“United States of Al” – why its cancellation was wrong. The Pandemic found me watching more TV than usual. And in my previous post, I laid out my argument in favor of the cancellation of “B Positive.” But I don’t share the same opinion regarding “U S of Al.” Let me explain.
Thapson
United States of Al – What’s It About?
Synopsis
The premise of “U S of Al” is unique among contemporary US sitcoms. It relates to the plight of Afghans who assisted US personnel during their deployment in that country. These Afghans did so at great risk to their lives along with their family members. In a country divided by loyalties and suspicions where fortunes reversed daily, there is a sense of obligation to assist those who stepped up to help.
One way is by re-settling these Afghans to the safety of US shores from reprisal killings. And in doing so, the sitcom familiarizes Americans of this program. And it does this through telling the story of Awalmir “Al” Karimi, sponsored over by US Marine Riley Dugan. Al has been helpful to Riley and his company while in Afghanistan, and they’ve developed a bond.
Arrival and Culture Shock
The series starts with the arrival of Al in Columbus, Ohio, where he’ll be hosted by Riley. Riley’s separated from his wife, Vanessa. Their young daughter, Hazel, lives with Riley. And they in turn live with his dad Art, and younger sister Lizzie.
So, an interesting mixed bag of scenarios awaits Al as he reaches Columbus. Needless to say, Al, like most Afghans, is very conservative in outlook. And the not so extraordinary American family is fraught with a minefield of issues he has never faced before. What could go wrong?
This culture shock, portrayed hilariously, is what makes this sitcom a fun watch. Pretty soon, Al is passing judgment on the various “issues” he sees which are the norm in the US. While he faces the challenges of a non-judgmental society that cherishes its freedom.
Al’s Attempts at Adjustment
Starting with the family structure, to the way an American family interacts, is an eye opener for Al. And furthermore, there are a myriad of other issues which we take for granted. Among these, clash of generations, conversing with women, alcohol, divorce, revealing clothing, dating, etc. bring up hilarious scenarios. While he’s judging Americans, he faces up to some sobering facts that challenge his opinions too.
All the while, Al decides he will help his friend Riley with his issues. Riley’s PTSD is also another factor at play. Then there are the issues his new family faces daily. So, Al has his hands full in trying to help as much as possible – with some hilarious consequences. And he’s learning things about America on a daily basis.
This in short forms the basis of this sitcom and makes for a fun experience.
Criticisms of the Show
A major criticism of the show is that Al is not played by a real Afghan. Initially, I found this difficult as well. But such was the brilliance of Adhir in getting into the role, I was over it soon enough. The diversity of the Afghan people also helped – unless you’re splitting hairs.
Another criticism is that the show seemed to point flaws in American culture, while pushing a diversity agenda. Again, to me it seems pretty well balanced and a good way of understanding either viewpoint. At the end of the day, it is a sitcom, and laughing at such issues is preferable instead of becoming preachy either way. And the show does a very good job with it.
Cancellation and Why It Was Wrong
The sitcom seems to be doing well as we find Al adjusting with most of the issues he had, hold down a job, make friends, and also help Riley in some situations.
Things get interesting as Riley and his ex-wife seem to get closer, Al has a hilarious attachment with a possessive American girlfriend. And then, suddenly, it is cancelled.
The show seemed to be going well. It had its ups and downs, but was entertaining all the same.
Cancelling it so abruptly was not the way for it to go. It would have been interesting to see how Al evolved, while maintaining his cultural bearings. Riley’s relationship situation was left open-ended, not to mention his PTSD. A proper closure to his situation would fix much of the other issues.
Primary Cast
Adhir Kalyan as Awalmir Karimi
South African born Adhir Kalyan is no stranger to US sitcoms. He is central to United States of Al and is the life of the show. Unfortunately, not being an ethnic Afghan made him a target for this oversight. But his performance is so good, that one very quickly forgets this fact.
Parker Young as Riley Dugan
Arizonian, Parker Young was an interesting choice for the role of Riley. With his brooding countenance, he pulls of the veteran marine, suffering PTSD, and is a great foil for Awalmir.
Farrah Mackenzie as Hazel Dugan
With her tomboyish personality, Farrah Mackenzie was excellent as the daughter experiencing the divorce of her parents. She was a joy to watch with her rebellious streak.
Dean Norris as Art Dugan
This is likely the first time I’ve seen Dean Norris playing a funny guy as Riley Dugan’s dad. Most of his roles have been tough, authoritative figures, or baddies. As an ex-Air Force guy, there’s hints of that personality on this show as well.
Elizabeth Alderfer as Lizzie Dugan
No stranger to comedy, Elizabeth Alderfer was a bit of an odd person out as Riley’s younger sister on the sitcom. While she often interacted with Awalmir, offering advice on the nuances of American culture, her character was never developed much. Which is a shame.
The Final Word
Unites States of Al, a wonderful, genuinely hilarious sitcom, with a truly unique cast touches on a very important part of recent American history. The producers should have continued with the show for at least one more season. That would have given ample time to make it a true classic among the newer American sitcoms. What a pity, as it will instead be referred to as a footnote in American television history. With its cancellation we lost a great opportunity.
Your comments are welcome below.
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