‘That '90s Show’ Netflix Series Review - Should’ve Stuck With the 70s

That '70s Show was a classical masterpiece appreciated for its comedy and script around the world. In its honor, That 90s Show was released in 2023. However, this show is perceived as a parody of its original counterparts.

The casting of That 70s Show was on point, and the 1998 release captured the essence of the bell-bottom era perfectly. From the grainy texture to the consensual humor, the 70s had it all. However, That 90s Show seemed like a cry for attention. Although the grainy texture seemed forced and absurd, the show could reach great heights if the cast were appropriately chosen. The constant appearance of the previous cast is a desperate attempt to revive old elements of That 70s Show.

There seem to be some shows that don’t need a renewal or a spin-off, and the 70s show was definitely one of them. That 90s Show has a friendly hangout atmosphere with flannel shirts and cozy weather. The show follows Leia, the daughter of Eric and Donna, and Jay, the son of Michael and Jackie.

Trying to piece together the reboot, the show is set in the same place as its original- the basement of Eric’s house. Eric’s parents still seem to be living there- missing the laughter and parenthood of their years. On a summer vacation to her grandparents' house, Leia meets the neighbor next door and starts hanging out with a good-for-nothing friend group. With her need for friendship satisfied, she decides to continue hanging out with them at her grandparent's house for the entirety of the summer. They smoke weed, make out and get drunk in Eric’s basement while trying to figure out the ins and outs of a 90s teenager.

Leia’s grandparents, Red and Kitty, are seen trying to figure out how to be good parents to teenagers while still making them likable. Under Red’s grumpy eyes and Kitty’s constant scrutiny, the kids still seem to get away with anything and everything.

That 70s Show was revered for its flawless comedy and pauses while depicting the correct state of events (or at least, the most accurate ones) throughout. That 90s Show, on the other hand, seems to have been trying a little too hard to get there. The towels and bright colors add to the 90s vibe, but the conversations and storyline seem to be forced and structured.

The cast was not the right fit for the job with their wooden behaviors and poor body language. The videography lacked the essence and structure that it usually needs. The lighting seemed to be bright with flashy backdrops, just like the 90s reminded us- an area they portrayed perfectly.

The script was filled with references to the 70s but missed the 90s touch it should’ve had. As a fan of That 70s Show, I believe that the script was awful and the remake should have never been made or attempted. Moreover, there were several times when the joke didn’t land, or the punchline left viewers more confused than before. That 70s Show was a comedic masterpiece whereas That 90s Show came across as an attempt to remember the ashes of a show long gone. 

The first season was quite boring and unbearable at times. As a fan of That 70s Show, I felt nostalgic watching the 2023 remake filled with things like the Fez commercial. However, the show could’ve been better with just a little more planning and a whole lot of casting.

Final Score- [3.5/10]
Reviewed by - Jess Doshi
Publisher at Midgard Times