Watch Rutherford Falls

Rutherford Falls is a comedy series that premiered on Peacock in 2021. The show was co-created by Ed Helms, Michael Schur, and Sierra Teller Ornelas. The series is set in the fictional town of Rutherford Falls, where the lead character Nathan Rutherford (played by Ed Helms) is a descendant of the town's founder. Nathan is proud of his family's legacy and is determined to preserve the memory of his ancestors by keeping the Rutherford Museum open.

However, Nathan's plans are challenged when his best friend and muse, Reagan Wells (played by Jana Schmieding), urges him to reconsider his position. Reagan is a member of the Minishonka Nation, which also has a rich history in Rutherford Falls, and she believes that the museum's focus on the Rutherford family is exclusionary and whitewashes the indigenous history of the area. Reagan's passion causes friction between her and Nathan, setting up a central conflict that drives the show.

In addition to Nathan and Reagan, Rutherford Falls features a diverse cast of characters that bring a wide range of comedic situations to the table. Among them are Terry Thomas (played by Michael Greyeyes), the CEO of the Minishonka casino who has a contentious relationship with Nathan; Bobbie Yang (played by Jessie Leigh), Nathan's whip-smart assistant and confidante; and Josh Carter (played by Dustin Milligan), Reagan's journalist ex-boyfriend who becomes embroiled in the struggle for Rutherford Falls' identity.

The show is, at its core, a story about identity and heritage, but it also manages to cover a range of other social and political issues in a thoughtful and comedic way. For example, episodes dealing with themes like gentrification, cultural appropriation, and allyship are handled with a deft touch that never feels preachy or heavy-handed. The show is also able to balance its serious themes with a sense of playfulness and absurdity that makes it a genuinely funny watch.

One unique feature of Rutherford Falls is its setting, which is depicted as a small town with a tight-knit community. The show leans into the culture and quirks of small-town life in a way that will be relatable to anyone who has spent time in a similar environment. In many ways, the show feels like a love letter to small towns in America, even as it grapples with issues that are relevant to larger cities and communities.

One of the strengths of Rutherford Falls is its cast, which features a number of talented actors from a range of backgrounds. Ed Helms is a great lead, bringing a dry wit and understated charm to the role of Nathan. Jana Schmieding is a standout as Reagan, bringing a depth and nuance to the character that makes her much more than just a foil to Nathan. Michael Greyeyes is also a standout, playing Terry with a sense of sly humor that makes him a fan favorite.

In terms of presentation, Rutherford Falls is a slickly produced show with a bright and colorful look that feels distinct from other comedies. The show makes use of a range of filming techniques, including handheld cameras and tight close-ups, to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy that draws viewers in. The sound design is also noteworthy, with a lively score that helps to set the tone for each episode.

Overall, Rutherford Falls is a great addition to the comedy landscape, offering a fresh take on social and political issues in a way that is both relevant and entertaining. The show strikes a balance between humor and humanity, making it a perfect watch for anyone looking for a thoughtful and funny show with a sense of heart.

Rutherford Falls is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (18 episodes). The series first aired on April 22, 2021.