Archer’s 14th and final season is coming to a close, and fans are excited to see how the show will wrap up its story. After a few experimental seasons, the series returns to its roots with a focus on comedy and storytelling. The two-part season opener sets the tone for the rest of the season, and it looks like the show will be going out with a bang.
Lana takes center stage in this season, finally getting the chance to lead The Agency. Seeing her in this role is a natural next step for the story and the adjustment period leads to plenty of laughs. The introduction of a new series regular, Interpol agent Zara Khan, adds a fresh dynamic to the show. Zara’s methods are so extreme that Archer’s typical tactics seem boring by comparison, and her presence sends Archer off his axis in a way that makes him uncomfortable and forces him to prove himself.
The show’s return to form is evident in its use of humor and character development. Each character revisits their old positions at the office, which highlights how much some have changed, while others have remained insane. The added bonuses of Krieger’s kooky inventions and Cheryl’s deranged antics make for some laugh-out-loud moments. Even more, the office setting brings back the series’ classic 2D animation style, which gives the characters a paper doll-like appearance.
New faces are also joining the mix. Zara Khan is a great addition to the series, and her rivalrous chemistry with Archer adds an extra level of excitement to their missions. Meanwhile, Pam’s evolution from HR to super spy is a welcome change, and it’s gratifying to see her and Lana succeeding in their roles.
The comedy in Season 14 is refreshing, and the show allows its characters to be as wacky and outlandish as they should be. The inclusion of familiar faces is also a treat, and longtime fans will love seeing some of their old favorites back in the fold.
One burning question heading into the final episodes is whether Archer and Lana will ultimately end up together. Their relationship has been put on the backburner for some time, but that will-they-won’t-they energy still hangs over the two of them. The same uncertainty surrounds Pam’s girlfriend Alessia, who may or may not make an appearance in the final episodes.
Archer’s 14th season is off to an excellent start, and it looks like the show will get the sendoff it deserves. The first half of the season has breathed new life into the series, and the new team dynamics have an appeal that would certainly outlast the final eight episodes.