The Orville Season 3 Episode 4 Review: Gently Falling Rain
The Orville — much like Star Trek that inspires it — often has something to say. Rarely does the show shy away from societal or political issues.
The Orville Season 3 Episode 4, “Gently Falling Rain,” is no exception. In fact, the messaging is particularly clear.
“Gently Falling Rain” is a reference to the rise of Donald Trump, and dealing with ideologies of people we care for that are different from our own. It also shows the power of emotion, and how it can affect our society.
The Orville is a political show. There’s no way around that. But some of their political topics are more deftly and tactfully handled than others.
“Gently Falling Rain” isn’t their best attempt. The Orville functions best when their political statements are more allegorical and less literal. Though this story takes place on an alien planet — the references to things like Trump, Fox News, and Facebook are pretty on the nose.
It’s also not particularly innovative to make the Krill blow up the peace talks. To reach a firm, long-lasting peace treaty with the Krill would be more innovative and exciting than turning them back into an enemy over and over again. Use of the Krill as the enemy again is still effective in the show’s political messaging, though.
The execution around the political messaging is overall muddy, but “Gently Falling Rain” still has a lot going for it. The production value is through the roof (thanks, Hulu!) so everything is visually interesting. The visual effects are better, and even the practical makeup effects reach new heights.
Especially J Lee and Penny Johnson Jerald going full Krill. Epic!
Gordon Molloy: What if we tried an expanding helix maneuver?
Charly Burke: Never heard of it
Gordon Molloy: That’s because I just made it up
Aside from that – The Orville breaks up its dramatic beats on “Gently Falling Rain” with humor and heart, which ties everything together well. Though sometimes the show can get bogged down in the political allegory, Seth MacFarlane never forgets his comedy roots.
So while “Gently Falling Rain” is compelling and makes some strong societal observations, it’s bogged down by the lack of subtlety.
A few stray thoughts:
- The Orville doesn’t get enough credit for how well-acted it is, either. Seth MacFarlane, Adrianne Palicki, Scott Grimes, and more truly bring their best to each episode.
- Great to see Ted Danson and Victor Garber back!
- Including the subplot about Ed and released-prisoner-turned-politician Teleya having a child together is an interesting twist, but it makes “Gently Falling Rain” feel bloated. Many things about The Orville are better on Hulu, but bloat and runtime are not among them.
- “You never want to underestimate a populist movement. Sometimes emotions can be more powerful than thoughts.”
- I would like to see a full special episode of the production of Annie that the delegation saw on Broadway, starring many different species. That would be fun, and that little girl has pipes!
What did you think of this episode of The Orville? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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New episodes of The Orville stream Thursdays on Hulu.
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Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan is an experienced podcaster and writer (particularly on media topics), who loves discussion and analysis of TV and is always looking for new shows to watch. He is also a parent who loves buffalo wings, blowing raspberries, and his beloved Cincinnati Reds.
2 comments
Way too political for my taste. There definitely is a commentary being made against people of faith and a particular political party. This entertaining show ceased to be entertaining. I would give this episode 0 stars if possible. I don’t want to be lectured when watching a show with opionated writing.
Would you feel the same way if you had thought it was about those with views opposed to your own and not about those with views similar to your own?
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