That ‘90s Show: In comparison to That ‘70s show

Spoiler Alert!

That '90s Show started streaming on Netflix last week on the 19th of January as a spin-off for that '70s show, which premiered in 1998 for 8 seasons.

As a fan of That '70 show, I was fascinated to see if the spin-off would live up to my expectations of the original show. After watching the series for a day, I had a mixed opinion.

Back in Point Place, we see the home of the cast originals Kitty and Red, being visited by Eric and Donna for the Fourth of July weekend, bringing along their teenage daughter Leia, who will be the series' star. Throughout the episode you get transported back to watching the original show with the performance of the actors creating the same dynamic they had back then. With guest appearances from Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis representing their roles as Michael and Jackie.

Leia seemingly compared to her father as an awkward teen, wanting to make friends but feeling a bit odd compared to them. We see her befriending the rebellious teen neighbor Gwen, her brother Nate, his girlfriend Nikki, and other friends Ozzie and Jay Kelso- son of Jackie and Michael Kelso. We see each of the new characters as replicas of the originals but with a twist- an exciting twist.

The writers made a great effort to include the nostalgic elements of the original cast without trying to overdo it. Still, it would've been great to see the original cast reunite on screen. Fez appears in later episodes, as well as Bob and Leo.

The series continues with Leia fitting in with the group as they occasionally use the Foreman's basement to hang out and get high. The scenes include subtle hints to the original series and explain what happened with Fez and Jackie but leave out other storylines like any hint as to where Hyde is or what the past 15 years held for Leia's aunt Laurie.

The series develops with Leia taking an interest in Jay Kelso. The relationships and friendships develop nicely throughout the show, touching on subjects of Ozzie's sexual orientation as he comes out to Mrs Foreman. It is a heart-warming scene as we remember the loving mother figure that Kitty acts as to many of the characters.

Many fans have taken to Twitter to express the trouble of the show being on Netflix, but the streaming site is missing the original series. After watching That '90s show, I tried so hard to find that '70s show and rewatch it after the nostalgia it brought.

The show being set in the 90's is an essential factor in the atmosphere of the show. Does it really feel like the 90s? There are many links between music, fashion, and slang.

The last episode hits a cliffhanger with Leia and Nate sharing a moment despite them being romantically linked with others just before Leia makes her way home as the summer ends. We just can't wait to know if a new season is coming.

© Aimee-Michelle O’Connor 2023