Netflix’s The Four Seasons: A Heartwarming, Refreshing Choice Beyond The White Lotus
In a TV industry overflowing with dark satire, psychological breakdowns, and the occasional eerie body, Netflix has delivered a delightful breath of fresh air with its newest comedy series, The Four Seasons. Created by and featuring comedy legend Tina Fey, the show presents a heartfelt, clever, and emotionally rich perspective on friendship, aging, and the intricacies of longstanding relationships — all against the stunning backdrop of seasonal retreats.
A Contemporary Spin on a Classic
The Four Seasons draws inspiration from Alan Alda’s 1981 romantic comedy of the same name, and while it keeps the essential premise — a group of longtime friends confronting life’s transitions during seasonal getaways — the Netflix version refreshes the narrative with a contemporary touch and a remarkable cast. Alongside Fey, the series features Steve Carell, Will Forte, Colman Domingo, Marco Calvani, Erika Henningsen, and Kerri Kenney-Silver.
The storyline revolves around three couples: Kate (Fey) and Jack (Forte), Nick (Carell) and Anne (Kenney-Silver), and Danny (Domingo) and Claude (Calvani). Their tradition of vacationing together is upended when Nick suddenly ends his marriage and introduces his much younger girlfriend, Ginny (Henningsen), to the group. What ensues is a series of emotionally charged yet comedic moments that delve into how relationships evolve — or disintegrate — over time.
A Softer, More Compassionate Vacation Drama
Although comparisons to HBO’s The White Lotus are unavoidable, The Four Seasons distinguishes itself through its tone and purpose. While The White Lotus revels in sharp satire, social critique, and shocking twists, The Four Seasons embraces empathy, character growth, and the subtle dramas of real life. There are no homicides, no surreal monologues, and no exaggerated portrayals of the affluent. Instead, viewers are offered a grounded, humane exploration of friendship and midlife change.
Each episode of the series aligns with a different season, cleverly reflecting the emotional journeys of the characters. This framework not only adds visual and thematic variety but also emphasizes the show’s core message: like the seasons, people transform — sometimes gradually, sometimes rapidly, but always inevitably.
A Chemistry-Filled Ensemble
Among the show’s remarkable attributes is the undeniable chemistry shared by its cast. Steve Carell has characterized the ensemble’s dynamic as “lived-in,” and it’s evident. The relationships feel genuine, with a richness that conveys years of shared experiences, private laughs, and unexpressed tensions. Tina Fey and Will Forte infuse a delightful awkwardness into their pairing, while Colman Domingo and Marco Calvani offer a nuanced depiction of a couple facing their own pivotal moment.
Even the potentially clichéd role of Ginny, the younger girlfriend, is approached with unexpected sensitivity. Instead of being a flat disruptor, she’s depicted as a fully developed individual — relatable, kind, and just as uncertain of her role in the group as anyone else.
A Series That Honors the Everyday
What truly sets The Four Seasons apart is its celebration of the ordinary. In an age where critically acclaimed TV often equates quality with shock factor, this series dares to extract drama from the everyday. It’s about the gradual build-up of resentment, the simple joys of companionship, and the bittersweet realization that even the most steadfast friendships must adapt or fade.
The series’ 30-minute episodes are concise and breezy, making it an effortless binge. However, don’t let the short runtime deceive you — there’s profound emotional depth here, and plenty of it. Viewers have commended the show for its truthful depiction of aging, evolving relationships, and the subtle ways people drift apart or reunite.
Response from Critics and Audiences
Since its launch, The Four Seasons has rapidly ascended to the top of Netflix’s U.S. charts, resonating with viewers seeking something more grounded and heartfelt. Critics have praised the show for its sharp writing, impressive performances, and refreshing tone. On social media and platforms like Reddit, viewers have expressed surprise and joy at the show’s emotional nuance and comedic skill.
“It wasn’t what I expected,” one Reddit user commented. “It was, however, a very intriguing look at aging and how relationships (of all kinds) evolve and shift over time. It was really good.”
Final Reflections
The Four Seasons is a rare treasure in today’s television landscape — a show that finds significance in the mundane and humor in the heartbreak. It’s a series that doesn’t depend on shock or spectacle, but rather trusts its characters, its cast, and its audience to recognize the beauty of a story well told.
Whether you’re a fan of Tina Fey’s trademark wit, Steve Carell’s subtle charm, or simply in search of a show that feels like a comforting embrace after a trying day, The Four Seasons is definitely worth watching. It’s a
