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REBOOT: SEASON ONE Starring: Keegan-Michael Key, Johnny Knoxville, Rachel Bloom, Judy Greer, Calum Worthy, Krista Marie Yu, and Paul Reiser Creator: Steven Levitan NICK Reboot is a show made for people who grew up watching (and still have an affinity for) the golden age of sitcoms. It’s a fun mix of new and old, featuring the classic ideals doled out in an adult manner. It’s smartly written, providing several laugh-out-loud moments, and it features a cast that somehow works well together. Everyone plays to their strengths: Keegan Michael-Key is over the top, Johnny Knoxville is crass and a bit of a mess, Judy Greer is... well Judy Greer, and Paul Reiser brings it all together. Sometimes, when you strike gold, it's best not to question things. QUENTIN Despite the interesting premise, terrific cast, and freedom to push the envelope, Reboot seems content to play out like a network sitcom with some F-bombs (and one very unnecessary topless scene) lazily thrown in. Its meta leanings are somewhat clever, but most of the jokes are tired and lazy. I mean, the running theme of the writer’s room scenes is “old people aren’t progressive, young people are too woke.” Paul Reiser asking, “do you remember Bugles?” is a literal joke. Hardy Har Har. For better or worse (definitely worse), this series feels like an attempt at Modern Family with an edge…an incredibly dull, butter knife’s edge.

UPLOAD: SEASON TWO Starring: Robbie Amell, Andy Allo, Zainab Johnson, Allegra Edwards, Kevin Bigley, Owen Daniels, Andrea Rosen, Josh Banday, Paulo Costanzo, and William B. Davis Creator: Greg Daniels NICK I hope Upload isn’t forgotten due to the production delays of the past two years because it’s a sneaky good show. The second season picks up right where we left off, continuing its mystery plot and providing some neat twists and turns in only seven episodes. The visual effects are tremendous in this “afterlife comedy,” but it’s the chemistry between stars Robbie Amell and Andy Allo that really shines. The knock on this season is the aforementioned length. It feels far too short and ends with an unsatisfying cliffhanger that leaves things feeling unfinished. I needed more. QUENTIN In its second season, Upload has a major sophomore slump. It’s like the writers didn’t really know what to do after all the fun world building of season one, so they tried a little bit of everything. There are plotlines revolving around a murder conspiracy, a “will they, won’t they” romance, a quasi-villainous girlfriend, inner-office dynamics, corporate espionage, and a commentary on the 1%, none of which are explored all that well. It’s a lot of narrative threads for the series’ seven short episodes (about 3.5 total hours). Honestly, the whole affair just feels like setup for an assumed season three. JOSEPH Despite a great concept, the first season of Upload left a little to be desired. Thankfully, the second season changes that by adding some much needed depth to the world. The societal metaphors and existential questions are in full swing, and with that, comes a greater layer of comedy as well. Unfortunately, there are two interesting storylines that this season never commits to, so the final episode leaves you wanting more since it feels unfinished. Though a substantial improvement, season two of Upload still has some issues; let’s hope next season gets even better.

BEEF Starring: Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee, Young Mazino, David Choe, Patti Yasutake, Ashley Park, and Maria Bello Creator: Lee Sung Jin QUENTIN While I don’t agree with all the “Netflix’s Best Show Ever!!” hype, Beef certainly is one of the streaming service’s better original offerings. Steven Yeun and Ali Wong have tremendous anti-chemistry when on screen together, but the series really shines when it dives into the struggles and failures of their individual characters. The dark comedic tones, tremendous character development, and cause-and-unintentional-effect plot points give the series a heavy Coen Brothers vibe, while the surreal finale has shades of Everything Everywhere All at Once . One lingering thought is that the series would have been more impactful (and much darker) had it ended with Episode Nine, though. AMARÚ The fact that Steven Yeun made me utterly hate him is a testament to how wild Beef is. I was constantly stressed while watching this dark and dastardly clusterf*** of a show (I mean that in the best way possible). Yeun kills it as the depressed dude-bro Danny, and his douchebaggery is matched by Ali Wong’s maniacal Amy. It becomes a sport figuring out who you dislike more, yet, somehow, you still feel bad for both of them when their true emotions explode on screen. Thank God each episode is only 30 minutes long because my heart wouldn’t have survived much longer than that. PAIGE A24 has done it again! Beef is a premium, grass-fed dark comedy that takes us on an adventure of self-discovery and rage. Our two leads, Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, deliver stellar performances that allow us to dive into their characters’ psyche and imperfections, and while the show can feel overwhelming at times, it’s still worth the watch because it’s so different from anything else you’ve seen. It’s compelling, it boasts great writing, and it will definitely make you think twice before letting out some road rage. JOSEPH The themes and ideals of Beef can best be summed up with the old adage “hurt people hurt people.” Despite the marketing and initial setup, Beef is far from an outlandish comedy. In fact, calling it a comedy at all is a stretch. Instead, it functions as more of a character study that dissects the issues brought on by generational trauma and a fear of loneliness. The characters are so rich and complex that the ridiculous heights the show reaches still manage to feel believable. Beef is the type of show that hooks you in and holds your attention from beginning to end.

THE DIPLOMAT: SEASON TWO Starring: Keri Russell, Rufus Sewell, David Gyasi, Ali Ahn, Rory Kinnear, Ato Essandoh, and Allison Janney Creator: Debora Cahn QUENTIN Although some of the twists, turns, and plot points are a little absurd in a “that would never happen” way, The Diplomat remains a thoroughly engaging and ridiculously entertaining political drama in its second season. With only six episodes this go ‘round, the story moves at a breakneck pace without ever losing sight of the geopolitical stakes or the surprisingly complex characters that truly are the backbone of the series. Sure, it can get a little soapy at times, but the sharp writing, witty dialogue, and ability to subvert expectations erase any perceived flaws to make The Diplomat Netflix’s best ongoing original series.

INVASION: SEASON ONE Starring: Golshifteh Farahani, Shamier Anderson, Shioli Kutsuna, Firas Nassar, Billy Barratt, Azhy Robertson, Tara Moayedi, Daisuke Tsuji, and Sam Neill Creators: Simon Kinberg and David Weil QUENTIN Much like Netflix’s Away , Apple’s Invasion is a bait and switch. It’s marketed like War of the Worlds: The Series , but in reality, it’s just a soap opera with some sci-fi elements looming in the background. To be clear, Invasion isn’t really about an alien invasion. It’s about unconnected people dealing with regular life stuff (like a cheating spouse) at the outset of an alien invasion. Imagine the events of Independence Day happening, but you’re only watching This Is Us -style storylines. Maybe it eventually becomes the show it was advertised to be, but I’m not sticking around to find out.

THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME Starring: Jennifer Garner, Angourie Rice, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Aisha Tyler, Augusto Aguilera, and Geoff Stults Creators: Laura Dave and Josh Singer NICK The Last Thing He Told Me is just good, old-fashioned storytelling. It grips you from the start, and as it unfolds, makes great use of its limited episodes by spacing out its revelations. Jennifer Garner is strong and empowering in the lead role, and she’s surrounded by many television veterans to help round out the supporting cast. This series wasn’t on my radar, but AppleTV+ has been batting a good average on the series side lately, so I decided to give it a chance. It’s an easy watch (seven episodes, all under 45 minutes), and it kept me fully engaged from beginning to end. QUENTIN Since I haven’t read the book on which it’s based, it’s hard to know if The Last Thing He Told Me ’s flaws are inherent to the original story or new issues stemming from the adaptation. Either way, it’s not an overall bad show, just imperfect and ultimately forgettable. At seven short episodes, the pacing is borderline atrocious, not really hooking the viewer until Episode Four, before it meanders towards an ending that kinda fizzles out. The pacing also is hindered by side characters that don’t serve any real function. Still, if you’re a fan of Jennifer Garner and uncomplicated mysteries, there are worse things to watch.

THE MARVELOUS MRS. MAISEL: THE FINAL SEASON Starring: Rachel Brosnahan, Alex Borstein, Michael Zegen, Marin Hinkle, and Tony Shalhoub Creator: Amy Sherman-Palladino QUENTIN I’ve never truly understood the acclaim for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel . It has always been a solid show…I mean, I've watched it for five seasons…but it has never been one I looked forward to, episode to episode or season to season. That said, its final season is easily the best since Season One. The time jumps provide great context and, more importantly, closure for the main character's arc, and by showing where her career ultimately lands and the make-or-break moments that got her there, the story has much more narrative momentum. Despite my lackadaisical view of the series over the years, it certainly stuck the landing. AMARÚ I always admire shows that take risks, even if they don’t pan out. The final season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel took a huge narrative swing from its first frame, and while I wasn’t fond of it initially, the marvelous (*wink wink*) performances, breakneck pacing, and hilarious writing rewarded their risky dedication with a strong second half. It also delivered one of my favorite episodes of the entire show, highlighting just how great Alex Borstein is as Susie Myerson. Season Five may be a step down from previous seasons, but it grew into a proper send-off for Mrs. Maisel (Rachel Brosnahan). JACOB Although there were some not insignificant bumps in the road, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel rounds out its fifth and final season to cement a six-year legacy as one of the best shows in the entire Prime Video arsenal, and certainly one of the best-looking ever put to screen (at least from a design standpoint). Some episodes this season did drag a bit, but the highs are as high as they’ve ever been, the writing remains sincere and funny (the finale is near perfect), and the costumes are once more delightful to see. Despite their imperfect run, I’ll miss these unforgettable characters. ADRIANO The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel takes its final bow with some mixed results, but in the end, not underwhelmingly so. Initially, I found the season to be repetitive of what came before it, save for the interesting time jumps. Eventually, though, the show’s memorable ensemble, breakneck pacing, incredible writing, and character work won me back over as it took swings for the fences. Then, it delivered a deservedly marvelous final episode. Season Five might just be the best season since Season Two, and ultimately, quite the sendoff for this show.

Previous December 31, 2024 Next A BITESIZE CHAT WITH ALAN TUDYK With his 12th Disney Animated film now in theatres, Alan Tudyk joins Nick to talk about his role as Valentino in Wish , some of his career highlights, the upcoming Creature Commandos , and even do a few of his signature voices. Make sure to check out Wish now in theatres. Interview conducted on November 20th, 2023 by Nick van Dinther. Photo Credits: Banner - Ben A. Pruchnie; Photo 1, 2 - Walt Disney Studios

WHAT IF...?: SEASON TWO Starring: Jeffrey Wright AMARÚ It feels like Marvel understood that “not having stakes” is actually a blessing because What If…?: Season Two is one helluva ball of humor and joy. There’s a clear passion in these episodes that Season One sometimes lacked, and while the highs aren’t as high, there’s a care and energy that’s far more enjoyable. Each episode is filled with a child-like delight that is palpable in the writing, voice-acting, action, and story. What If…? is a comic lover’s ultimate playground, and this season is pure excitement, gift-wrapped and waiting to be opened day after day this holiday season - a great idea for its release schedule. QUENTIN Despite tremendous animation, slick action sequences, and great voicework (Taika Waititi and Jeff Goldblum, especially), What If…? somewhat suffers because of the stories being told. Most episodes are either blatant ripoffs (think, “What if…Marvel made Die Hard? ” and “What if…George Miller Directed a Marvel Movie?”), or the premise simply isn’t interesting enough to sustain a 30-minute runtime (“What if…Captain Carter Fought the Hydra Stomper?” - more like “Who Cares…?”). When you couple that with cheesy dialogue and a sense of humor that often caters to younger audiences, you end up with quasi-entertaining fare with enough “that's neat” moments to please the least demanding fans of superhero content.

PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS: SEASON ONE Starring: Walker Scobell, Leah Jeffries, Aryan Simhadri, Charlie Bushnell, Virginia Kull, Adam Copeland, and Glynn Turman Creators: Rick Riordan and Jonathan E. Steinberg AMARÚ They did it y’all. They fucking did it. Those horrible Percy Jackson movies are in the rear view because Walker Scobell, Leah Jeffries, and Aryan Simhadri are officially the new young-adult trio we’re gonna watch grow up. This show is excellent, and what’s most satisfying is the fact that for an action-packed YA franchise, the best parts are its world-building, pacing, and acting. My only wish is that next season (or four!!) lets the big moments breathe more to cut down on the anticlimactic reveals. Otherwise, this is an honest, entertaining, and beautifully structured adaptation that kept a huge smile on my face. NICK I’ve never read the Percy Jackson books (nor was I a fan of the Logan Lerman-led films), but my fellow writer Amarú's love for the book series led to me checking this series out. Honestly, what a blast! Due to its similarities, it’s bound to be measured against the Harry Potter franchise, but the world-building and eclectic cast of supporting characters (Adam Copeland is terrific) are on the same playing field. These aspects set the new leads up for success, and I expect them to only get stronger as they grow within these characters. I’ll definitely stick with this pleasant surprise of a series. CALEB Someone should’ve handed out Red Bulls on set because Percy Jackson and the Olympians is critically low on energy. The three leads basically sleepwalk through every scene, offering no charisma or chemistry whatsoever. The cinematography is expressionless, the effects look cheap, and the scripts are perplexingly dry. There were moments where it felt like the writers were going through the book scene by scene and systematically removing any and all tension they could find. The Percy Jackson books are just about as fun as young adult novels come, so there’s absolutely no excuse for an adaptation this boring. For shame, Disney… for shame.

BLACK RABBIT Starring: Jason Bateman, Jude Law, Cleopatra Coleman, Sope Dirisu, Amaka Okafor, and Troy Kotsur Creators: Zach Baylin and Kate Susman BODE I never got into Ozark like a lot of people did. Despite being filled with talent, I found that show to be half-baked in its characterization and plotting. Its deadly serious tone and plodding pace didn’t help either. My thoughts on Black Rabbit , which shares much of Ozark ’s creative DNA, are similar. Jason Bateman and Jude Law have an intriguing dynamic, and it’s tense in the right moments (especially in the last few episodes). But undercooked characters, time-padding subplots, and a near-humourless vibe keep this miniseries from reaching its full potential. It ultimately left me thinking that it should be better than it really is. QUENTIN Black Rabbit is enjoyable enough for fans of bleak crime dramas, mostly due to Jude Law and Jason Bateman, but it would have been so much better had it focused on one plotline. The true story on which it is loosely based, about a scandal at a high-end restaurant, would have been compelling on its own; likewise, had it focused solely on the good-brother-helps-bad-brother storyline, all good there too. There is plenty to mine from either of those plotlines; However, by mashing them together, neither is truly developed as well as it should be. Ultimately, we’re left with a see-what-sticks hybrid of Ozark , The Bear , and Rounders .

THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER Starring: Bruce Greenwood, Mary McDonnell, Carla Gugino, Mark Hamill, Zach Gilford, Willa Fitzgerald, Rahul Kohli, Kate Siegel, Henry Thomas, T’Nia Miller, Samantha Sloyan, Sauriyan Sapkota, Kyliegh Curran, Carl Lumbly, Katie Parker, and Ruth Codd Creator: Mike Flanagan PAIGE The Fall of The House of Usher oozes with suspense and chills. While the family in this series may be crumbling, showrunner Mike Flanagan certainly isn’t, as he continues to prove he is a Master of Modern Horror. The sheer atmosphere of this show will give you the creeps, and while there are some flaws, its storytelling approach is top notch. This may be Mike Flanagan’s best work to date, featuring a stellar cast of Flanagan regulars who manage to make Usher feel like the horror version of Succession . QUENTIN Though not without effective jump scares and haunting imagery, The Fall of the House of Usher is more chilling than outright scary, but that doesn’t make series creator Mike Flanagan’s final Netflix offering any less of a win. The storytelling structure…a man discussing his family’s downfall…provides a captivating overarching narrative even though the overall season plays like an anthology of Edgar Allan Poe’s most famous stories. This brilliant approach, coupled with terrific performances, timely themes, and proven source material, make for one of Netflix’s best series (even if some episodes work better than others). It certainly creates excitement for what Flanagan might do at Amazon. KATIE Reminiscent of Dopesick , Succession , and Final Destination , The Fall of the House of Usher is an incredible addition to Mike Flanagan’s impressive back catalogue of horror shows. It’s unsettling, gory, and darkly funny, while Flanagan seamlessly weaves Edgar Allen Poe’s stories together with his storytelling, using the source material to enhance the narrative rather than being beholden to it. The structure is engaging and fun, and I was both dreading and looking forward to finding out the unique ways that each irredeemable Usher offspring would be tortured with each episode. And, as always, the regular cast’s performances are fantastic. NICK Mike Flanagan's Netflix era only has one miss (The Midnight Club ), yet somehow The Fall of the House of Usher beats the odds to become his strongest effort. Anchored by an enthralling performance from Bruce Greenwood, Flanagan's familiar cast is terrific (including a wonderfully off-type Mark Hamill) as they enrich each of these characters with depth and nuance. It’s a bit of a departure from his previous work, but still features many of Flanagan’s staples, including some truly terrifying imagery. Add in his ability to, not only adapt the works of Edgar Allan Poe, but modernize them, and House of Usher is a touch of brilliance.