Mission Control

Mission Control was a 2014 NBC series that harkened back to the 1960s, using the space race era as its compelling background. The series began development with a pilot order announcement by NBC in early 2014, with Will Ferrell and Adam McKay from Gary Sanchez Productions producing the show. The series was conceived by David Hornsby, who is known for cult classics like "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," promising a creative wit and comedic edge to this exploration of America's ambitious venture into the cosmos.

The series embodies a blend of comedy, drama, and history, providing both humorous and intense moments. Set in the heart of the Golden Age of the Space Race, Mission Control paints a vibrant portrait of the United States' space program's advent, focusing on the trials and tribulations of the important individuals who made it possible, from scientists to astronauts.

The story revolves around Dr. Mary Kendricks, a brilliant and ambitious woman playing her part as a NASA scientist to put a man on the moon. Notably, Dr. Kendricks is a rare character in the challenging aerospace domain typically dominated by men during the 1960s. She manages to hold her own during this socially revolutionary period, offering viewers a unique perspective on gender roles and equality during these bygone times.

The series further explores the dynamic of Dr. Kendricks working alongside a predominantly male team, even as she contends with a stereotypically macho astronaut, Tom. The developers took well to the task of portraying the amusing rivalry and tension between the two leads, establishing a layered and engaging relationship that kept viewers on their toes.

Mission Control doesn't shy away from showcasing the cultural and societal norms of the era. The characters are seen wrestling with gender norms and roles in the context of a professional environment—a matter that was undergoing significant change during the time. It is this dynamic of staking out professional and personal space in the sexist world of the 1960s that makes the series a stimulating watch.

The series sets itself apart with its authentic 1960s aesthetic, achieved through detailed production design that replicates the design ethos and fashion trends prevalent during this time. From the bulky computers to the characters' fashion, it provides a nostalgic view of a bygone era.

The dialogues are quick and witty, interspersed with comedy that caters to a wide audience spectrum. The humor is often rooted in the clash between traditional societal constructs and the ongoing progressive movements during the time period. The comedic undertones don't undermine the historical content but rather go hand in hand with the historical narrative, making for an enjoyable blend of humor and historical education.

Each character in the show is well-developed, featuring personal stories that align with the historical context without losing sight of the larger narrative. They each are an embodiment of the societal nuances that existed in the 1960s, from quintessential "American Dream" idealists to budding feminists disrupting norms.

Mission Control was initially slated as a mid-season entry in the 2014-2015 season. Although a full-season order was never made, and the show was eventually canceled, it nevertheless has a certain nostalgic charm. It provides an interesting look into the space-race era promising light-hearted entertainment while shedding light on the painstakingly meticulous efforts that led to Neil Armstrong's first step on the moon. Despite its short-lived run, Mission Control aimed high, delivering a unique take on a historical space-run period interspersed with humorous and memorable moments.