Netflix’s new star-studded show is moving, messy and deserves your attention

The Four Seasons spoilers won’t be found in this review.

Originally an Alan Alda comedy from 1983 titled The Four Seasons, has been reimagined as a Netflix show by Tina Fey, featuring three married couples who take annual vacations together. Each season gets two episodes, but the earthy autumnal tones particularly resonate with this series.

Regardless if they’re lounging on the beach under the sun or celebrating New Year’s together, there’s an endearing familiarity among these six lifelong friends that envelops them, and us as well, in a welcoming blanket of friendship – much like slipping into a favorite sweater where everyone is intimately acquainted with one another.

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However, be aware that this may not seem so at first glance. There’s a lot more emotional turmoil yet to unfold, and it packs quite a punch due to the strong bonds shared by the friends and couples involved.

The source of the ensuing turmoil arises as Nick discloses his intention to part ways with Anne upon their return from the trip. Unbeknownst to him, she has been secretly arranging a heartfelt, highly visible vow renewal ceremony to mark their 25th wedding anniversary.

The outcome is a comedy that surprisingly delves deeper into drama than one might anticipate, considering Fey’s background as the originator of “30 Rock,” along with her collaborators, Lang Fisher and Tracey Wigfield, who are primarily recognized for their work on “Never Have I Ever” and the revamped “Saved By The Bell.

In every encounter and conversation, there’s an underlying bond that ties long-time friends together like they’re part of a close-knit family. This connection is evident, whether they’re playfully bantering with each other, preparing meals for the group, or experiencing awkward moments unintentionally revealing private areas.

Regarding this topic, “The Four Seasons” can be seen as equally a tribute to friendship as it is to matrimony. The characters, unlike those usually found in similar shows, are more mature, but this gives their relationship a sense of authenticity that makes the narrative seem surprisingly contemporary.

As a devoted viewer, I must say that while there are some similarities drawn between this new show and “White Lotus,” it stands out as a completely distinct entity. Both series do revolve around vacations gone awry and the ensuing chaos, but let me tell you, the level of pandemonium unfolding in this HBO resort far surpasses anything we’ve seen before.

Although these situations may not be as dramatic, they certainly carry significant weight. Witnessing empty-nesters grapple with their feelings or navigate life alone in middle age can evoke deep emotions (and still leave a bit of chaos), in a profoundly poignant manner. It’s enough to spark contemplation about why midlife concerns are often eclipsed by lighter, younger romances on the screen.

The interactions among these six characters offer numerous opportunities for high-stakes drama. The series cleverly explores various character combinations at different stages to keep audiences guessing. Moreover, it isn’t afraid to portray each character as flawed when the situation calls for it, reminding us that even the strongest bonds can falter, regardless of duration or intimacy.

In essence, what truly stands out is the acting. With fewer jokes and a greater emphasis on emotional moments, Tina Fey delves deeper than typical in her first leading role since 30 Rock.

As a gamer putting on my storyteller hat, here’s how I’d rephrase it: In this tale, I’m paired with Emmy-nominated Will Forte, portraying a seemingly steady couple. However, our stability is more of an illusion, crafted over time to conceal the chasms we haven’t dared to fill, preferring instead to smooth things over without truly addressing the deep-seated issues lurking beneath.

In this new character portrayal by Steve Carell, he employs his distinctive appeal in a more questionable yet identifiable part, playing the husband who replaces his wife with a younger version. However, you find yourself sympathizing with him as well, despite the emotional turmoil it causes Anne.

Kerri Kenney-Silver, another Emmy nominee, delivers a heartbreakingly brilliant and occasionally vengeful performance in her role without stirring unnecessary feelings of pity. Meanwhile, Erika Henningsen, who first gained fame as the breakout star of Mean Girls on Broadway, demonstrates that she’s more than just a replacement, infusing depth into what could have become a stereotypical portrayal.

In this adaptation, the main pair, Danny and Claude, who were straight in the original movie, have been reimagined as a dynamic, open-minded gay couple. Their relationship, free from stereotypical complications, is a breath of fresh air. Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, who also directs an episode, and playwright Marco Calvani bring warmth and charisma to the screen in a long-overdue portrayal of mature love among middle-aged gay men.

In this critique, the emphasis has primarily been on the dramatic aspects due to their heavier portrayal; however, you’ll find yourself chuckling here and there throughout the show, rather than having a full-blown laughing fit. Generally, this blend of humor works well for the series, but some jokes in the second-to-last episode detracted from crucial scenes that didn’t require any comedic relief.

It’s enticing to long for a bit more intensity in some of these larger scenes, but that’s not the purpose The Four Seasons has intended. After all, it’s not meant to be like The White Lotus, and it doesn’t need to aspire to be so.

Fey’s reimagining echoes an antique form of storytelling similar to when the original debuted. It’s a cozy series that isn’t shy about nudging you out of your comfort zone, leaving viewers chilled unexpectedly before wrapping them back in the familiar warmth that families, whether chosen or biological, can provide.

The Four Seasons is available on Netflix.

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2025-05-01 10:49