When the series premiered in July, 'Reno' looked like a one- or two-joke stunt, a smartly sustained 'Saturday Night Live' sketch. ... As this series has evolved, its format has proven remarkably expansive and emotionally rich, using parodic elements to explore these characters and place them precisely in a social environment.

Outrageous. ... Thanks to inspired editing, it all hangs together. [14 Jul 2003]

Often hilarious. [23 Jul 2003]

The opening episode sometimes feels like a "Mad TV" sketch that's going on too long, and that doesn't bode well for the long haul. But that's not to say there's not plenty to laugh at - and even admire - in Wednesday's deadpan debut. [20 Jul 2003]

Has some funny moments and shows promise it might improve, but early episodes are dragged down by lulls, redundancies and the fact that this isn't exactly fresh fodder.

So aggressive is RENO 911!'s low-budget affect (not to mention its inconsistent pace and sometimes flat humor) that Cops looks positively polished by comparison. ... Still, and especially in its improvisational moments, RENO 911! offers occasionally engaging spontaneity.

Possibly the least funny thing on TV. [23 Jul 2003]