Summary
That ’90s Show proves you can bring beloved shows back as long as you cradle the nostalgic connection.
We review the Netflix series That ’90s Show Season 1, which does not contain any spoilers or major plot points.
Nostalgia is a surefire way to bring flogs of fans back. When That’90s Show released the cast list, hype ensued, with the memories of That ’70s Show coming to the surface.
Netflix does have a brief history of resurfacing classics; The Baby-Sitters Club, which had a resounding successful two revamped seasons, and Lost in Space, which brought a conclusive third season in 2021. Netflix fights for its lack of IP, bringing back some oldies and, so far, succeeding.
That ’90s Show doesn’t hide behind its roots. With all the cheese you’d expect from a studio audience (or a laughing track – I can never tell these days), it is clear that the revamped sequel series was looking to use a formula that previously worked. Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp) and Red Forman (Kurtwood Smith) are visited by their granddaughter Leia Forman (Callie Haverda), and with the house feeling lonely for many years, Leia brings a new generation of teenagers to Point Place. Kitty and Red are watchful eyes as the familiarities of its predecessor shine through.
Having that marked connection between both shows works. However, it’s the comedy that many would have been hesitant about. Basing the series in the 90s and bringing modern-day comedy could have been a difficult feat. But, That ’90s Show pulls it off with goofy good writing layered with wit, sarcasm, and timing. A laughing audience usually encourages viewers to laugh, but there are genuine hearty chuckles that accompany this one.
That ’90s Show is easy to fly through, and it has been created with new viewers in mind. There’s no requirement to watch That ’70s Show. This is an easy pick-me-up delivered with ease by Netflix.
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Praise has to be angled toward Leia and her friends too. The cast does an awesome job representing their counterparts, bringing a modern twist, but doing well to platform what was so likable about their predecessors. The chemistry makes you crave more. Props to the casting director.
There are moments that feel significant for the viewer. It’s abundantly apparent that Netflix wanted to honor the past and the present. Seeing Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher reprise their roles as the older Jackie Burkhart, and Michael Kelso will undoubtedly bring smiles.
That ’90s Show proves you can bring beloved shows back as long as you cradle the nostalgic connection.
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