Powerless (on NBC) takes place in the DC Universe. This action comedy follows Emily Locke (Vanessa Hudgens) and the department of research at Wayne Industries where they invent new products to protect the ordinary humans who are often the victims in the battles between villains and heroes. Powerless is clever and even makes a few references to the DC movies. The new sitcom is a nice break from the other superhero shows out there that are all about the big stars, the larger than life personalities, the heroes and villains. The show really gives the audience an inside look at what it’s like to be an average citizen in a city full of superhero battles that sometimes interfere with their everyday lives.
The Santa Clarita Diet (on Netflix) follows married couple Sheila (Drew Barrymore) and Joel (Timothy Olyphant) who are real estate agents in Santa Clarita, California. The couple’s lives take a dark turn after Sheila goes through a transformation that causes her to hunger for human flesh. Although the concept of zombies is a bit overdone the show adds comedy to the gruesomeness that is zombies. The show has its gory moments but the cleverness of the show occurs when the family tries to not attract attention to themselves in their suburban neighborhood.
Each of these comedies are brilliant in their own way, each offering a unique setup that drives the humor. Powerless combines superheroes and comedy while the Santa Clarita Diet does the same but with zombies. Although each show had its flaws, they are both entertaining shows. Question is which one to watch? If you are a fan of horror, then the Santa Clarita Diet is for you, and even if you are not the shows comedic elements balance out with the gruesomeness of the show. Powerless is for fans and nonfans of superheroes alike. Audiences don’t have to be knowledgeable of DC heroes because it’s focus is on the everyday citizens. Either way these two shows are equally entertaining and hilarious in their own way. The biggest difference comes in the form of delivery. The Santa Clarita Diet is available in full on Netflix now, while Powerless is being released in a traditional television format.