ABC’s ‘Galavant’ premiere review: More Timothy Omundson, please!

There are many reasons to watch ABC’s “Galavant,” but we admit that there were a few simple things that really drew us into the show above all else: The musical / comedy factor, the immediate feeling that this reminded us of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” and also the presence of Timothy Omundson. “Psych” is one of our favorite TV shows out there, so any chance to get to see him do something more to show off his considerable talents is something we’re going to sign off on.

The moment that he and his newfound beard started singing here, we were for the most part game. “Galavant” does have quite a bit going on beyond him as the villain, though: It is a hero story about a man who eventually seeks redemption after losing much of what he loves. There is a transcendent quality about the central themes here, and that makes it easier to cheer for some of the characters.

Then, you have the musical numbers, which are the most part tremendous. Some are more successful than others, but the theme has to be one of the catchiest things that we’ve heard about all year. The pacing could also be a little bit better; it starts with a flourish, but then takes a while before you feel that same level of excitement again.

In the end, the smartest thing ABC may be doing is airing these episodes back to back, at least in that it helps to ensure that viewers get hooked quick. While it’s not at “classic” level yet, “Galavant” did enough in its pilot to convince us that it’s worth sticking with; it’s funny, well-acted, and is completely different from anything else on TV. Really, we just hope that it gets the chance to have a longer season at some point in the future. Grade: B+.

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