Resident Alien recently returned for its third season, and once again the fate of Earth is in the balance. However, this time Harry is trying to protect the planet instead of plotting its destruction. This week, our hero continues his hostility towards the Grey-human hybrid, Joseph.
One of the series’ signature traits is its quirky humor. “The Upper Hand” is no exception bringing silly to off the wall laughs. But some of the gags serve a greater purpose cleverly tying into the different conflicts. Whether it’s Max carrying the mantle of the Alien Tracker or the mayor’s uncomfortable modeling for foot fetishists, these gags add to the greater narrative helping to resolve plot lines and leading to reveals.
Resident Alien builds the rivalry up between Harry and Joseph. Through exposition we receive an idea of the history between their species while Alan Tudyk and Enver Gjokaj effectively carry the spitefulness out on screen through their characters. Gjokaj especially brings a menacing feel to Joseph. While Joseph is on a second date with Asta, the tension and suspense grows as more of her family members are placed in the crosshairs.
The big showdown between Harry and Joseph takes a fun turn through hypotheticals and attempts to prove their superiority. Although, it ends disappointingly with a battle of wits and words that sends Joseph running. There could be more between these two, and it’s a shame that it ends so quickly. Here’s hoping that this is only a first round and we’ll see a bigger scuffle later. Preferably in their alien forms.
Because there is so much comedy on Resident Alien, it can detract from the deeper personal moments. Sometimes the show manages that balance like when Harry and D’Arcy become candid with each other while in danger. But when Sheriff Mike confronts his relationship issues or the Hawthorne’s discuss their mental insecurities, what comes before and afterwards can lessen the emotional impact or kill the mood.
“The Upper Hand” gives Harry an intimidating antagonist while showcasing the humorous and serious side of Resident Alien…with a better execution of the former.
New episodes of Resident Alien air Wednesdays on Syfy.
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