‘Uncouple’ review: Neil Patrick Harris stars in light-hearted drama on love, life, and acceptance

Neil Patrick Harris as Michael steals the show, offering a refreshing and enjoyable new look at normalizing gay relationships

Neil Patrick Harris as Michael steals the show, offering a refreshing and enjoyable new look at normalizing gay relationships

unpaired A light-hearted, engaging series about a newly single gay man in his late 40s who is fresh from a long-term relationship. created by sex and the CityDarren Star and veteran Jeffrey Richman, the series offers a refreshing look at modern-day dating, acceptance, love, and life.

The Netflix original series revolves around Michael, who is abandoned by his partner Colin after a 17-year relationship. Over the course of eight episodes, the series follows Michael’s journey from being shocked at the sudden departure of his lover to finally accepting his new life.

unpaired

Director: Andrew Fleming, Zoe R Cassavetes, Peter Lauer

Cast: Neil Patrick Harris, Tisha Campbell, Brooks Ashmanskas, Emerson Brooks, Marcia Gay Harden, Tuck Watkins

Number of Episodes: 8

Story: A man’s life is turned upside down after his partner moves out after 17 years

The plot is set in the first episode itself, where Colin tells Michael (a successful realtor in New York City) about his decision, just as the doors for the former’s surprise birthday party with Whitney Houston open. i will always love you playing in the background.

Primarily, Neil Patrick Harris as Michael stole the show with his charm. Michael is somewhat self-centered, as described in a couple’s therapy session; However, his hot temper and quick wit take the show forward in style. Tisha Campbell as Susan completely meets Harris in her journey, while also having a story of her own.

For Michael, the journey of self-discovery consists largely of character development. As someone who has stayed out of the dating game for almost two decades, the dating world has changed a lot.

From blaming himself for the break-up, to being drunk and physically hurt, to jeopardizing any new relationship that comes his way, Michael eventually grows into a man who Understands how to let go of the past and move on in your life. , After initially hating his ex-boyfriend, he eventually comes to terms with the reality and even considers being friends with his ex, perhaps later in life. Michael soon learns that it is not always possible to get answers to all the questions in life, and it is important to focus on and appreciate what we have, rather than cry over what has happened. For.

The series also highlights the importance of friendship, especially after a breakup. Unlike Michael – who has the constant support of his friends – is 70-year-old Claire (Marcia Gay Harden), who is also abandoned by her husband but has no friends to share her concerns with.

In recent times, depictions of LGBTQIA+ relationships have been seen in many shows and movies. Although, unpaired Moves away from the traditional story of gay couples facing trouble because of their sexual orientation and offers a fresh look at normalizing gay relationships, leading to a happy ending at the end. The show talks about how, like any heterosexual couple, homosexual partners also face problems like falling out of love, resultant separation etc.

unpaired Hints at several other plot points and issues as well, but doesn’t go too deep into them. Single motherhood is explored through the character of Susan, who is adventurous and unapologetic about her life choices. Claire, coming from a generation where gender fluidity did not even exist, is seen accepting her daughter who is non-binary. Another character who steals the scene is the female priest at Jonathan’s wedding.

At one point, you’d think the show could have had more depth. Also, around the fourth and fifth episodes, the story seems to be getting dull. Although it soon sets to reconnect you, the climax is definitely worth the wait as it leaves you wishing for the next season!

Uncapped is currently streaming on Netflix