myself siding more with the user score on metacritic, but on this one the critics are right. The only positive quality about this show to me were the visuals. There was a real effort made to make    My impression after having seen the first three episodes and some snippets from previews:

    "I must be watching a different show than all those users who praise it here."

    Usually I find myself siding more with the user score on metacritic, but on this one the critics are right.

    The only positive quality about this show to me were the visuals. There was a real effort made to make this show look convincingly like a "Star Trek" spin-off (not that it claims to be). The CGI is of good quality and many elements seem as though they were taken straight out of the "Star Trek" universe. Elements like the uniforms and their color coding system were almost copied, the computer consoles and ship designs have a lot of similarities and the technology presented so far reminds me a lot of many of the "Star Trek" episodes I have seen. Unfortunately this is where the similarities end.

    Considering the characters, their quirks and how they play together, the show is a complete disaster. Almost everything comes out of the blue, which may be understandable for a fresh show, but for those remembering the "Star Trek" series, character development was gradual, comprehensible and often happened in interesting interactions or events.
    Not so with "The Orville". Usually a change of mind that gets explained through a joke, makes a character do something they otherwise wouldn't have done, but it often feels more like an excuse for having no explanation at all. Deeply rooted convictions get thrown aside and if you ask how this makes any sense you have to accept that another "moment of comedy" just made it so and therefore it does not have to follow logic or be compelling.
    No, from the point of view of characters, this show fails severely.

    Considering the actual plot of the episodes, there is more disappointment to be had.
    I will not go into the perceived pushing of political views (that the show does consistently) too much, but I want to say that I found it to be very annoying despite not even disagreeing or having a stake in most views expressed. It was just done in such a bad way, it almost felt as though they wanted to break the 4th wall by intention at times. It came across as really bad storytelling.
    Otherwise the plot is quite stale. Leaving the political aspects out of it there are no interesting storylines. The show seems very episodic at the moment with little meta-plot developing between episodes. Any surprises or even plot holes get covered by "humor" and events do not have to follow logic, so you are left just passively consuming something with no intellectual engagement. Star Trek was quite a different experience for me.

    Now some may feel like I expected "Star Trek" and got disappointed, but that would be wrong. I expected comedy and got none, so I looked at what was left and saw Sci-Fi pretending to be similar to "Star Trek" and even failing at that. That is why I compare it.

    You could also take "Firefly" as a comparison. That show was truly funny with great characters and it was consistent in its own world following logical consequences within that world. "Firefly" did manage to combine Comedy with Drama in a Sci-Fi setting in its own charming way.

    "The Orville" fails, because it does not sprinkle comedy into a good story with some drama, but rather tries to save bad stories with the excuse of comical events that only exist to make the story go on somehow and aren't even funny themselves.

    I hope Seth MacFarlane will find a way to change this show in a way he can actually get his strengths to work in synergy with it. Unfortunately, the talents I have seen from him in the past do not show here at all and the huge effort put into this show seems wasted so far.    … Expand
  74. Bulk88
    Oct 2, 2017
    10
    The critics are totally off on this one. This show carries the spirit of Gene Rodenberry forward than any other show out now. The characters are both interesting and believable, plot lines are engaging and thought provoking, and the feel of the show is inspirational. Seriously, this show needs to be on the must see list for any Trekkie.
  75. keklolgloat
    Oct 1, 2017
    10
    As a 30-year-old growing up in Canada on cold snowy nights curling up and watching Trek with my family was a highlight growing up. Orville hits this ooey-gooey feeling right on the nose, it just feels; Trek.

    Also: interesting disparity between the critic reviews and the user reviews; gee wizz, could the critics be *GASP* wrong?
  76. NotchFilter
    Oct 2, 2017
    5
    This show is like chewing-gum for the mind. There's not a lot of depth to it, but it's fun to watch.

    At least parts of it are. Other parts are drawn out to be much longer than they should be. The episodes where the show tries to tackle deep issues (such the episode with as the female baby), well, the show's weak writing foundation crumples under the load of what it is trying to    This show is like chewing-gum for the mind. There's not a lot of depth to it, but it's fun to watch.

    At least parts of it are. Other parts are drawn out to be much longer than they should be.

    The episodes where the show tries to tackle deep issues (such the episode with as the female baby), well, the show's weak writing foundation crumples under the load of what it is trying to say.

    This is a fun show. Mr. MacFarlane's Captain is more reminiscent of Kirk than Picard. If only the writing were on a par with the graphics, I'd probably give the show an 8 or 9.

    The stories seem to be too familiar, it is the "don't take yourself seriously" style of this show that helps it to stand out from the rest of the pack.

    But it does not stand out too far.    … Expand
  77. Voodoo123
    Sep 29, 2017
    10
    +Great visual homage to Star Trek TNG
    +Exceptional cast
    +Excellent soundtrack +Like galaxy quest/Red Dwarf, when orville uses parody it really understands the material from which it is derived +Dramatic / ethical debates within story like classic star trek -Seth Macfarlane This show exceeded my expectations massively. As a fan of star trek I got a lot of enjoyment from this. Only    +Great visual homage to Star Trek TNG
    +Exceptional cast
    +Excellent soundtrack
    +Like galaxy quest/Red Dwarf, when orville uses parody it really understands the material from which it is derived
    +Dramatic / ethical debates within story like classic star trek
    -Seth Macfarlane

    This show exceeded my expectations massively. As a fan of star trek I got a lot of enjoyment from this. Only two episodes in and I already feel engaged with the world building and find the humour is not played at detriment to telling a good story. Pretty much my only gripe is that Seth Macfarlane is so recognisable it sort of takes me out of the show a bit although I am warming up to his and the rest of his cast's excellent performance here. I will definitely be watching more of The Orville!    … Expand
  78. PandaFromHell05
    Sep 30, 2017
    10
    First off, don't listen to the critics on this one. As always, THEY ARE WRONG.

    At first, hearing about Seth MacFarlane coming out with a Galaxy Quest style TV show intrigued me. If anyone knows Seth MacFarlane, you must know that he's a Star Trek fan. He's provided audio commentary on the "Cause and Effect" episode on the Star Trek: The Next Generation Season 5 Blu-Ray, and he    First off, don't listen to the critics on this one. As always, THEY ARE WRONG.

    At first, hearing about Seth MacFarlane coming out with a Galaxy Quest style TV show intrigued me. If anyone knows Seth MacFarlane, you must know that he's a Star Trek fan. He's provided audio commentary on the "Cause and Effect" episode on the Star Trek: The Next Generation Season 5 Blu-Ray, and he guest-starred in 2 Star Trek: Enterprise episodes. Between appreciating his humor style in shows like Family Guy and in movies like Ted and A Million Ways to Die in the West, I decided to give this show a shot.

    I admit, I was a little skeptical after the pilot. It could either go really well or really bad. Fortunately, after watching episodes 2, 3, and 4, I have decided that I like this show so much that I will purchase it on BluRay when it comes out.

    In a nutshell, this is basically Star Trek: The Next Generation with Seth MacFarlane's humor. It goes hand-in-hand. It even belongs in the Star Trek universe by replacing words like "Enterprise" to "Orville", "cutting beam" to "phaser beam", and "Federation" to "Union". Look at the uniforms..very similar to Trek. This is also a good opportunity for amazing directors from the Trek franchise, like Brannon Braga and Jonathan Frakes to prosper by directing episodes. I feel if Leonard Nimoy were alive, he'd give this a try as well.

    If you like Family Guy and like Star Trek, give this a shot. You won't be disappointed. I give this a 10/10. Perfection and amazing re-watchability in my book. Excited for a Season 2!    … Expand
  79. ulissesmt
    Oct 3, 2017
    10
    Really great show! Remember me of the pre JJ Abrams Start Trek movies. There is a really classic, TNG fell. I hope the guys get going for far more seasons.
  80. anandb
    Sep 18, 2017
    9
    Good show, some great nostalgia for me- the intro, the score, the ship itself, all very nice homages to trek. And even beyond the trekkiness, its a lighthearted show with decent production values and a good mix of comedy and drama. Based on the 2 episodes that have aired so far, this show get's a thumbs up from me.

    I dont get the critical consensus. Why must this show decide if its a    Good show, some great nostalgia for me- the intro, the score, the ship itself, all very nice homages to trek. And even beyond the trekkiness, its a lighthearted show with decent production values and a good mix of comedy and drama. Based on the 2 episodes that have aired so far, this show get's a thumbs up from me.

    I dont get the critical consensus. Why must this show decide if its a comedy or scifi? Is it a crime to be both? Nobody wants to be the critic that liked the pleb show that went against the prestige television grain. Pretty cowardly if you ask me.    … Expand
  81. Voyager7456
    Sep 12, 2017
    9
    A little rough around the edges, but definitely captures the spirit of ST:TNG and GalaxyQuest. People looking for "Family Guy in Space" will be disappointed - The Orville isn't so much a comedy as it is a straight take on Star Trek that just happens to have a couple of jokes sprinkled in. MacFarlane clearly gets Trek more than those in the Discovery writer's room, here's hoping that heA little rough around the edges, but definitely captures the spirit of ST:TNG and GalaxyQuest. People looking for "Family Guy in Space" will be disappointed - The Orville isn't so much a comedy as it is a straight take on Star Trek that just happens to have a couple of jokes sprinkled in. MacFarlane clearly gets Trek more than those in the Discovery writer's room, here's hoping that he gets the chance to see his vision through to the end.… Expand
  82. retro-junkie
    Sep 12, 2017
    2
    The show looks like it could have potential if only it had some writers. I did not find any of the humor funny. I was so looking forward to this series. But I was greatly disappointed with this first episode. This first season may be the only one unless this picks up and improves greatly. The story was bland and fell kind of flat with me and I love Sci fi.
  83. Hunter_Dragon
    Nov 3, 2017
    9
    Ignore the critics, they have no clue what they are talking about anymore, this show is truly a delight to watch, if you liked StarTrek, Galaxy Quest or good Sci-Fi (that isn't too dry or too serious and knows how to still make you laugh) then this show is SURELY for you, it has really endearing characters, gets the StarTrek look and feel right (with elements from other shows likeIgnore the critics, they have no clue what they are talking about anymore, this show is truly a delight to watch, if you liked StarTrek, Galaxy Quest or good Sci-Fi (that isn't too dry or too serious and knows how to still make you laugh) then this show is SURELY for you, it has really endearing characters, gets the StarTrek look and feel right (with elements from other shows like Firefly), some nice jokes and most importantly discusses some interesting subjects and doesn't shy from complex social/moral topics, but at the same time is careful enough not to shove any certain view-point down your throat or act in a pretentious holier-than-thou way, and it now got renewed for a 2nd season, so overall plenty of great time ahead for the Orville fans, buckle up, sit tight and enjoy the ride.… Expand
  84. vomov
    Oct 29, 2017
    6
    I'm conflicted. Cheap laughs one moment, which go from funny details all the way to cringing moments, The dialog is forced or odd at times, but the characters are somewhat interesting and less flat than one would expect. Story-wise it seems to hold up, so I'm curious where it'll go. Even if it somehow attempts to 'solve' large issues (third episode), that Picard or Janeway would sidestepI'm conflicted. Cheap laughs one moment, which go from funny details all the way to cringing moments, The dialog is forced or odd at times, but the characters are somewhat interesting and less flat than one would expect. Story-wise it seems to hold up, so I'm curious where it'll go. Even if it somehow attempts to 'solve' large issues (third episode), that Picard or Janeway would sidestep graciously. And yet, I enjoy the 'real life' of the characters; we see Star Trek officers waking up, having medical issues other than a headache or alien brain parasite, and having, screwing up, and fixing real relationships. Fight your way through the first few episodes, and you'll see it improve. How far it'll go, I'm not sure...… Expand
  85. Prosmooth
    Sep 18, 2017
    9
    Wow. I almost always agree with the consensus of critics, but not this time. This is a really fun and funny show. I gave it a chance because I thought the trailer was funny. Glad I did, because the first two episodes have been really great. Not every show has to have the depth of The Leftovers or Twin Peaks to be considered a successful endeavor.
  86. juan_pueblo
    Sep 29, 2017
    10
    La verdad, que no se quienes son los que opinan y por ende tampoco que es lo que buscan. La verdad que se trata de una serie de ciencia ficción, que homenajea a otras como Star Trek, pero ante las situaciones problemas buscan presentar la solución de una persona normal y no el de un ser superior miembro de una sociedad utópica. No entiendo el tipo de personas que mira padre de familia oLa verdad, que no se quienes son los que opinan y por ende tampoco que es lo que buscan. La verdad que se trata de una serie de ciencia ficción, que homenajea a otras como Star Trek, pero ante las situaciones problemas buscan presentar la solución de una persona normal y no el de un ser superior miembro de una sociedad utópica. No entiendo el tipo de personas que mira padre de familia o similares o una peli de james franco y seth rogen y se rasgan las vestiduras porque no les suena a shakespeare, es pedir peras al olmo. Como dice el refrán al pan, pan y al vino, vino, no pretendan buscar las cinco patas al gato, ni generar grandes expectativas, cuando claramente el show apunta hacia otra dirección. Señores críticones (no críticos) si no les gusta, cambien de canal, miren otra cosa o filmen su propia serie. Hay mucha gente contenta con esta serie, feliz de contar al aire actualmente con dos programas de tales características (me refiero a la nueva de star trek), vivan y dejen vivir a los demás, no estamos obligados a compartir sus gustos, como tampoco ustedes los nuestros. Existe algo llamado control remoto, úsenlo.… Expand
  87. Simon_Says
    Oct 23, 2017
    10
    Don't listen to the pundits, this show is GREAT, especially for those who couldn't swallow jar jar abrams abominations. It's the serie that fans of TNG/DS9/VOY have been waiting for. it has got pretty much everything, soul included, with a new twist, minus the universe and lore. Way better than the STD with the lore and universe, but lacking the soul of Trek. Orville has the soul of TrekDon't listen to the pundits, this show is GREAT, especially for those who couldn't swallow jar jar abrams abominations. It's the serie that fans of TNG/DS9/VOY have been waiting for. it has got pretty much everything, soul included, with a new twist, minus the universe and lore. Way better than the STD with the lore and universe, but lacking the soul of Trek. Orville has the soul of Trek in spades. It's not really surprising considering STD has none of the old Trek actors/directors on board, guess where they went? That's right, on The Orville behind the scenes. WATCH IT!… Expand
  88. Kaliaila
    Nov 17, 2017
    10
    As with most things entertainment in the last 20-30 years, the critics have no clue what they are talking about when it comes to entertainment. This show is both funny and insightful. It is exciting and relaxing. It makes you thinking while watching non-idealistic people face and address issues that exist in the world today. The critics seem to want the show to either be hard scienceAs with most things entertainment in the last 20-30 years, the critics have no clue what they are talking about when it comes to entertainment. This show is both funny and insightful. It is exciting and relaxing. It makes you thinking while watching non-idealistic people face and address issues that exist in the world today. The critics seem to want the show to either be hard science fiction or a straight comedy and as such they fail it; because it is neither. it's a show about normal people, and lets us see what the future might actually be like for most of us.… Expand
  89. BarkingPumpkin
    Sep 25, 2017
    4
    Not funny enough, not smarmy enough, it's almost interesting enough simply because we're familiar with vaguely similar older TV shows, but in the end it's just not worth the time.
  90. BillJustBill
    Sep 18, 2017
    0
    Television comedy shows are supposed to be quick and funny. Watch any of the good long-running shows currently on the air or in an infinite schedule of re-runs. So we can generalize that with TV comedy there are two things that need to be avoided: slow and unfunny. Unfortunately The Orville has both these qualities, in combination with a show name over which one can only scratch one's headTelevision comedy shows are supposed to be quick and funny. Watch any of the good long-running shows currently on the air or in an infinite schedule of re-runs. So we can generalize that with TV comedy there are two things that need to be avoided: slow and unfunny. Unfortunately The Orville has both these qualities, in combination with a show name over which one can only scratch one's head in puzzlement and awed disbelief (how did they possibly decide on it?). Seth is so likeable it's hard to be critical of anything he's involved in. But the show I watched yesterday, episode 1, does provide a way. It was his idea and (I guess) he wrote it, either alone or with collaboration. The first script just had to be funnier and quicker than what I saw on the air. Otherwise this dull, plodding thing would never have gotten this far. What could have happened? Who knows? One can only go by the final result. Hence the score above.… Expand
  91. Valentina
    Sep 13, 2017
    2
    It's basically little more than "Star Trek: The Next Generation" with lame jokes shoehorned in. Plus, it can't seem to decide whether to be a parody of ST:TNG, or a serious rip-off of said show. Ultimately, it comes off as weak Trek cosplay. Avoid!
  92. morgan234
    Sep 23, 2017
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. THE ORVILLE. NEGATIVE 5

    To whom it may concern:

    I am 71, an avid Science Fiction fan, and have never, ever written in to comment about any TV show ever before in my life, so you can judge this letter from that fact.
    Also I am not a sexist. I thoroughly enjoyed the show Voyager and enjoyed seeing a woman as captain. I liked Captain Janeway. I gave that show an overall rating of about 7 out of 10, the same rating I gave Star Trek TNG.

    The Orville deserves a negative rating. -5 would be about right. That's a negative five, below zero. I would rank it lower but the production values bring the score up.

    I watched the first show and was thoroughly with the basic premise.
    If I understand it correctly the premise is this: No matter how much a woman cheats and betrays a man he should forgive her because it is all his fault, anyway, because he didn't pay her enough attention.
    Imagine Scotty telling Kirk “You fired me because I sabotaged the engines, but, Capitan, it was your fault because you wouldn't give me the raise I wanted. Oh, by the way, I've pulled some strings and I'm now your second in command.” And Kirk saying, “You're absolutely right, Scotty. It's all my fault. Welcome back aboard, trustworthy crew member!”

    The problem with the captain: He is portrayed as an easy-going mild mannered milksop. If a woman's betrayal could send the character as portrayed into such a descent then he's not captain material in the first place. When he caved in and accepted the untrustworthy ex-wife as his Second that demonstrated his lack of character and of his incompetence.
    We have a woman who has already betrayed him once, and he accepts her into a position where he has to trust her absolutely. No way should you grant trust to anyone who has already shown their untrustworthiness. The way this man caved to the demand that he accept her in this position demonstrates his emasculation. This is not the personality required of a captain of any vessel, let alone one of starfleet's.

    How did the woman in question get to this position? Nepotism and secret manipulating. Sure, she says she's doing the poor jerk a favor, but she is secretly tinkering with his life, and has connived a position for herself where she can be there in person to watch the fool dance to her tune.

    This man is supposed to put his absolute trust in a backstabbing, cheating, behind-the-scenes manipulating ex-spouse. The Afghan's have stoning pits in every village just for women like this. However in the Orville's world, untrustworthy personalities are promoted to positions of authority.

    This script panders to the new Feminism ideal of the emasculated Omega male who accepts, with smiles, all the crap a woman feels like dumping on him because it's actually his fault all along because he was unaware of the female's unspoken “needs”. The message that, sure she cheated on him, but it was really his fault because he didn't pay enough attention to her is absurd. This is pandering to the “New Feminism.” Bring back Captain Janeway; She was honest and you knew where you stood with her.

    This script reeks of “Feminist” input. It has “New Feminism” “values” smeared all over it, and the stink comes across overwhelmingly on the screen.

    The basic premise that backstabbing, manipulating women are are really at heart nice people and all their faults betrayals, and secret connivings should be overlooked because... well, because they're women. . And if any male doesn't, then he's a sexist. This is the message I take away from this show. You folks can fold up your message and wipe it where the sun don't shine.
    .
    The Orville sucks big time. Not only will I not watch this turkey, but I hate this show so much I am embarking on a letter writing campaign to have it canceled. This show sends all the wrong messages.

    You can make this show watchable if you do two things: Ditch the manipulating b---h immediately and give the Captain some balls. Then, maybe, you can something with this turkey. I will refuse to watch this show again until the backstabbing b---h is written out of the series.
    A suggestion: Kill the ex-wife off in such a way the the Captain gets resolve and grows a pair.

    I refuse to watch this show again. I accidentally came across the second episode while channel surfing. The alien strong girl was in command. thought, “This is a good character. Great, they already eliminated the two repellent personalities that stink up this show.” the show was enjoyable until the scene cut to the captain and his cheating ex-wife back in their old apartment. I switched channels at that point.

    I rate The Orville an F---! (That's eff minus minus minus, not the swear word, though that certainly fits.)

    Sincerely,
    James Morgan    … Expand
  93. Semtex_Steve
    Sep 29, 2017
    8
    This show is very enjoyable and, like everyone else is saying, it has a bit of a Next Generation style in the way it presents dilemma and conflict. The comedy aspect is often very basic, but it can raise the odd chuckle and the characters are interesting. I really look forward to seeing what this show can become in the future and hope that it is given a fair chance to grow.

    It's not a    This show is very enjoyable and, like everyone else is saying, it has a bit of a Next Generation style in the way it presents dilemma and conflict. The comedy aspect is often very basic, but it can raise the odd chuckle and the characters are interesting. I really look forward to seeing what this show can become in the future and hope that it is given a fair chance to grow.

    It's not a straight-up comedy, or drama, or techno-babble sci-fi, but a mix of all three that is actually really difficult to describe. The closest thing I can compare it to is Galaxy Quest, mixed with Next Generation, mixed with Red Dwarf - but with Seth MacFarlane's sense of humor. I would certainly recommend people see the first few episodes for themselves and make their own judgment - because the critics seem really confused about this show.    … Expand
  94. Pnumekin
    Sep 13, 2017
    8
    The 1st episode's best jokes were in the trailer and overall it isn't a super funny show but I spent a very enjoyable moment watching it.

    It is refreshing, well acted, has great CGI for a TV show, it doesn't take itself seriously..obviously and it is engaging enough to get you stick to the screen.
  95. lonewolfsx
    Sep 14, 2017
    10
    I ended up watching this show as it was shared to me via a friend's mutual interest in Star Trek. Obviously, this show has many parallels to Star Trek, and personally I found the ship designs, officer layout, and other details to be very similar. Some of the critic reviews note this as a con - but personally, I found it enjoyable and comfortable. Being an avid Sci-fi fan, I'm alreadyI ended up watching this show as it was shared to me via a friend's mutual interest in Star Trek. Obviously, this show has many parallels to Star Trek, and personally I found the ship designs, officer layout, and other details to be very similar. Some of the critic reviews note this as a con - but personally, I found it enjoyable and comfortable. Being an avid Sci-fi fan, I'm already familiar with ideas like time travel devices, transporters, shuttlecraft, faster than light space ships, etc. Following this structure does not make the show uninspired or boring, but rather immediately understandable and brings the focus on the social interactions of the show rather than technical ones.

    For a long time, I've speculated and hoped for a show similar to Star Trek, but focused more on the social aspects with a sprinkling of comedy - I imagined something along the lines of How I Met Your Mother, but instead of present time, based on a group of friends on a space ship or attending Starfleet Academy and discussing their lives, careers, and romances. This show is close to that idea, and I can't help but be somewhat excited about that. After viewing the pilot episode, I had trouble stifling a smile during the action sequences and had a few polite laughs at various jokes.

    Most of the comedy is relatively intelligent (not to say I don't like Seth MacFarlane's style, but this type of show is not really conducive to Family Guy or American Dad type humor), and the occasional petty joke or low-brow joke is there but not overpowering or predictable (yet). Personally, I found this balance to work out nicely - the characters feel believable, there is some drama present to add depth to the characters, an interesting twist towards the end (no spoilers), and remind me of how my friends and I would act and talk in similar situations.

    I'm sure there are things that could be better, but I personally think it has started off on the right foot. The science fiction basis is there, the characters are likeable and interesting, the humor is varied but not excessive (like every line is a joke type shows). I'm afraid that Star Trek has such a negative stigma now - with older fans largely disliking the new "reboot" movies and the old shows have not aged well and are perceived as "cheesy," boring, or nerdy. I really hope that more people give this show a chance... I think it really appeals to science fiction fans but not as much to others at face value, which is also why it is named "The Orville" instead of something like "Spaceship Orville" or "Star Comedy Space Adventure" (ha ha) that is more science fiction sounding. I've previewed this show to my girlfriend who has no interest in science fiction whatsoever and she enjoyed it, so I really hope it will catch on because I would just love to have more content for this. Again, I've only seen the first episode so some plot devices may become old or overused as time goes on (such as Family Guy's "oh, just like the time when *flashback*" mechanic that was funny the first few seasons then became constant and boring). To the creators of Orville - thank you, the show is really excellent and I can't wait to see more. Fox is notorious for shutting down great sci-fi shows (futurama, firefly) though so... good luck.    … Expand
  96. SuperNaiv
    Oct 30, 2017
    8
    When I first started watching the show I was afraid that, since Seth MacFarlane is a creator of the show, it whould be more like a sh***y episode of a Family Guy, but in space. And the first 2 episodes did remind me very much of a cheesy childish Family Guy humor. Don't get me wrong. I do like me some of the Family Guy episodes, but I am not interested to see to much of that in a sci-fiWhen I first started watching the show I was afraid that, since Seth MacFarlane is a creator of the show, it whould be more like a sh***y episode of a Family Guy, but in space. And the first 2 episodes did remind me very much of a cheesy childish Family Guy humor. Don't get me wrong. I do like me some of the Family Guy episodes, but I am not interested to see to much of that in a sci-fi show. But as the show progressed, and the character development picked up, I started to enjoy it more and more. So far the episodic stracture of The Orville show reminds me more of the Star Trek TNG, which is a great thing. Every episode have its own story and every episode gives you some kind of moral dilemma and internal conflicts. As the show progresses you learn to know more of each character and what makes them tick, which is a great thing. This is what I call a "world building" This looks promising so far and I hope this sci fi show succeeds.… Expand
  97. Eliasc
    Nov 14, 2017
    6
    'The Orville' achieves it's stated purpose - a semi-comic version of what we all loved about the Star Trek series and films with (mostly) fine actors, decent CGI, and thoughtful stories. Gene Roddenberry would be pleased. The only negative point is that Seth Macfarlane cast himself in the lead role. I have never been a fan of his work and his acting in this series is off-kilter and'The Orville' achieves it's stated purpose - a semi-comic version of what we all loved about the Star Trek series and films with (mostly) fine actors, decent CGI, and thoughtful stories. Gene Roddenberry would be pleased. The only negative point is that Seth Macfarlane cast himself in the lead role. I have never been a fan of his work and his acting in this series is off-kilter and wooden. He has violated the 'prime directive' of film and television - never star in a production that you also write, produce, and direct. When you do so you have no one to tell you when you are awful in a role.
    UPDATE: 11/14/17 - 'The Orville' has dropped in quality during the past episodes. I keep hoping that the series creator realizes his mistake and replaces himself with a new captain and writes more compelling stories. 'The Orville' still has promise and I hope it improves.    … Expand
  98. krayzkrok
    Nov 9, 2017
    9
    After a rough start, this show has become something special. The critics are off their meds with this one, several episodes in it's really finding its feet and has become the best "Star Trek" show in years. Admittedly the first episode felt like it was mocking its inspiration a little too much, but it's gradually toned down the crass humor and found a happy medium of having fun with ourAfter a rough start, this show has become something special. The critics are off their meds with this one, several episodes in it's really finding its feet and has become the best "Star Trek" show in years. Admittedly the first episode felt like it was mocking its inspiration a little too much, but it's gradually toned down the crass humor and found a happy medium of having fun with our expectations. And the stories so far have been excellent. I'm sure it will continue to find its own identity particularly in Season Two, but so far I'm really enjoying this one.… Expand
  99. LINKFX
    Oct 26, 2017
    10
    Signed up just to review this show because I find it a fascinating oddity. A true throwback that extends the life and appreciation of the original while also applying to modern day with a comic touch and not overly annoying winking. Love the ship vfx, too. Most consistent "Trek" show currently on air.
  100. LordKiRon
    Oct 27, 2017
    10
    He just captured the old TOS and TNG spirit, that's all. Personally I am more fan of DS9 more complex story arc style , but still, compared to crappy STD that actually after killing Star Trek history also kills its spirit, this one is rather good.
    As for humor... it's not best but it does not make this show any less watchable.
    So this is great show , maybe not the one I want 100% but    He just captured the old TOS and TNG spirit, that's all. Personally I am more fan of DS9 more complex story arc style , but still, compared to crappy STD that actually after killing Star Trek history also kills its spirit, this one is rather good.
    As for humor... it's not best but it does not make this show any less watchable.
    So this is great show , maybe not the one I want 100% but surely worth to watch.    … 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.
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