Review: Space Force

On December 20^th of last year, the president of the United States and star of Home Alone 2 (1992) Donald Trump officially launched a new branch of the US military, Space Force. Naturally many were confused and amused as to why this was a thing, and it wasn’t long before people started making fun of it. And what better way to take the mickey then with a Netflix Original show, starring Steve Carell.

Following its release on 29^th of May, I have since watched the show and I will be honest, I am not sure what to think. I enjoyed watching it for the most part, but for the majority of the time, I didn’t find myself laughing as much as other shows from Greg Daniels, like The Office and Parks and Recreation, which last time I checked isn’t a great thing for a comedy show.

A show like this definitely would have worked if the world wasn’t so absolutely fucked at the moment.

I think part of the reason why the show fails is the relevancy of the recurring joke of the show. Throughout Space Force, it is being made clear that the creators are making fun and drawing attention to the inadequacies and shortcomings of American leadership. But at a time where racial injustice is high, thanks to police brutality and clear racism from leadership, coupled with the US’ poor handling of the coronavirus outbreak, it has meant that a lot of people are frustrated with the government more than ever. So while it is enjoyable to poke fun at leadership from time to time, elements in Space Force are too real, and playing them for jokes seems in quite poor taste. A show like this definitely would have worked if the world wasn’t so absolutely fucked at the moment.

The characters in the show are okay, but definitely need more time to develop (part of why I want a second season) before I really start to get attached to them. John Malcovich as head scientist Mallory is one of my favourites, with his cynicism and open hate of the goal they are working towards. I am also a fan of how while Mallory is gay, it isn’t paraded around like a token gay character. I find this so refreshing and important and is one of the reasons I love Netflix originals. There are also a few great dynamics in the show, like father and daughter Mark and Erin (Steve Carell and Diana Silvers). While the characters do have their differences and arguments they are always there for each other and there are some super wholesome scenes that can even warm up the ice cube I call a heart.

While I don't this first season is the best it could have been, I do love the concept and I did enjoy watching it. Let's just hope it gets better.