There’s nothing quite like a good laugh. Whether it’s from a clever joke, witty banter, or physical comedy, laughter has the power to bring joy. And in the world of TV, Netflix’s action dramedy series Obliterated aims to deliver just that.
Written and directed by Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald, the masterminds behind Cobra Kai, Obliterated carries the promise of humor and excitement. However, despite this impressive pedigree, the show falls flat in its attempt to blend outrageous antics with genuine comedy.
The primary issue lies in the show’s over-reliance on tired, juvenile gags that fail to generate genuine laughter. Whether it’s a character hallucinating during sobriety or a predictable vomiting scene, Obliterated’s attempts at humor fall short of the mark. The action sequences also struggle to impress, lacking the kind of high-octane energy one would expect from a show about a team of inebriated special forces agents facing off against terrorists.
While the show’s action and humor miss the mark, the talented cast does provide some redeeming moments. Nick Zano and Shelley Hennig shine as Navy SEAL Chad McKnight and CIA Agent Ava Winters, infusing their characters with charisma and chemistry. Terrence Terrell’s portrayal of the famished SEAL Trunk offers some of the series’ funniest moments, while Eugene Kim and Paola Lázaro deliver likable performances as the team’s Air Force pilot and Marine sniper. C. Thomas Howell’s portrayal of explosive technician Hagerty is unhinged and intriguing, providing a few glimpses of genuine humor within the series.