Archer S13 Episode 2 and 3 Review

As the newest season of Archer began, it was clear that it would feel different.  A change in gang’s employers, Malory’s departure, and new personal struggles ensured this latest season would need to do something different.  The first episode was a solid foundation, so it was fair to expect the following episodes to work with it.  As it stands, Episodes 2 and 3 do so in very different ways, and to much different results.

Courtesy of FX

Episode 2 – Archer Stuck in the Past

Starting with Episode 2, there is a return to something of a status quo.  The gang goes on a mission in the middle of the jungle, with tensions high towards Ray.  Much of the episode heavily utilizes the series signature tropes, yet not much is done to work with them in new or unique ways.  Ray still gets horribly injured, Cyril is still Archer’s punching bag, and Cheryl is… well, still insane.  To be honest, there’s not much memorable to this episode.  There’s no jokes that stand out, no set pieces which stand out.  All that stands out, is how standard this episode is.  This doesn’t necessarily make it bad, it simply makes it an episode that exists.

Courtesy of FX

Episode 3 – Archer’s Next Steps

Compared to Episode 2, this episode changes the scenario up a bit for these characters.  Archer and Lana are attempting to get a broker before he is killed by various gangs.  In the meantime, Pam and the rest of the gang watch over AJ as Lana is too busy to spend a day with her.  With Archer and Lana, high speed action is the highlight, and the broker makes for a charming character, despite the difficulties he presents for everyone.  It’s here that the best scene in the episode comes, as Archer reassures Lana that she is doing the right thing as AJ’s mother, despite her doubts.

Parallel to this, is the subplot with AJ.  Although she’s been a part of prior episodes, this is the first time where she’s been an active part of an episode.  Pam and the others try to figure out ways to have fun with the young preteen.  While hesitant, AJ follows along, displaying an impressive skillset.  She’s proficient with firearms, hand to hand combat, and beating the crap out of Cyril.  These two plot lines culminate into a massive firefight in the Agency.  Afterwards, AJ’s ignorance towards Archer is shown to still be present, much to Archer’s dismay.  Still, it’s clear that she is very much his daughter.  She displays similar behaviors to Archer, including a pension for drinking(albeit juice rather than alcohol).  The episode even ends with a small, but effective parallel to Malory.

Final Thoughts

The previous two episodes of Archer have been a mixed bag. While Episode 2 was nothing special, and even forgettable, Episode 3 evolved the tropes of the show and gave AJ a prominent, active role for the first time.  The new dynamic that she provides is refreshing, and adds something that is missing with Malory’s absence.  Moving forward, if Season 13 wishes to be of high quality, it should continue to follow in Episode 1 and 3 examples.

Check out the review of the Season Premiere.