The Four Seasons Review: Despite Some Tonal Messiness, I Was Still Invested In Netflix’s Perfectly Cast Comedy Remake

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Even as the world keeps evolving, one idea that remains constant is that marriage requires effort. Just like how “The Four Seasons,” initially adapted for the screen by Alan Alda in 1981 and later reimagined for a 2025 audience, manages to preserve many classic storylines while incorporating a fresh, contemporary twist, this age-old challenge does too. It’s likely that fans of the original film might raise an eyebrow at the revised version, but with such a talented ensemble cast, it’s tough not to enjoy the ride!

Similar to the initial movie, Netflix’s “The Four Seasons,” produced by Tina Fey, Lang Fisher, and Tracy Wigfield, revolves around three sets of friends. We have Kate (portrayed by Fey), a woman known for her harsh criticism, and her more laid-back spouse Jack (Will Forte). Then there’s Anne (Kerri Kenney-Silver) and Nick (Steve Carell), a man grappling with midlife issues. Completing the group are Danny (Colman Domingo) and his partner Claude (Marco Calvani), who is quite expressive emotionally. Each season, they embark on a journey of some sort, aiming to escape everyday stresses and reconnect with their loved ones.

Indeed, just like the TV series HBO’s “The White Lotus” demonstrates, holidays can sometimes intensify conflicts rather than alleviating them. This is particularly true when a significant announcement is made, such as Nick informing Jack and Danny during their spring getaway to a lakeside house that he intends to leave Anne. The timing of this revelation, which happens on their 25th anniversary, adds an extra layer of complexity, making it challenging for “The Four Seasons” to maintain its delicate balance of tone.

The Four Seasons Tries To Put Its Own Spin On Humorous Martial Strife

It Doesn’t Always Work, But Still Has Its Own Charm

Each season consists of four episodes, with every season featuring two episodes. A captivating title card is used to signify the progression of time. The unique journeys undertaken by the characters are not only distinguished by the changing seasons but also due to their individual experiences. Nick’s choice to leave Anne significantly alters the group dynamics, a change that becomes even more apparent when he begins dating Ginny (played by Erika Henningsen). As a result, the remaining couples grapple with the imperfections in their own relationships as they struggle to navigate the complexities of their feelings towards Nick and Anne.

In “The Four Seasons,” Alda’s film serves as a solid foundation for its narrative structure, with Alda making a delightful appearance in episode 2. However, there’s at least one significant twist that alters the course of the story by the finale, with both positive and negative consequences. Fey, Fisher, and Wigfield strive to add fresh perspectives by exploring modern relationships. This is evident through the introduction of a gay couple who are also in an open marriage, and the contrasting dynamics between Nick and Ginny’s relationship, which provides ample opportunities for generational gap jokes.

Some of these jokes miss the mark; they feel more like repetitive rehashes of familiar stories instead. Moreover, The Four Seasons sometimes stumbles in its attempt to blend marital squabbles with humor, particularly during the winter segment where a sudden shift to a joke falls flat. Despite this, the series maintains agility and keeps audiences engaged, even when we’re cringing, mostly thanks to its talented cast.

It All Hinges On The Characters

The Four Seasons Wouldn’t Work Without Them

As a movie enthusiast, I couldn’t help but feel confident that a film starring heavyweights like Carell, Fey, and Domingo wouldn’t entirely miss its mark – “The Four Seasons” certainly had the potential to shine. The cast’s effortless camaraderie is particularly evident between Fey and Domingo, who, as the chatty duo, create a unique dynamic that keeps you engaged. Carell, as the seemingly unsympathetic Nick, takes on the most challenging role, but he manages to breathe vulnerability and earnestness into the character, making us still hope for Nick’s success, even when it feels like he’s chasing his lost youth.

In The Four Seasons, every character has their moment to stand out, but special recognition should be given to Henningsen for avoiding turning Ginny into a stereotype. This, arguably, is one of the show’s most compelling aspects: None of the characters are unfairly maligned. Each character has flaws and often errs, yet they are all treated with kindness.

This piece subtly yet strongly conveys that nobody must be defined by their flaws, as even imperfect individuals can still be loved. Additionally, it’s not uncommon to love someone while feeling the urge to exasperate them every now and then. Despite its simplicity, The Four Seasons offers enjoyable viewing thanks to its stellar cast. Regardless of how wretched and quarrelsome the characters may be, I found myself eagerly waiting to see if they would eventually find resolution.

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2025-05-01 10:07