Netflix’s "The Four Seasons": A Reimagined Classic Divides Critics

Netflix has unveiled its latest offering, a dramedy titled "The Four Seasons," a modern reimagining of the beloved 1981 film of the same name. Created by the comedic powerhouse trio of Tina Fey, Lang Fisher, and Tracey Wigfield, the series boasts a star-studded cast and promises a deeper exploration of the themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of long-term relationships. However, early reviews paint a picture of a show that is both promising and problematic, leaving audiences to decide whether it captures the magic of the original or falls short of expectations.

Released on May 1st, "The Four Seasons" follows the lives of six married friends who have established a tradition of embarking on quarterly weekend getaways together. These carefully curated trips, designed to foster connection and escape the everyday, become the backdrop for unfolding dramas when one of the couples decides to call it quits. As old tensions resurface and new conflicts ignite, the bonds of friendship and marriage are tested, forcing the characters to confront their own vulnerabilities and the ever-evolving nature of their relationships.

Tina Fey, speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, expressed her long-standing affection for the original film and the potential she saw in expanding its narrative into a series format. "I’ve always loved this movie since I was a kid, and I do think that a series like this where you can really just expand things and take your time a little bit more felt like a perfect way to hang out with these characters a little bit longer," she explained. This desire to delve deeper into the lives of the characters and explore their dynamics with greater nuance seems to be the driving force behind the adaptation.

The first season of "The Four Seasons" comprises eight episodes, all of which are now available for streaming on Netflix. The premiere occurred on May 1st at 3 a.m. EDT, allowing eager viewers to binge-watch the entire season at their leisure. The series features a cast led by Tina Fey and Erika Henningsen, whose real-life friendship reportedly adds a layer of authenticity to their on-screen chemistry. While the cast is undoubtedly talented, the success of the series hinges on whether the writing and character development can match their performances.

Early critical reception to "The Four Seasons" has been mixed, with reviewers offering contrasting perspectives on the show’s strengths and weaknesses. Kelly Lawler, TV critic for USA TODAY, delivered a scathing assessment, deeming the series "surface-level at best, unfunny and dull at worst." She contends that the show fails to capitalize on its promising premise and ultimately misses the mark, describing it as "a big miss when it should have been an easy home run." Lawler’s review suggests that the series lacks the depth and comedic spark necessary to engage viewers effectively.

In contrast, The Guardian offers a more positive appraisal, praising the show’s humor and its ability to capture the complexities of long-term relationships. The reviewer highlights the presence of "properly funny lines, rooted in properly middle-aged experience," suggesting that the show resonates with viewers who have experienced the challenges and rewards of enduring friendships and marriages. Furthermore, The Guardian notes that the series "captures the warm, weary affection for life and each other that only old friends and enduring couples really know," indicating that the show offers a relatable and emotionally resonant portrayal of mature relationships.

The Hollywood Reporter adopts a more nuanced stance, acknowledging both the merits and shortcomings of the miniseries. While the reviewer concedes that the show features "some pleasantly sweet moments and some poignant ones," they argue that "few of them land with much weight since the characters are so thin." This criticism points to a potential flaw in the character development, suggesting that the series may prioritize plot over substance, resulting in characters that are underdeveloped and difficult to connect with on a deeper level.

Adding to the complexity of the critical landscape, "The Four Seasons" currently boasts a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, it is crucial to note that this score is based on a limited number of reviews and may not accurately reflect the overall reception of the show as more reviews are published. The disparity between the Rotten Tomatoes score and the individual reviews highlights the subjective nature of criticism and underscores the importance of considering a wide range of opinions before forming a judgment.

Ultimately, the success of "The Four Seasons" will depend on its ability to connect with viewers on an emotional level and deliver a compelling narrative that resonates with their own experiences. While some critics have praised the show’s humor and its portrayal of mature relationships, others have criticized its lack of depth and its underdeveloped characters. As viewers embark on their own journey through the eight episodes of the series, they will have the opportunity to decide for themselves whether "The Four Seasons" is a worthy reimagining of the classic film or a disappointing misstep.

Whether you find yourself laughing along with the characters, cringing at their missteps, or simply enjoying the familiar comfort of a well-worn trope, "The Four Seasons" promises to be a conversation starter, prompting viewers to reflect on their own relationships and the ever-changing landscape of love and friendship. The show’s mixed reviews and its exploration of relatable themes ensure that it will continue to generate discussion and debate as it finds its audience on Netflix.