“Going Dutch” attempts to deliver a fresh take on the sitcom format, but its humor often falls flat. With Denis Leary at the helm, this comedy series struggles to find its footing amidst lackluster performances and a shaky storyline.
The Story So Far
In “Going Dutch,” we meet Colonel Patrick Quinn, played by the ever-cynical Denis Leary, who finds himself navigating through career purgatory under the watchful eye of General Davidson, portrayed by Joe Morton. After a misstep that lands him in trouble, Colonel Quinn is assigned to U.S. Army Garrison Stroopsdorf—a diplomatic base where the mission has more to do with cheese-making than military strategy. Adding to the complexity is Captain Maggie Quinn (Taylor Misiak), the Colonel’s ambitious daughter, who has been running the show and is eager to prove her worth in a world where the stakes are low and the laughs are even lower.
A Lackluster Performance
Right from the start, “Going Dutch” struggles to establish its comedic tone. The initial episodes are surprisingly devoid of genuine humor, leaving viewers wondering if the series truly identifies as a comedy. Leary, known for his sharp wit and memorable characters, seems to be stuck in a role that offers little opportunity for his trademark humor. Instead of delivering biting commentary, Colonel Quinn appears more like a caricature wandering through a dull storyline.
Chemistry Issues
One of the most significant drawbacks of the series is the lack of chemistry between Leary and Misiak. Their father-daughter dynamic feels forced, resembling two strangers making awkward small talk rather than a relatable familial relationship. This disconnect weakens the narrative, preventing viewers from investing emotionally in their interactions.
Character Development
While Colonel Quinn is portrayed as a relic of a bygone era struggling to adapt, Captain Maggie’s character lacks depth and clarity. Although she aspires to political success, her motivations remain unclear, leaving audiences puzzled about her journey. What drives her ambition? What causes does she champion? These questions linger unanswered, detracting from her character’s potential growth.
Supporting Cast Highlights
Amidst the struggles of the main characters, there are moments of brightness provided by the supporting cast. Danny Pudi shines as the Colonel’s Executive Officer, adding a touch of humanity with his portrayal of a competent soldier trying to navigate the chaos. Hal Cumpston’s out-of-regulation IT whiz injects a bit of fun into the mix, though some of the subplots, such as body-shaming, feel out of place in the comedic context. Laci Mosley also offers a spark as Sergeant Dana Conway, the base’s unofficial fixer and smuggler, bringing a much-needed levity to the series.
Glimmers of Hope
Interestingly, episode five shows some promise, particularly when Captain Maggie’s boyfriend, CIA operative Rick (Parker Young), arrives at the base. This episode finally showcases actual jokes, primarily targeting the CIA, and hints at a sharper edge within the series. The dialogue cleverly critiques American imperialism and military bureaucracy, demonstrating that “Going Dutch” has the potential to deliver more than just bland humor.
Conclusion
In summary, “Going Dutch” presents an intriguing premise but ultimately falters in execution. While the show may improve over time as the characters develop and the writing sharpens, the initial episodes leave much to be desired. If it can find its comedic voice and strengthen character dynamics, there’s hope for this sitcom to transform from a lackluster venture into a more engaging series. For now, it remains a cardboard cutout of a show, lacking the substance to captivate its audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is “Going Dutch” about?
“Going Dutch” is a comedy series featuring Colonel Patrick Quinn, who is assigned to a low-stakes military base where he navigates personal and professional challenges.
2. Who stars in “Going Dutch”?
The series stars Denis Leary as Colonel Patrick Quinn, alongside Taylor Misiak, Joe Morton, Danny Pudi, Hal Cumpston, and Laci Mosley.
3. Is “Going Dutch” a comedy?
While it’s marketed as a comedy, early episodes struggle to deliver consistent humor, leaving viewers questioning its comedic identity.
4. How is the chemistry between the main characters?
The chemistry between Denis Leary and Taylor Misiak appears weak, making their father-daughter dynamic feel less authentic.
5. Are there any standout performances in the series?
Danny Pudi and Laci Mosley provide memorable performances, adding depth and humor to their respective roles.
6. Does “Going Dutch” have a political angle?
Yes, the series occasionally touches on political themes, particularly in its critique of American military practices and bureaucracy.
7. How many episodes have been reviewed?
The review covers the first three episodes of “Going Dutch.”
8. When does “Going Dutch” premiere?
“Going Dutch” premiered on January 2, 2024, on FOX.
9. Is there hope for improvement in the series?
There is potential for improvement as the series progresses and characters develop more depth and chemistry.
10. Where can I watch “Going Dutch”?
You can watch “Going Dutch” on FOX and check out related content on platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hotstar.
Tags: comedy, Denis Leary, Going Dutch, sitcom, TV series review, FOX, military comedy