Pilot Review: Mulaney

Mulaney (FOX)
Premiered October 5 at 9:30pm

FOX has had a pretty decent track record with its comedies recently, and it’s no surprise that it would be expanding its sitcom slate. What was once “Animation Domination” on Sunday nights now has three very successful animated series, none of which I like – “Bob’s Burgers,” “The Simpsons,” and “Family Guy” – but is interspersed with two live-action series. Once is breakout hit “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” from last year, and the other is “Mulaney.” In part, it’s a modern-day version of “Seinfeld,” with its title character working as a stand-up comic and occasionally delivering pieces of monologues in between the series’ actual events. The key difference is that there are plotlines here, and, unfortunately, they’re nothing like “Seinfeld.” This is typical sitcom fare at its most generic, which is a shame since this could have been an entertaining series if it was somewhat more creative. John Mulaney, who I kept confusing with “Frasier” star John Mahoney (not that close, I now realize, and very different in age), did do a great job of delivering his first extended joke, which starts this show off on a strong note. From there, however, it’s all downhill, with two proven talents, Martin Short and Elliott Gould, used to regrettable effect as overenergetic ensemble players. There are funny moments every once in a while, but they’re far less enjoyable in this stale sitcom format. In this case and in this day and age, the laugh track is hardly an asset, instead a reminder of the fact that this show just doesn’t feel fresh.

How will it work as a series? Mulaney’s new stint as a writer for Short’s Lou Cannon is going to give him some opportunities but also be ripe with frustrations. Ultimately, both are supposed to be endearing, and I think that this show’s heart is going to win out over its funny bone. I’m not sure whether that’s a good thing or not – netiher appeals to me too much.
How long will it last? TVbytheNumbers is the first search result when you put “Mulaney ratings” in Google, and its headline is “Mulaney is certain to be canceled.” Vulture says it “flops out of the gate.” This show doesn’t belong on Sundays on FOX, and I don’t think the network will keep it there for much longer.

Pilot grade: C