The Orville Season 3 Episode 10 Review: Future Unknown
The Orville has concluded most of its political and allegorical stories by the penultimate episode of Season 3.
So The Orville Season 3 Episode 10, “Future Unknown” focuses instead on the relationships between characters. Several relationship journeys culminate in the events of “Future Unknown” – particularly Bortus and Klyden and Claire and Isaac.
For all the turmoil that the crew of The Orville faced this season, “Future Unknown” ends the season on a positive and happy note. It’s not particularly exciting, but it’s still funny, sweet, and well-executed overall.
In Star Trek fan circles, The Orville sometimes gets mis-labeled as parody or comedy. The Orville is truly not a parody, but sometimes Seth MacFarlane’s comedic expertise shines through.
“Future Unknown” makes good use of the aforementioned expertise. It probably has more jokes and funny moments than all of the previous 9 episodes of The Orville this season. It feeds off the comedic talents of J Lee, Scott Grimes, Chad L. Coleman, and Peter Macon to bring some serious laughs.
Dr. Claire Finn: Wouldn’t we all be happier if we just accepted people for what they are instead of being disappointed with them for what they’re not?
But “Future Unknown” doesn’t feel forced, nor is there a major shift in tone. It feels like an episode where characters who have bonded over time and fought in the trenches together can finally relax a little bit. The humor is there – but is natural and true to character.
“Future Unknown” also reinforces the hopefulness of the series.
“Future Unknown” also culminates two love stories. Bortus and Klyden complete their reunion after Topa’s transition and Klyden’s bigotry led to their split. Once reunited, Klyden returns to becoming a doting spouse who is fully supportive of Bortus (even in an Elvis costume).
Then of course, Dr. Finn and Isaac tie the knot as their love story dragged out over a couple of seasons. Isaac’s journey in particular has been truly beautiful throughout the season. He’s learned to love in his own way, and his arc led from his own deactivation to his own wedding.
The Orville‘s third season has had its ups and downs, but is largely a well-executed, exciting season of a science fiction series. Are the episodes in the Hulu-era too long? Perhaps, but the content is so good that it’s hard to care.
A few stray thoughts:
- Bortus considering himself funny as a Moclan is reminiscent of Ben Wyatt on Parks and Recreation making all of the people at the accounting firm laugh. Like Ben, Bortus is funny under very specific circumstances.
- In twists everyone saw coming — Kelly and Ed spend the final moment holding hands. A reunion is certainly in their future, whether we get to see it or not!
- I really enjoyed the return of Lt. Molloy’s time-traveling sandwich.
- It’s good to see Halston Sage make a brief return as Alara, but bringing her back starts to give off series finale vibes. Same with the return of Lysella.
- Speaking of “series finale,” Producer Tom Constantino insists that the show is not done yet, but Adrianne Palicki said on a Friday Night Lights podcast that this was the last season. I’m hoping for the best but preparing for the worst.
- It’s been lovely covering this show for Season 3. Thanks to everyone for their engagement! Hopefully this isn’t the end!
What did you think of this episode of The Orville? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Critic Rating:
User Rating:
All episodes of The Orville are now streaming on Hulu.
Follow us on Twitter and on 
Instagram!
Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!
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.