TV Series Review: Spaced

I’ll admit it: the first time I tried watching Spaced, it didn’t go over very well with me. Looking back on it, I’m not entirely sure why. Maybe it’s that the first few episodes are more about introducing the characters, and less about firing on all cylinders. Maybe it just takes a bit to get into it.

One way or another, I gave it another go, and I’m really glad that I did. This show is like a Masters thesis in pop culture references. Once you get that–get that you’re supposed to be reading between the lines at all times–then it just sings. Since I love me some pop culture, this show is a no brainer for me.

But why should you watch it? Well, it’s the original pairing of Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead, Mission Impossible, Star Trek) and Nick Frost (Shaun’s friend in Shaun of the Dead), directed by Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, Scott Pilgrim). If those referenced movies do nothing for you, then by all means, move along. (Although how in the world those movies could do nothing for you is beyond me, you heartless wretch.) But really, it’s all about nuanced humor.

Spaced isn’t as non-stop funny as Arrested Development, but it’s like Arrested for geeks. Your brain’s working while you’re laughing, and I really like that. I haven’t finished the series yet, but you bet I will. There are some naughty words peppered here and there throughout, so be aware of that.

If you’re like me and heard about Spaced, dabbled with it for a bit, then gave up, why not give it another chance? If you’ve never heard of it at all, then now’s the perfect time to dive in. It’s on instantwatch on Netflix even as we speak. And you’re done reading my blog for the day, so it’s not like you have anything better to do.

Tomorrow: Boskone.