Peacock is NBC’s free streaming service (with ads). They recently launched 2 new comedy series with thoroughbred credits from previous NBC hits.
Girls5eva If this series has the same wacky fun vibe as Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt it’s because much of the same team is involved (led by Tina Fey). Mr. Mayor on NBC was not a strong entry from Tina Fey and Robert Carlock (creators of 30 Rock) and this show works much better. It stars Sara Bareilles, Busy Philipps, Renee Elise Goldsberry and Paula Pell as the titular 90s girl group, who decides to reunite 20 years later. There’s the same breakneck pacing of the jokes as on Kimmy and most of them land. It helps that the cast is full of sharp comic actors, although none of them are as eccentric as Kimmy (look for Steve Carell and Tina Fey in cameos). There’s lots of music (including a new original song over the credits for each episode) and abundant silliness that sometimes veers into absurdity. One of the brightest, smartest and enjoyable new comedies on TV. 
(4.5 / 5)
Rutherford Falls Michael Schur, who has created some great shows (Parks and Recreation, The Good Place, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) isn’t as successful with this venture. Ed Helms stars as the last vestige of the town’s namesake. His self of self-importance is challenged when there’s a call to remove a statue of the founding patriarch. The show is notable for its representation of Indigenous peoples, not only on camera, but with half the writers being of Indigenous heritage. Which brings us to the other main character (Jana Schmieding), who’s trying to bolster her community’s heritage while working with Helm’s character. There’s a comic feeling around the show, but it’s slight on genuine funny moments. The characters aren’t especially quirky and the situations are rather dull. This one’s a miss. 
(2 / 5)