Throughout its first six seasons,Archerhas been paradoxically both welcome to and resistant of change.
The narrative change-ups were much welcome and, in a way, creatively admirable.
Unfortunately, despite the drastic changes in controls and purpose,Archerstill somehow got a little stale.
Some time mid-way through season six it seemed like the show may have become too self-referential.
Im happy to report that the third time seems to be the charm in this case.
The former-ISIS* gang begins the season in sunny Los Angeles, a fact that few are excited about.
Or as Archer puts it because California is assholes.
The new setting couldnt possibly work better.
The jokes are as consistent and self-referential as ever.
And in case you were wondering, yes, we are doing phrasing again.
But when it got lazy, that cleverness was almost entirely verbal.
*Be sure to peruse the Wikipedia entry for Alphonse Bertillon prior to episode two.
And each episode reviewed thus far has included a twist or two that is legitimately surprising and satisfying.
There is even a season-long film noir-esque mystery blooming in the background of each episode.
Archerseason seven may not totally reach the heights of its earliest seasons.
There is an inevitable law of diminishing returns for some of its brand of humor.
But still, its hard to view this season as anything other than a return to form.
Comedy is hard, callback and self-referential comedy is harder and animation is harder-er.
Its a small miracle thatArcherhas been able to turn in the beginnings of a solid season seven years in.
Sterling Archer may be proud of his inability to learn new lessons butArcherhas learned plenty.
Rating:
4 out of 5
