Archer Returns with Season 13, First Impressions are Familiar yet Different.

Season 13 of Archer has begun.  The famous spy-parody ended it’s last season with quite a few notable changes to the status quo, despite Season 11 and 12 involving the titular character’s attempts to restore things to how they were pre-coma.  So, how does Season 13’s first episode stack up?

Courtesy of FXX

THE BIGGEST SHAKE-UP SINCE DREAMLAND

First and foremost, the elephant in the room; the departure of Malory Archer following the death of Jessica Walter.  This is the first season to not feature the character in any capacity.  Much like the characters in this episode, there is a sense that something is different.  Now under control from the IIA, the characters find themselves uncertain of how to navigate this new setting. The leader Fabian Kingsworth makes it difficult for them to adapt.  Much like the viewer, it’s difficult to adapt to these changes.

These characters, of course have their own ways of coping with these changes.  Archer sticks to his signature habit of excessive drinking and cocky quips to get by.  Lana, despite trying to maintain a level-head, finds herself following Archer to some capacity.  Cyril tries to emulate Fabian’s behavior, despite the latter calling him out for it.  Pam maintains her crass personality, Ray tries to adapt to his new setting, and Cheryl… well, she’ll be fine.

Courtesy of FXX

BACK TO THE DANGER ZONE

Of course, this doesn’t mean that Archer is entirely different.  The show’s signature comedy still remains intact; Archer is still an enjoyable prick, Lana is still a bad ass, and Cyril is still entertainingly pathetic.  In some ways, the humor was appreciated even more.  It felt like despite these major changes, from the setting, to the changing characters, this was still the same show that fans fell in love with.

Even prior plot lines are still getting attention.  Of course, Malory’s departure looks to be a major point in Archer’s characterization this season.  The character himself states during the episode that he feels uncertain as to whether or not he should, or even wants to, live up to Malory’s final words to him, given their strained relationship.  Lana’s now soon to be ex-husband Robert is looking to keep AJ safe from Lana’s life as a spy. This makes him even more unlikable, despite his seemingly good intentions.

OVERALL THOUGHTS – IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK WITH A BUNCH OF IDIOTS DOING IDIOT THINGS, BECAUSE THEY’RE IDIOTS.

Archer Season 13 is off to a solid start overall.  While there is undoubtedly something different about the show, it still has many of the distinct elements that make it the enjoyable spy parody many have come to love.  It promises a new, unique story for viewers, without losing its comedic edge.