It’s often seen as unusual when a man and a woman form a close friendship without any romantic or sexual intentions. As adults, societal assumptions and complex dynamics make these Platonic Review relationships somewhat taboo. However, the Apple TV+ series “Platonic” fearlessly delves into this tricky topic, offering a refreshing and entertaining exploration of adult friendships with the another sex. In this review, we’ll discuss the series’ premise, its authentic interactions, exceptional performances, and its ability to challenge social norms.
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The Premise of “Platonic”
Co-created and directed by Nicholas Stoller, known for his comedic masterpieces like “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and “Neighbors,” “Platonic” revolves around Sylvia (Rose Byrne) and Will (Seth Rogen), former best friends who reconnect after a long separation. Sylvia, a wife and mother of three, discovers that Will has recently gone through a divorce. Encouraged by her husband Charlie (Luke Macfarlane), Sylvia takes the bold step of reaching out to Will. This sets the stage for an exploration of their complex relationship and the complications that arise.
Authentic Interactions and Conversations
One of the standout qualities of “Platonic” is its ability to capture authentic interactions and conversations between its characters. Authentic dialogue is an essential storytelling element, but it’s not always easy to achieve. The series excels in delivering top-tier dialogue that feels genuine, subtle, and devoid of unnecessary fluff. For example, the reunion between Will and Sylvia at a coffee shop is filled with awkward pauses and stumbles, conveying the dust that has settled on their long-lost friendship. Their attempts to reconnect highlight the challenges they face in rebuilding their rapport.
Rekindling the Friendship
Sylvia’s decision to reach out to Will opens the door to rekindling their friendship. Initially, Sylvia doubts whether Will would even want to hear from her, given the circumstances that led to their falling out. However, curiosity and a sense of nostalgia prompt Sylvia to take the plunge. This cautious approach adds depth to their journey, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged.
Awkwardness and Familiarity
As Sylvia and Will attempt to resurrect their friendship, they grapple with a mixture of awkwardness and familiarity. The once inseparable duo struggles to recapture the magic they shared during their 20-year friendship. Their conversations are filled with stuttering sentences and awkward pauses, reflecting the challenges of reintegrating someone into one’s life after a long absence. However, as the series progresses, it becomes clear that the foundation of their friendship remains intact, waiting to be rediscovered.
Chemistry between Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne
The success of “Platonic” heavily relies on the chemistry between its two lead actors, Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne. Fortunately, Rogen and Byrne possess an undeniable on-screen spark. Their previous collaborations in films like “Neighbors” have established a solid foundation for their chemistry. In “Platonic,” Rogen’s laid-back persona and “90s grunge clown” appearance perfectly complement Byrne’s flawless exterior and endearing quirks. The natural synergy between the two actors adds depth and believability to their characters’ relationship.
Exceptional Performances
Rogen and Byrne deliver exceptional performances throughout the series. They skillfully balance comedic moments with genuine displays of tenderness and vulnerability. Rogen, known for his trademark humor, showcases his acting range as he navigates a character in the midst of a midlife crisis. Byrne’s performance is reminiscent of her breakout role in “Bridesmaids,” displaying her mastery of physical comedy and her ability to convey a wide range of emotions. Together, Rogen and Byrne create a captivating dynamic that brings their characters to life.
Subverting Expectations
“Platonic” subverts expectations by avoiding the predictable will-they-won’t-they romantic trope often associated with male-female friendships. The series is unafraid to break away from this cliché, allowing Sylvia and Will’s friendship to remain purely platonic. Instead of positioning Sylvia’s husband, Charlie, as a typical obstacle to their friendship, the show develops his character in a way that garners sympathy and understanding. This approach adds depth to the narrative and makes the series more nuanced and relatable.
Memorable Supporting Characters
In addition to the compelling leads, Platonic Review introduces several memorable supporting characters. Charlie, Sylvia’s husband, is not merely a plot device but a fully realized character with depth and likability. Luke Macfarlane’s portrayal brings charisma and relatability to the role. Furthermore, Charlie’s best friend at the law firm, played by Guy Branum, adds another layer of chemistry and camaraderie. The ensemble cast enhances the overall viewing experience, making each character’s screen time memorable.
Byrne’s Standout Performance
Rose Byrne delivers one of her best performances since her breakthrough role in “Bridesmaids.” Her comedic timing and physicality shine in “Platonic,” as she effortlessly portrays Sylvia’s rollercoaster of emotions. Byrne’s facial expressions and physical comedy skills contribute to some of the series’ most hilarious moments. Her ability to make the audience laugh while evoking genuine empathy for her character’s journey is a testament to her talent as an actress.
Balancing Humor and Substance
While Platonic Review features moments of humor and silliness, it strikes a delicate balance with more substantive themes. The series doesn’t rely solely on crude humor or drug-related jokes, as is often associated with Seth Rogen’s previous work. Instead, the humor serves as a complement to the narrative, providing lightheartedness amidst the complexities of adult friendships. The show’s ability to blend humor and substance adds depth and relatability to the story, resonating with a wide range of viewers.
Exploring Taboos and Relationships
One of the standout aspects of “Platonic” is its exploration of a relationship that is often considered a social taboo. The series delves into the complexities of male-female friendships in adulthood, challenging societal assumptions and norms. By examining the intricacies of a platonic relationship, the show sheds light on the depth and benefits such connections can offer. “Platonic” presents a refreshing and honest portrayal of friendship, offering viewers a new perspective on this often-misunderstood bond.
Sum It Up!
Platonic Review is a refreshing and insightful exploration of adult friendships between male and female With a blend of humor, authenticity, and stellar performances by Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, the series tackles the complexities and challenges of rekindling a friendship after a long hiatus. By subverting expectations and avoiding tired clichés, “Platonic” presents a compelling narrative that celebrates the power and value of platonic relationships. Viewers are left with a renewed appreciation for the unique bonds that can form between friends, regardless of gender.
