In Archer Season 12 we get the classic Archer formula. Back to basics as the agency (the “I.S.I.S.” name is used less now) is in desperate need of funds and a rival agency, International Intelligence Agency, is poised to push them out of the market. Also, Lana (Aisha Tyler, Criminal Minds) is in a seemingly unfulfilling relationship, Cheryl (the rebooted Halloween’s Judy Greer) and Pam (Amber Nash, Mr. Robot) are HR nightmares, and Sterling Archer (H. Jon Benjamin, Bob’s Burgers) is the world’s greatest spy. The world’s greatest spy with a bad leg who uses a Tacti-CaneTM. Maybe.
As Archer continues to adjust to his still-atrophied muscles and the steep decline in available liquor quality, accountant-turned-agent Cyril Figgis (SNL alum Chris Parnell) has gained weight, and the out-and-proud Ray Gilette (series creator Adam Reed) is being headhunted by rival agencies (likely due to actually being competent and professional.) Meanwhile, Lana’s wealthy, older husband, Robert (legendary character actor Stephen Tobolowsky), feels they are drifting apart due to different goals.
A job retrieving a valuable scientist from enemy hands becomes a fight against the competition more than the kidnappers. In the end, all looks lost, but they’re saved by a Deus ex Robert when he buys the agency, much to the relief of the agency head and Archer’s mom, Malory (Jessica Walter, Arrested Development).
This rolls into the second episode where Robert attempts to take them all to Paris on a “team-building session.” Of course, that doesn’t work out as planned. Eco-terrorists with 3D-printed guns take the plane hostage. Archer and an abused but competent Cyril manage to turn the tables, but it’s Robert who saves the day and his marriage with some well-thought-out thoughtfulness.
Season eleven was praised for its increase in quality (although yours truly personally loved the “coma dream” seasons) and said by some to be a perfect “endpoint” for the Critic’s Choice and Emmy-winning series. If Archer jumped the shark on “Danger Island,” it has landed safely on the other side. As long as the acclaim and loyal viewership stay, Archer could see many more trips to the bar.
Archer Season 12 is now streaming on FX on Hulu and airs Wednesdays on FXX.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuPnKfpls8M
