In the universe of Resident Alien, a total of 34 episodes have aired so far. However, I’ve taken on the rewarding challenge of narrowing down that extensive catalog to a list of the ten most outstanding episodes that truly define the series. This was no easy feat, and while there were several strong contenders that didn’t make the cut, those details will be saved for later. Each episode in this list highlights exemplary performances from various cast members, though it’s no surprise that Alan Tudyk’s portrayal of Harry Vanderspeigle shines through prominently.
Looking ahead to the highly anticipated release of Resident Alien’s fourth season, it will undoubtedly be a significant challenge for new episodes to achieve the excellence exhibited by the greatest installments from previous seasons. Although I’m optimistic that Tudyk and the rest of the talented team can deliver, it is essential to acknowledge that Resident Alien has consistently presented viewers with masterfully crafted narratives. Notably, season three struggled to uphold the show’s elevated standards, but it did succeed in introducing a handful of remarkable episodes to the series mix.
10
“End Of The World As We Know It”
Season 1, Episode 8
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Within the constraints of season 1’s ten episodes, “End of the World As We Know It” makes a significant impact, standing out among its peers. While it may not be the pinnacle of the series, this episode excellently utilizes the bottle episode format, enriching the worlds of both the show and its characters, particularly the budding relationship between Harry and Asta Twelvetrees (Sara Tomko).
This episode serves as a crucial point for revealing Harry’s background and his extraterrestrial origins through intense circumstances that compel him to trust Asta with his hidden truths. This pivotal development unravels Harry’s real name and sets the foundation for their deepening friendship.
9
“Birds Of A Feather”
Season 1, Episode 4
The evolution of Harry into a more human-like being serves as a central theme in Resident Alien, and “Birds of a Feather” encapsulates significant moments within this progression. The episode kicks off with a hilarious montage revealing Harry’s first dream—a delightful glimpse into his awakening humanity. Throughout the episode, the humor blends seamlessly with poignant emotional moments, particularly during Harry’s visit to Asta’s family on the Native American reservation.
The dinner party scene featuring D’Arcy Bloom (Alice Wetterlund) delivers some of the show’s finest comedic moments. Both characters grapple with genuine social awkwardness, which highlights how Harry is shedding his alien outsider status while inching closer to blending into human society.
8
“Alien Dinner Party”
Season 2, Episode 8
Marking a high point in Season 2, “Alien Dinner Party”showcases the show’s character-driven narrative within the confines of Harry’s cabin. This episode not only evokes laughter with the absurd chaos stemming from the happenings of a baby alien but also addresses critical emotional stakes such as Kate Hawthorne’s (Meredith Garretson) unplanned pregnancy, making it a well-rounded entry in the series.
7
“Pilot”
Season 1, Episode 1
Pilot episodes often face the daunting task of establishing the show’s universe and characters while also delivering an engaging plot. Resident Alien’s inaugural episode accomplishes this with remarkable finesse. It successfully sets up the central murder mystery thread that runs throughout seasons one and two, while also introducing Harry as an unwilling protagonist who initially harbors intentions of exterminating human life.
6
“Here Comes My Baby”
Season 3, Episode 7
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Despite the compressed storytelling of Season 3 being reduced to eight episodes, “Here Comes My Baby”stands out as an essential installment that captivates viewers from start to finish. This episode serves as an excellent setup for the tense conclusion of the season, particularly highlighting Bridget’s comeback that propels Harry into a perilous mission against the Grey Aliens.
5
“Homecoming”
Season 3, Episode 8
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In what could be seen as a rushed finale due to external pressures, “Homecoming” delivers an exciting culmination of Season 3. It builds effectively on the previous episode’s suspense, offering a narrative arc that is worthy of a feature film. The introduction of a shapeshifting Mantid adds to the intrigue, setting the stage for the forthcoming fourth season’s adventures.
4
“Best Of Enemies”
Season 2, Episode 15
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“Best of Enemies”showcases the series’ penchant for interweaving multiple plotlines seamlessly, particularly highlighting Harry’s amusing alliance with Peter “The Alien Tracker”Bach as they face off against General McCallister (Linda Hamilton) and her forces. This episode lays critical groundwork, bridging the gap between characters aware of alien existence and those oblivious to it, leading to heightened tensions and revelations.
3
“Welcome Aliens”
Season 1, Episode 9
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2
“Love Language”
Season 1, Episode 5
“Love Language” delves deep into the complexities of familial relationships and emotional turmoil. It artfully weaves Asta’s family drama with Harry’s interactions with Isabelle (Elvy), integrating themes of loss and reconnection. This episode offers an exceptional exploration of Harry’s duality, showcasing an unfamiliar yet relatable side of him that captivates the audience.
1
“Heroes Of Patience”
Season 1, Episode 10
Establishing itself as the pinnacle of storytelling within Resident Alien, “Heroes of Patience”not only serves as a remarkable season finale but also encapsulates the essence of the show. After nine episodes of build-up, Harry’s confrontation with his deadly device culminates in a thrilling rescue mission, intertwining personal stakes with broader narratives. Remarkably, this episode succeeds in combining various plot threads, promising an exhilarating future for the series.
Its impressive character arcs and intense plot developments solidify “Heroes of Patience” as a benchmark for future episodes in the series.