TV Review: First Six Episodes of ‘Archer’ Season 6

Chic // Contributing Writer

Archer | 22 min. | TV-MA
Creator: Adam Reed
Stars: H. Jon Benjamin, Aisha Tyler, Judy Greer, Amber Nash, Chris Parnell, Adam Reed, Lucky Yates and Jessica Walter

The first episode of season six of Archer features cobra whiskey, lady boy hookers, holograms, hidden jacuzzis, and a stranded World War II soldier from Japan. All of those things happen in approximately 22 minutes worth of cartoon.

Oh yeah, there’s also the appearance of a dik-dik.

These are just many reasons why Archer has become the rare mix of commercial success and cult following. Judging from the first half of the newest season, commercial success has not ruined creator Adam Reed as he and the creative team for the show continue to churn out one of the smartest shows on television.

Yes, they have ditched the name ISIS (for obvious reasons) and they have added a baby to the mix. Rest assured, the addition of Archer (H. Jon Benjamin) and Lana’s (Aisha Tyler) kiddo doesn’t jam a stick in the spokes of the show. The baby is always a factor, but mostly because a) people keep losing it or b) Lana constantly worries that Archer will die on a mission, leaving her kid fatherless.

The entire gang is back with only a few changes. Ray (voiced by Adam Reed) finally gets to start a season and not be in a wheelchair. Pam (Amber Nash) is no longer skinny and no longer hooked on cocaine. Cyril (Chris Parnell) is no longer the dictator of a South American country. Cheryl (Judy Greer) ditched her country singer persona.

And Dr. Krieger (Lucky Yates)… well… he’s still insane, and he may or may not be a biological clone of Adolf Hitler.

There will be plenty of guest stars this season as well, with Rob Huebel, Christian Slater, and Alison Tolman all showing up. In a piece of pure casting brilliance, Tolman is Pam’s sister, Edie, complete with her Fargo accent on full display.

There is also an episode titled “Vision Quest,” which may be the greatest Archer episode of all-time.

All in all, this season is not a let down after the wheels off genius of season five, Archer: Vice. This could be the year when the show hits that sweet spot of massive popularity, critical acclaim, and award nominations. If Archer isn’t nominated for the Best Animated Show Emmy, an absolute crime will have been committed.

Archer airs Thursdays at 10 p.m. e/p only on FX.

Related Articles:

• Our interview with Amber Nash, voice of Pam Poovey
• Coming Thursday! – our interview with executive producer Matt Thompson