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Is Netflix's "The Four Seasons" Worth Your Time? A Critical Look
Netflix's latest offering, "The Four Seasons," a star-studded adaptation of the 1981 film, promised a blend of humor and heartfelt drama. With Tina Fey at the helm and a cast including Steve Carell, Colman Domingo, and Will Forte, expectations were high. But does this breezy dramedy live up to the hype, or does it fall flat like a deflated beach ball? Let's dive in.
A Cast of All-Stars, A Story That Falters
The premise is promising: three couples, decades-long friends, reunite for seasonal getaways. Their comfortable routines are shaken when one couple splits, unraveling unspoken tensions and long-simmering resentments. This setup is ripe for exploration – think "The White Lotus" meets a more subdued "Friends from College." Yet, "The Four Seasons" misses the mark.
- Lack of Depth: The characters, despite the impressive actors portraying them, remain frustratingly shallow. They circle around the same issues – dying marriages, midlife crises, new relationships – without any meaningful growth or self-discovery. They feel like emotional mannequins, beautifully dressed but devoid of interior life.
- Missing Chemistry: The palpable lack of chemistry between the ensemble cast further weakens the series. Moments of brilliance, primarily those involving Colman Domingo's nuanced performance, only highlight the disconnect among the rest of the group.
- Missed Opportunity: The show hints at profound conflicts—betrayal, resentment, illness—but never fully explores them. The potential for poignancy and comedic brilliance is squandered in a sea of lukewarm archetypes.
Unlike "The White Lotus," which revels in the messy, self-aware dysfunction of its characters, "The Four Seasons" seems unsure of its identity. It oscillates between earnest dramedy and a breezy vacation sitcom, resulting in a frustratingly unfocused narrative.
A Look at the Positives (Yes, There Are Some!)
While the overall execution falls short, there are glimmers of what could have been. The series boasts beautiful scenery, capturing the essence of each season beautifully. The show also tackles relatable themes of aging, changing relationships, and the complexities of long-term commitments. The performances of individual actors – especially Colman Domingo – often shine.
- Alan Alda's Cameo: A charming cameo by Alan Alda, the star of the original film, adds a nostalgic touch and provides some genuinely heartwarming moments.
- Relatable Themes: The struggles of middle-aged couples facing midlife crises and shifting relationships resonate with a broad audience.
Final Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
"The Four Seasons," despite its stellar cast and promising premise, ultimately falls short of expectations. The lack of emotional depth, underdeveloped characters, and inconsistent tone prevent it from reaching its full potential. While there are moments of charm and wit, they aren't enough to salvage a series that ultimately feels forgettable. Unless you're a die-hard fan of the original film or simply crave a visually appealing but emotionally shallow vacation-themed show, you might be better off skipping this one.
Rating: 5/10
