THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY [Netflix]


The Post-Op drugs fog my brain so reading is impossible right now. So I decided to binge-watch some Netflix series. I read The Umbrella Academy graphic novels a few weeks ago (you can read my review here) so I was ready for the major storyline: the destruction of civilization in an apocalypse that only The Umbrella Academy can prevent.

The seven “gifted” children, raised by an eccentric wealthy father, an android mother, and simian advisor, all have problems. But the prospect of the end of the world seems to bring The Umbrella Academy together. Some have called The Umbrella Academy (both the graphic novels and the Netflix series) a case of a more dysfunctional group than the X-Men. Yes, there are changes; not everything in the plot follows the books. I’m annoyed that there’s so much “filler.” The original story could have be filmed in three episodes. But Netflix demanded more so we have 10 episodes with plenty of “diversions.”

The Umbrella Academy features plenty of background music. My favorite song is “Never Tear Us Apart,” a reinterpreted INXS hit from 1989 given new life by Poloma Faith. GRADE: B-

13 thoughts on “THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY [Netflix]

    1. george Post author

      Steve, same here. Dysfunctional kids with powers are a dime a dozen today. Diane bought advanced tickets to CAPTAIN MARVEL. We’ll see it Friday afternoon.

      Reply
  1. Jeff Meyerson

    We’re passing on this too. I’m hoping CAPTAIN MARVEL does well, but like Diane, I don’t think it is going to be another WONDER WOMAN.

    Reply
    1. george Post author

      Jeff, Netflix doesn’t release viewing numbers but it seems that THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY is doing well. If Netflix orders a second season of THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY, the second graphic novel dealt with the Kennedy Assassination.

      Reply
  2. Rick Robinson

    I mentioned when you reviewed the graphic novels that this sounded like Michael Straczynski’s Rising Stars and I still think so. There was talk at the time of a movie of that, but Straczynski wisely decided not to. This shows why it was wise. Netflix seems to get carried away with their projects, though without streaming I haven’t seen much, just read reviews.

    Looks like you still have nasty weather. We have snow here this morning, but it’s just at Freezing so it probably won’t stick. Barbara insisted on going out together her hair “done”. When’s the last time you had your hair done, George? Ha.

    Reply
    1. george Post author

      Rick, I get my hair cut at SUPERCUTS once a month whether I need it or not. Diane has her hair done about once a month, too, but pays four times as much.

      Netflix “invests” in many projects hoping they draw an audience. But the recent cancelations of several of their MARVEL projects–JESSICA JONES, LUKE CAGE, IRON FIST, THE PUNISHER, etc.–shows that their audience is fickle.

      Reply
    1. Jeff Meyerson

      Rick, Jackie is now getting her hair done once a week (or so) no matter how cold and miserable the weather. Some of us don’t have the problem.

      Reply
      1. george Post author

        Jeff, Diane has to “coordinate” her hair appointment with a friend so they can chat during the hours long process. I’m in and out of SUPERCUTS in 10 minutes.

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