In Beef, Netflix’s recent black comedy, two unfulfilled fortysomethings found meaning and escapism in their obsessive hatred for one another. Now a new series on Apple TV Plus offers a sunnier take on the story of an intense, unconventional relationship that jolts people out of mid-life stupor: the all-consuming friendship.
Platonic revolves around two old college buddies who reconcile after a falling out. In the years of estrangement Sylvia (Rose Byrne), a lawyer-turned-housewife, saw home become her world and her social circle shrink to school-run mums. Meanwhile, Will (Seth Rogen) became a cardigan-carrying member of the LA hipster scene as a brewmaster at a trendy bar he part owns.
Despite their diverging lifestyles, what they share (other than a past) is dissatisfaction with the present. Sylvia ostensibly reaches out to Will to support him through his divorce, but really she hopes he’ll inject some vitality into her content but compromised family-oriented existence. In turn, Will craves a close connection with someone who appreciates him for who he is, yet pushes him to do more.
Before long, the two are inseparable and codependent. They help one another arrive at major life choices and realisations, provide back-up in difficult confrontations and embark on a series of bizarre adventures: from stealing a lizard and shopping under the influence of horse tranquillisers to sabotaging Sylvia’s husband’s work conference. Unsurprisingly, the husband soon begins to feel sidelined by the other man.
While the show teasingly references When Harry Met Sally, it judiciously avoids forcing romance into an all-too-rare comedy about adult male-female friendship. Byrne and Rogen build an organic, sparky (and at times combustible) dynamic that feels devoid of uncomfortable sexual tension.
Their performances keep the momentum going in a show that doesn’t quite justify its 10-episode run. Sharp exchanges are often blunted by goofy, juvenile escapades. Sure, they want to recapture their youth, but as Sylvia points out, there’s also something to be said for having a better credit score than anyone at the club.
★★★☆☆
Episodes 1-3 on Apple TV Plus from May 24; new episodes released weekly
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