“The Pentaverate” is a comedy series led by Myers, who plays many characters: not just the lead Ken Scarborough, but also five Pentaverate members, the conspiracy theorist Anthony, Rex Smith (an Alex Jones parody), and more. It’s a lot to handle, especially in the scenes where there are several versions of Myers acting with himself. It’s a bold gamble that doesn’t really pay off; sure, in small doses, it can be charming, but I often found myself wishing Myers had another comedian to collaborate with onscreen. 

Credit where credit’s due: Myers remains a good impressionist, for the most part. While not every character here is really effective, I appreciate that some characters have real-life counterparts; for example, his media mogul character Bruce Baldwin is an Australian Conrad Black. Easily the standout though was Ken Scarborough, who is clearly inspired by the real-life local news anchors Myers grew up watching. As someone who regularly tuned into CHEX for my local news in Peterborough, Ontario, I can attest to its accuracy. I almost wish that Myers’ Netflix project was simply “‘Anchor Man’ but small-town Canadian.”

There is also a lot of history here, too, for cinephiles and lovers of classic comedy: interjections by Netflix that nod to the old “Monty Python” sketches; the inclusion of the “Ironside” theme song; and even an effective Shrek cameo. Myers is at his best when he has something to (lovingly) mock — that’s what made “Austin Powers” so good. Clearly, the comedian has channeled some of that Man of Mystery fondness here, set-dressing much of the Pentaverate’s base like a ’60s-era James Bond film. The costumes are ridiculous and vivid. There’s a great mix of cheap and silly with vibrant and detailed throughout — although leaning more into the more artificial look might have helped amplify some of the comedy. 

By the time “The Pentaverate” episode 6 ended, I was a bit sad to see it go; in just about three hours of runtime, the comedy series had grown on me. Myers takes risks here, including some full-frontal male nudity. There’s also a real attempt to “do better” — despite the juvenile, potty humor. The series feels less sexist and more inclusive than his other notable works, and there’s a sense that Myers really wants to promote being nice and good. That’s not enough to elevate the comedy — there are so many jokes and gags here that just don’t work — but it’s a positive sign, regardless.