Let's talk about the latest romantic drama to hit our screens, Amazon's 'Every Year After'. This show, inspired by Carley Fortune's novel, promises a heart-wrenching tale of young love and heartbreak, but does it deliver? Personally, I think it's a mixed bag, leaving me with more questions than answers.
The Story of Unrequited Love
'Every Year After' introduces us to Percy Fraser, a 28-year-old with a penchant for writing obituaries and a heart that's never quite healed from her teenage heartbreak. The story revolves around Percy's return to her childhood summer town, Barry's Bay, after the death of Sue, a maternal figure in her life and the mother of her ex-boyfriend, Sam Florek. From the get-go, we're thrown into a web of romantic misery and nostalgia.
What makes this premise intriguing is the exploration of how a single event, a teenage breakup, can shape an entire life. It's a relatable concept, especially for those who've experienced the all-consuming nature of young love. However, as the show progresses, it seems to lose sight of its potential, becoming a tedious cycle of emotional turmoil.
A Patchwork of Clichés
Creators Amy Harris and Leila Gerstein have crafted a narrative that feels like a collage of familiar romantic tropes. We've seen the will-they-won't-they dynamic, the jealous games, and the endless breakups and makeups before. What's missing is the freshness and authenticity that could elevate these tropes into something captivating.
The young leads, played by Juliette Hawk and Blue Clarke, bring a certain charm to the early years of Percy and Sam's relationship. However, as the story transitions into their adolescence and adulthood, the performances fall flat. Sadie Soverall's perpetually pouty portrayal of Percy fails to capture the depth of her character's emotional journey, and Matt Cornett's Sam feels more like a caricature of a brooding teen heartthrob.
Toxicity Unaddressed
One of the most frustrating aspects of 'Every Year After' is its failure to acknowledge the toxicity of Percy and Sam's relationship. The show seems to romanticize their inability to move on, presenting it as a tragic, yet beautiful, struggle. This is a dangerous narrative, especially when it's accompanied by a melancholy soundtrack that encourages viewers to find this toxicity moving.
In contrast, the supporting characters offer a breath of fresh air. Aurora Perrineau's Chantal evolves from a thankless best friend role into a more complex character, finding solace with the thoughtful Jordy (Joseph Chiu). Abigail Cowen's Delilah also shines as her character navigates marital troubles, providing some much-needed levity.
Unanswered Questions and Underdeveloped Details
The show is riddled with logical inconsistencies and underdeveloped plot points. Why is Sue the only parent figure in Percy's life? Why are the leads so obsessed with each other when their relationship seems to bring more pain than joy? These questions go unanswered, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction.
A Missed Opportunity
'Every Year After' had the potential to be a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of teenage heartbreak on adulthood. However, it falls short, becoming a dull and dour portrayal of romantic misery. The show's focus on its leads' toxic relationship dynamics overshadows the potential for deeper character development and a more nuanced portrayal of love and loss.
In conclusion, while 'Every Year After' may appeal to those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane, it fails to offer a compelling narrative or memorable characters. It's a reminder that sometimes, the magic of a summer romance is better left in the past.
