The first episode of Mulligan opens with a chaotic yet oddly familiar scene: Matty Mulligan (Nat Faxon), an everyman turned reluctant hero, is thrust into the presidency after saving Earth from an alien invasion. The camera zooms in on his bewildered expression as he surveys the remnants of humanity, setting up the show’s central premise—a satirical take on rebuilding society from scratch. Created by Robert Carlock and Sam Means for Netflix, Mulligan is a post-apocalyptic sitcom that blends absurd humor with pointed social commentary, aiming to be both a laugh riot and a mirror held up to contemporary politics.

At its heart, Mulligan is about the survivors of an alien attack trying to form a more perfect union. The premise is ripe for satire, and the show doesn’t shy away from poking fun at everything from bureaucratic inefficiency to political posturing. The voice cast is a standout feature, with Nat Faxon bringing a relatable everyman quality to Matty. His performance grounds the show in a way that makes the absurdity feel more accessible. As Dr. Farrah Braun, Tina Fey delivers a tour-de-force of exasperation and brilliance, stealing scenes with her sharp wit and deadpan delivery. Sam Richardson‘s Simon Prioleau adds a layer of historical context, serving as Matty’s right-hand man and providing much-needed perspective.

Dana Carvey’s Senator Cartwright is a delightful caricature of reactionary politics, embodying the show’s willingness to tackle big themes with a light touch. His character serves as the self-appointed vice-president, aiming to revive humanity’s past in a way that feels both hilarious and eerily familiar. Phil LaMarr’s Axatrax, a captured alien general, adds an unexpected layer of depth to the show. His interactions with the human characters highlight the absurdity of their situation while also providing moments of genuine pathos.

The animation style is simple but effective, with bold colors and exaggerated expressions that heighten the comedic moments. The writing is witty and fast-paced, with each episode packing in multiple gags and running jokes. The series also benefits from a strong supporting cast, including Ayo Edebiri as Jayson Moody, an aimless teenager turned military leader. Her performance brings a unique energy to the show, blending youthful exuberance with a surprising level of competence.

However, Mulligan isn’t without its flaws. The humor can sometimes feel uneven, with jokes that land spectacularly alongside others that fall flat. The pacing occasionally stumbles, particularly in episodes where the plot takes a backseat to gags. Additionally, while the show’s satire is often on point, it occasionally strays into territory that feels more mean-spirited than clever.

The series also struggles with its tone at times. While the absurdity of the premise allows for some truly hilarious moments, it can also make the show feel disjointed. The balance between humor and social commentary is a tightrope walk, and Mulligan doesn’t always land it gracefully. Some episodes feel like they’re trying too hard to be edgy, resulting in jokes that don’t quite hit the mark.

That said, when Mulligan hits its stride, it’s a genuinely enjoyable watch. The chemistry between the main cast members is palpable, and the show’s willingness to tackle big themes with a light touch makes it stand out in the crowded field of animated comedies.

The show’s exploration of themes such as leadership, societal reconstruction, and the nature of power is both timely and relevant. In a world grappling with political polarization and existential threats, Mulligan offers a much-needed dose of humor and perspective. The series doesn’t shy away from tackling complex issues, using its satirical lens to highlight the absurdity of human behavior in the face of crisis.

In terms of genre fit, Mulligan occupies a unique space within the landscape of animated comedies. It shares DNA with shows like Rick and Morty and Futurama, blending science fiction with humor and social commentary. However, its focus on post-apocalyptic politics sets it apart from its peers, offering a fresh take on a well-worn premise.

Ultimately, Mulligan is a mixed bag. It has moments of genuine brilliance, with sharp writing and standout performances, but it’s let down by uneven pacing and occasional tonal missteps. The series is best suited for viewers who enjoy satirical humor and are looking for a show that doesn’t take itself too seriously.