Alan Tudyk has always been a beloved figure in the realm of television and film, but his recent portrayal of the alien Harry Vanderspeigle in Resident Alien has garnered him newfound acclaim. For those who initially discovered him through the cult classic Firefly, where he played the charming pilot Hoban “Wash” Washburne, this new role has offered a fresh perspective on his comedic talents. As fans of Tudyk continue to grow, the unique appeal of his work in Resident Alien is paving the way for new audiences to appreciate his abilities.
The Allure of Resident Alien
Upon learning that Alan Tudyk’s next venture was a sci-fi comedy series, excitement was palpable among his long-time fans. Playing an extraterrestrial attempting to assimilate into human life resonated perfectly with Tudyk’s comedic strengths, a fact made evident as the first season aired on SyFy in 2021. The show quickly became a viewer favorite, and it’s perplexing that some still haven’t tuned in to witness the humor and depth it has to offer.
Harry’s New York Adventure
In the second season of Resident Alien, Tudyk’s character embarks on a quest to uncover the existence of Dr. Harry Vanderspeigle, the human he impersonates following his spaceship crash in the small town of Patience, Colorado. This journey leads Harry and his steadfast friend Asta Twelvetrees, portrayed by Sara Tomko, to New York City, where they unravel a mystery encoded in a language familiar to Harry from his home planet.
The characters soon find themselves following a trail leading to an art gallery owned by Violinda Darvell. Here, they are stunned to learn that she possesses vital knowledge about Harry’s true identity. This revelation sets the stage for comedic and dramatic encounters amid the vibrant backdrop of New York City.
A Comic Misunderstanding in Times Square
During their escapades at the gallery, Harry, unfamiliar with earthly substances, unknowingly consumes a dose of LSD. This ill-advised choice triggers a chaotic transformation back into his alien form in the heart of Times Square. Miraculously, the bustling urban crowd hardly reacts to the sight of an alien among them. Panic-stricken, Harry contacts Asta saying, “I just saw an alien take off its head and there was a human inside!” This scene epitomizes the surreal, often hilarious situations that characterize Resident Alien, offering not just laughs but deeper observations on human behavior.
Harry’s First Kiss: An Alien Perspective
Season 1 gives viewers a delightful glimpse of Harry’s interactions with a young boy named Max Hawthorne, who is uniquely capable of seeing through the alien’s disguise. In a bid to help Max overcome his fears, Harry is invited for dinner with the Hawthorne family. After an awkward but funny dinner, D’Arcy, Asta’s friend, requests a kiss, leading to one of the series’ most memorable scenes. Harry, inexperienced and influenced by media portrayals, awkwardly attempts to kiss D’Arcy by licking her face—a moment of cringeworthy humor that encapsulates the alien’s struggle to understand human customs.
Exploring Alien Enthusiasm at a Convention
In another standout episode, Harry and Asta visit a UFO convention filled with enthusiasts donned in alien paraphernalia. Here, Harry’s alien insights offer comedic gems as he subtly mocks the inaccuracies presented by the attendees. The episode poignantly addresses the absurdity of human fascination with extraterrestrial life, punctuated by Harry’s breathtakingly naive proclamations about his own species’ interstellar feats.
The 59ers Play: A Dramatic Miscalculation
Patience is deeply rooted in its history, which is humorously portrayed when Mayor Ben Hawthorne decides to write and direct a children’s play for the town’s annual event. This play, chronicling the tragic tale of 59 miners who perished while trying to save a fellow man, takes a disastrous turn during its climax. The darkly comedic re-enactment spirals into chaos, creating a far more gruesome portrayal than intended, much to the horror of parents in attendance and delight of the audience witnessing such over-the-top performances.
A Heartfelt Goodbye to 42
Undoubtedly, one of the more poignant moments in the series occurs when Harry rescues his alien “cousin” 42, an octopus who served as both a source of companionship and vital information regarding Harry’s mission on Earth. Their bond deepens until circumstances lead to a tragically comical turn when Harry’s dog, Murphy, becomes too curious. The octopus, having made his last wish to be consumed with fine dining, leads to a heartfelt scene where Harry honors 42’s request amidst a backdrop of grief and laughter, showcasing the blend of humor and depth that resonates throughout Resident Alien.
Final Words
As the popularity of Resident Alien continues to soar, it serves not just as a comedic escape but also as a clever reflection on humanity’s quirks and interactions. With Alan Tudyk at the helm, the blend of absurdity, heartfelt moments, and keen observations creates a unique viewing experience. As fans eagerly await further developments and developments in Harry’s story, it’s clear that the series offers something genuinely special in the crowded landscape of television comedy.