At first glance, it would be easy to give We Are Not Alone a pass. How many movies about aliens coming to earth do we need, after all? Having watched this, my answer is: well, at least one more.
Created & written by Ben Willbond & Lawrence Rickard (Six Idiots, Ghosts, Horrible Histories) We Are Not Alone was a welcome find following repeat viewings of Ghosts. The pair come together to create a sci-fi comedy that is a pleasure to watch.
After their planet, Gu'un, becomes uninhabitable, newly named Trater, Gor-DAN & Greggs arrive in the UK, determined to move the capital from London to the 'centre of the landmass' which they have determined is... Clitheroe.
With a complete lack of understanding of how things on earth work or why (& the inability of newly bought, but not particularly motivated pal/government contractor Stewart to be able to explain-he doesn't know either) shenanigans ensue as the group try to gain their footing in a world that is largely hostile to their presence.
Simply put, what you have in We Are Not Alone is a fun, easy watch. As I understand it, while this is a standalone project, it's also intended to serve as a potential pilot for a future series, which I believe would be a great way to go. There are enough questions & loose ends as to how the newly formed 'Section 78' will function in the long term that I believe it would be well worth developing it further.
The political satire element is enjoyable to watch, especially under the current circumstances. No, it's not heavy hitting, nor is it intended to be. What it is, is easy, fun and pleasure to watch. There are certainly dynamics between earthlings & Gu'uns to explore in future episodes should the writers/creators choose to go that route. I certainly hope they will.
If you enjoy British comedy, We Are Not Alone is definitely worth your time. I don't like hardcore sci-fi (at all) and this has a great balance & perfect humour for someone like me.
