Fired on Mars

First off, I have seen every episode that's been released, unlike almost all the other reviews which only saw the first episode. The show has an interesting premise: main character is one of the first human colonists on Mars but gets fired because his job is no longer needed. Now he must struggle to find a new job or else he essentially becomes a burden on the colony: a mouth to feed that doesn't contribute.

That out of the way, the show isn't a comedy. There are some jokes/funny moments, but it's not meant to make you laugh constantly like every other Adult Animation out there. It's more of satire/statement on corporations, the work we do for them, and ultimately finding purpose in our lives. Even tho the show is set on Mars, a lot of people can easily relate to main character. Most of us aren't CEOs or Doctors or have big important jobs, we are just cogs in the machine forced to do whatever job we get just to be able to feed ourselves.

Now this show isn't a pro-socialism or anti-capitalism or political, it's just pointing out the reality and absurdity of life while using Mars as the perfect backdrop for exploring the shows many themes. And the main character, Jeff, perfectly explores these themes. He's very human. He experiences grief and loneliness, and a lot of self doubt and confusion. He makes A LOT of mistakes, to the point he is unconsciously self sabotaging. But he is also optimistic and determined, doing whatever job he can to stay be a valued member of the colony.

Give this show a watch if you want something different that you may fine you relate to rather well. Just don't go in expecting a full on endless laugh fest, because that's not what this show is.

The first few episodes are pretty sad and depressing. This show isn't a mindless comedy but is actually pretty deep and intelligent after watching it through.

I started to realize this was a good show around episode 6 or so. I'm glad I didn't give up on it and kept with it.

The comedy it does have is subtle and often dark. It's not written like a traditional comedy but you can find humor in situations and characters.

You start to like Jeff more as the show goes on and his character develops from a pathetic depressed man to somewhat endearing and good guy. We can all feel helpless and worthless at our lowest times and as each episode goes by it shows how we can overcome that and build confidence.

Lastly, in the first couple episodes a lot of the corporate guys just seem like obnoxious assholes but as you get to know their characters even they become likable by the end. I feel like out of everything this show did the best with character building because they are all unique and memorable. Look forward to more episodes and hopefully a sequel.

There is a lot to like about this show. I finished the 8th episode today and I'm still wanting to see what's next. Main character is someone that keeps having bad luck. Anyone that's around him he uses for his personal gain because he's kind of a leach. There is a lot of great cringe with his decision making. Which is the beauty of this show. He's attempting to become the unlikely hero. Once he's offered the easy life then he realizes that isn't who he wants to be. Truly a character hitting the bottom and emerging on top...

Question is.. is he the hero of his own story or building up to fail?

I think its clear from all the 2 and 3 stars that this show is simply too smart for most people who review on here:

"Not sure what their (sp) going fer, but I watched this show for 3 minutes and it WASNT family guy, sucks, 1 star"

This clearly isn't a laugh out loud comedy, or even a comedy, I guess. Scifi drama with comedic elements is probably a better sell - I wasn't aware of any advertising but it sounds like maybe HBO mixed up the messaging.

The show is engaging, dark, and satirical, and while it takes place on mars, Jeffs struggle to find meaning and the setbacks from failure are something we can all relate to. At first, I wanted Jeff to get sucked out an airlock, but by episode 6 or 7 you are actively rooting for him. Thats called character development, and its pretty neat.

First off, if you have only watched one or two episodes then don't review it.

This is an excellent show, it is not a comedy and doesn't pretend to be. There's a lot of uncomfortable situations, with super cringe from deeply flawed characters. The setting is a crucible for an unholy cocktail of these characters, limited resources, and a hostile environment outside and inside. Within their confines, it's almost like Office Space, outside it's any Mars film. We follow the main character as he confronts his flaws, always optimistic, searching for a higher purpose and meaning to it all.

Do yourself a favor and watch without judgement. This one has a unique vibe that is highly engaging with tons of subtle payoffs along the way.