User Reviews

What a pleasant surprise this was. Really, the only issues I see is macro plotting and pacing, which, at the outset, make it feel like it's spinning its wheels a bit too much. Once it does though, it's a force. It is subversive of genre in many ways. The acting is great (Larson is perfect casting especially) . It's unpredictable, thematically cogent, and gets messaging right- something tv shows rarely get right. Usually they beat you over the head with it or else have little to no point at all.

Like all fiction, of any medium, it has a lot to say about many things, and in doing so, has a quality of elegance about it.

So incredibly refreshing. No blood, no guts, no shoot-outs, no bombs, no high-speed car chases, no gratuitous violence or sex, just sheer entertainment. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who was involved in bringing this to the TV screen.

Brie Larson is superb. In fact, the entire cast is spot on and contributes so much to bringing this show to life. Sets are great and the whole feel of the series takes one back to what I imagine was California way back then.

Not being American, I hope that the warm interracial connections depicted were really like that - if not viewers should watch and learn and embrace. Oh, and I just love six-thirty!

If truth be told I have never been a fan of Brie Larson, however watching Lessons in Chemistry has given me a new take on the actress and I absolutely adore her as Elizabeth Zott. The series follows Elizabeth trying to make her name in science in the 1950's in a completely male dominated world. It ends up with her doing science through a cooking show on television.

Larson plays Zott perfectly. Her almost robotic quality in so captivating.

I have to say that I am completely hooked on the storyline and invested in the characters.

Definitely give this series a chance. I am sure you will love it as much as I do.

Ten stars is, for this show, like giving a one to any other show. Brie Larsen is wonderfully captivating from the first scene to the last - ever a remarkable performance. The writing and direction likewise tug the viewer from scenecto scene, episode to episode. For we who have not read the book, there is little or no foreshadowing - the slight predictability after episode 4 of one major subplot takes us to a very unexpected conclusion. The supporting cast fill their characters with believable behavior and engaging conflicts carrying forward the several threads. Pacing, direction, costumes, color light are all done to perfection.

The mark of a really good show is it entertains. A great show moves our feelings and thoughts to our own lives, drawing out our empathy for the characters and connecting our own experiences. A great show helps us see something about our own lives, threads of connections we may not have known were there until we looked back and saw the pattern, the tapestry that began with a single chance change in our lives. Lessons in Chemistry is such a show for me, and I imagine it will speak to most others as well.

The worst thing one can say about season 1 of Lessons in Chemistry is the show ends with seemingly nowhere to go forward. But as Elizabeth, Brie's character tells us, change is the only constant. We may have great expectations there will be a new chapter, but if there is not, the show as is leaves us richer.

I don't really write reviews, but In case of Lessons in Chemistry, I feel like I need to write one. This show is amazing, it's smart, it's funny, it's inspiring and it's beautiful.

My favorite part is the connection between Elizabeth and her daughter. It's so nice to see such an adult and honest relationship. I'm not sure it's possible to raise a kid like this in real life, but It definitely sounds amazing.

Elizabeth is really an inspiring character with all her knowledge about health and life and her values about family and friendships. She somehow seems to know it all.

I recommend this show to everyone who wants to soo some love, have some laughs, see some struggles and most importantly, get some motivation to life a little bit better life.

This 8-episode series gets a 10/10 from me. It's one of the best adaptations of a novel that I've ever seen -- meticulous rendering of society in the 1950's/60's with all its high and lows and the feel of transtion into a new era struggling to be born. I read the book by Bonnie Garmus before seeing this, and although I guess the true purists won't like some of the choices made in translation to the screen, I will just say ignore that. The series has to stand on its own, and it does -- spectacularly. The book is a good thing, and so is this.

Some parts of the book, like Elizabeth's time as a team rower, are there but de-emphasized, and other parts, like neighbor Harriet and her deep involvement in civil rights, are brought to the forefront. The episode on Elizabeth's rescue dog Six Thirty is wonderful (and I do NOT care that the golden-doodle breed didn't exist then -- the dog is utterly charming and fits perfectly into the narrative). Overall, though some scene-to-scene transitions feel choppy I think that's because they are trying, and by and large succeeding, at getting a lot of material in and showing how multifaceted Elizabeth's life becomes with its ups and downs and surprises. It's trying to illustrate a whole society-as-it-was and do it with enough depth that it's a real, living, time and place. Every bit of the story is engaging and after every episode I really wanted to see the next one and resented that I had to wait a week.

The cast? It's a terrific ensemble, but above all it rests on Brie Larson's shoulders. I think this is a role that genuinely suits her more than (say) Captain Marvel does -- Elizabeth Zott is cerebral, feisty, confident yet vulnerable, open yet frosty, loving yet prickly -- a challenging mix of characteristics that Larson plays compellingly. After having read the book and formed my own impression of Elizabeth, I can't think of any actress who would have done it better. Alice Halsey as young daughter Madeline is great at being a quite unselfconscious chip off the block -- so like her mother and yet neither of them quite realize it. Aja Naomi King as Harriet, Lewis Pullman as Calvin, Kevin Sussman as Walter Pine, and lots of others are just fine.

The messages if any? In no particular order what I saw was (a) life throws you curves, (b) misfits can heal each other, (c) hold on to your code when faced with oppression and fight back with integrity.

And I finally realized who Brie Larson reminds me of, looking at the 1950's hairstyles and clothing in this series: Grace Kelly, of course. If they ever decide to do a biopic of Kelly, the choice of actress for the title role is obvious.

What an amazing show. I've throughly enjoyed the drama and the romance aspects of it. The added bonus of a comedic element rounds this show off to a ten for me.

The writing, staging, music, casting and acting is superb. I really felt connected to the story, was engaged throughout.

The shocking twist that comes early almost made me give up on the show but I'm glad I got past it and saw this beautiful story unfold.

It doesn't shy away from the social issues of misogyny, sexism and racism but instead tackles it gracefully and without concern for, necessary, discomfort.

The last episode had me in tears, wishing for more but satisfied with what was delivered. A must watch, and a must rewatch in a year or so. Beautiful.

Lessons in Chemistry review

What an exceptionally written show with an exceptional cast; exceptionally acted, directed and produced on every level. Wow! Just wow! It has been a long time since I have seen anything that good. It moved me, made me think, made me fall in love with characters and made me mourn the loss of them and the end of the show when it was done. Everything about the show was perfect down to the costumes and set design. The characters were real and intelligent and the women especially were strong and smart without beating you over the head with it. The relationships were refreshingly close and real and never stooped to cliche tropes so often seen in today's productions. I have recommended this show to everyone and will continue to do so. It's like finishing a great book. You hold it in your hands and feel satisfied to have visited in that world and sad that your time there is over. Whoever decided to pick this up and produce it - THANK YOU! Worth every dime of an Apple+ subscription.

I had no idea what this series was about, except the premis. I am now into episode 4 and had to make a comment.

Who ever came up with this idea deserves an award, as does the entire show.

This is a concept that no one ever came across until now, and it works.

I won't mention too much because, it may spoil the viewing, and some depicts what I hate. The abuse of women on many levels, and sexual assault.

I'm a man, and I'm ashamed to be called man at times, because of what has been depicted. In this series, and other prodcutions.

Watch this series, I find it fascinating, interesting, and informative. I know this line might appear to be mysoginistic, it's not.

I detest abuse of anyone, male or female, in any way shape or form however; abuse of women is prelevant. I admire ALL actresses who allow themselves to be portrayed naked. Very few men are so accommodating.

The only series to beat this in recent times is, "This Is Us", and most people know how good this series was. It covered a multitude and so does Lessons. It is different but, it is also the same. It covers humanity, something this world needs at the moment.

One of the biggest surprises for me this year is this gem of a show. Brie Larson is one of the greatest actresses alive today which she has shown over and over again, and we also know that she can carry the story on her own. What we did not know was the rest of the cast also are brilliant, and how compelling their characters and the story would be. The writing is amazing, the dialogue could perhaps use a bit more era authenticity, but is mostly spot on.

The small political innuendoes are greatly handled without taking it too far. I saw a few commentators complain, but please; go back to the 1950s as a woman and try to work in a field like chemistry - you will immediately realise that this show is probably even undercutting it. Besides it is only one main prop for the story, we see very little of it otherwise.

Instead this is more about the characters, and also the chemistry which make it very interesting to watch. This is so well made, and so well produced with such great acting I would say this might be the best TV show of the year. That is how good it is.

A weak 9/10. This is not perfect, and I noticed a few misses, and the language could use more era style, but otherwise this is just Brielliant.

I have enjoyed "Lessons in Chemistry" although I was occasionally irritated by the obviousness of the messaging.

The acting and characters are quite good with Brie Larsen playing against her Marvel type. A good performance. Derek Cecil is always watchable. The story is clear and has some elements of suspense.

Unlike Mad Men or Mrs Maisel, the historical accuracy is lacking. Few people are shown smoking at a time when that works canteen would have been a fog. For 1951 the idea of running for fitness was not unknown as suggested in the show. The idea that DNA was "a passing fad" was stupid since its existence (but not its structure) had been known since late 19th century.

The hearing scenes where a prosperous black neighbourhood was fighting a road project was laboured. The other side showing smart lawyers might have brought that part to life. As was the sexism in the workplace HR scenes. This could have been a bit less pantomime. The "baddies" really needed capes and twirling moustaches.

Some mention has been made of the dog. Yes it was very cringey. But there wasn't much.

Although entertaining there were some strong elements of boosterism. That is making a success through your own efforts. Whereas much of Zot's success was written as pure luck in the script.

A gem of a series. I still can't believe how tremendously good it was. Started watching and was blown away. Nearly everything is impeccable in it and for the first time, I praise Brie Larson's acting, kudos Brie, I'm so happy that you were finally given a memorable role that you can be proud of. One of the best of your underrated career, if not the best.

After having watched 'Chuck' in 2019 that forever changed my life, that's the second stellar production that has and will have an everlasting impact on my life for the better. After a long while, the only series that made me emotional in nearly every episode and wet my eyes with droplets of tears.

103 reviews are way too low and I sincerely hope that more people get drawn to its brilliancy and have their lives changed for the better.

A special recognition to Alice Halsey (Madeline) who just shone and irradiated energy and wittiness like powerful Gamma rays. Wish her utmost success and happiness. Also, I so loved their dog. So smart and gentle. Incredible.

'Lessons in Chemistry' deserves to win multitude of awards brought in by a giant truck.

• Screenplay/storyline/plots: 8.5
• Development: 9.5
• Realism: 9
• Entertainment: 9.5
• Acting: 8.5
• Filming/photography/cinematography: 9.5
• VFX: 9
• Music/score/sound: 8.5
• Depth: 8.5
• Logic: 7.5
• Flow: 9
• Drama: 8
• Ending: 7.5.

Some shows exist only to make you feel good and this is one, a story with real heart. Beautifully written and played by the whole cast with Brie Larson excelling as the main character Elizabeth Zott. A show about cooking, about life, about love and relationships all pulled together through chemistry it runs the full gamut of emotions. It will challenge you, it will make you laugh at times and at times it will pull on your heartstrings. The show does not miss a beat with each episode consistently good as more is revealed and Elizabeth Zott grows through her experiences.

Sometimes with shows like this it can become overly sentimental but this show avoids that pitfall. All the characters and situations are believable and honourable mention to Alice Halsey that plays the gifted daughter Madeleine. Too often children are written as saccharine cute or so smart and precocious as to be annoying. This is another aspect that the show gets right. Madeleine is gifted, and Elizabeth has to find her a school that will challenge her enough to prevent her from becoming bored. The relationship between mother and daughter is played so beautifully and naturally it was one of the highlights for me.

Plus, as an added bonus we get a lovable dog that's ever present. In one episode we get a narration from the dogs point of view that also avoids falling into any traps and is just as important to the story as the other episodes, acting only to add more layers onto the 'lasagne'. The writing and direction is excellent.

I really enjoyed this and was left with a warm feeling of satisfaction at its conclusion.

I have not enjoyed a series this much in a very long time. The actors have amazing chemistry (excuse the pun), the script is extremely well-written, and I hang on each and every minute.

What captured me so quickly was how immediately you can empathize. The storyline as well as the characters are unconventional yet deeply moving. Each episode masterfully blends humor and drama, creating a unique viewing experience that resonates on a personal level. The cinematography and soundtrack further enhance the mood, immersing you completely in the story's world.

The pacing is perfect, ensuring that no episode feels too rushed or too slow. It's a rare find in today's TV landscape, where the depth of characters and the cleverness of the plot come together so seamlessly. This series is not just a show; it's an emotional journey that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Finally an empathetic portrait of what is being a woman without ostentation of the condition but a proactive view of feminism as it should be nowadays as well. In a society based almost entirely on self-absorption and individualism - like it is ours - Elizabeth is the example we need to have. First to let understand on an experiencial base what is systemic discrimination to everybody, men as well, and second because in order to approach and resolve a situation you need to respond with rationality and not a self-centered complaining attitude. It seems a miracle today. Once again we see all the power of storytelling that comes from a novel and limit the commercial need of modern television. This is TV history in the making.

Go with the positive reviews. The naysayers are wrong. One person criticizes differences from the book. Oh, gee, that's never happened before, right? The acting is great, the story is compelling, and if it's different in some ways from the book, so what? Both can be good. It does present the challenges women faced in the patriarchal 50s. Perfectly? Is anything ever perfect? But no one can honestly say women didn't face some of the exact chauvinistic attitudes portrayed in the series. Stupidity and arrogance from men. Misogyny. And too many women willingly invested in that system. This show is well worth your time.

There were signs of intelligent writing until plot veered violently off the road with a talking dog.

The writing seemed at odds with itself in some counter productive, self-defeating story points deflating its own efforts to invest our attention.

Promising characters and story arcs are abruptly abandoned before we're even acclimated, budding romantic relationships evaporate, any traces of hope and positivity are immediately extinguished.

Then a talking dog just runs the whole show off the rails leaving us with the impression that either the creators do not know what they want to produce, or its producers sabotaged its writers at every chance. Within the first episodes, we viewers are left dejected and drained, wondering whether this show should instead be titled "Lessons in Script Sabotage" or Debbie Downer Kills a Story.

Although most of what was discussed in this show went right over my head, whoosh, I still had an idea what was going on and I just found it so interesting. I couldn't wait to watch the next episode and I had no idea where this were going. I don't like it when I can figure out what's going to happen next and that didn't happen once.

My only complaint, and I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I would have loved to see a little revenge against a certain character...... if you've watched the entire series you'll know who I mean as that would have been so satisfying. But I guess I can see why they didn't.

Good show. Good acting. Good story.

Clearly, women have had to fight hard to gain a more equal place with men in our society. That struggle goes on. As a man, I did find it uncomfortable to sit through such a litany of nasty male chauvinist behaviour. Only a few of the men in this series behave well.

Such nasty male chauvinists certainly existed (and continue to do so) but they were only part of the problem. It seems to me that many men (and women) accepted what they were used to, rather than behaved quite so abusively. But I wasn't there. Nor was the author I guess. And perhaps passive chauvinism fails to make the point. Although I would argue the opposite. It's all the worse because decent but unthinking people are part of the problem.

Also, some male mistreatment of women would have been driven by expectations placed upon the man by peers. Another interesting angle missed.

Presenting the "enemy" in such a one dimensional fashion undervalues the battle that women have had to wage against so insidious a problem. So at times this series wielded a sledgehammer when a scalpel might have been more telling. Nevertheless, this story is eventful and is inhabited by characters you can root for, all of which kept me watching to the end.

This series is simple, it begins as if it were a well-made drama like any other you've seen, but it's precisely this simplicity that sets this series up as something unmissable and splendid, which sends a very strong message throughout that life is good, it's very good, and it's up to us to receive the happiness it's capable of offering.

I'm 19 years old, I'm not American, I know less about chemistry than Mad, I'm white and I cried with this movie as many times as if I were on my deathbed, as if I had lived so much already and was remembering the past. That's what it did to me, reminding me to value the present and give the best of ourselves to the one next to us, because one day the end will come.

I've also enjoyed the recent showbiz interest in presenting food as a way of giving meaning to our meals, as in The Bear (I highly recommend it). It's a beautiful subject to learn about when it's treated with dignity.