I really enjoyed watching the series - excellent casting - Johnny Flynn and Roisin Gallagher (and Jenn Murray's Gemma made me laugh out loud through her mannerisms ) and there's great chemistry between the two leads. Not the usual boy meets girl storyline which involves attempted suicide, abortion, Christianity and sectarian politics all set in Belfast. Definitely give it a go. I would like to see a second series from Sky - I hope they don't do that Netflix thing of not following through - which is so irritating. Carry on the with he story development - it's an interesting premise, and as I said before the leads are great.
23 Reviews
You know what? It was better than I expected
mpeacock9011 September 2023
I'm laid up with a horrible cold so I binged watched them all in 1 morning.
Having visited Belfast a few times back in my youth, I like seeing places I've been to on the screen.
I'd seen the male lead from Emma, but the female lead is just so heartbreakingly real, & strong, & vulnerable, she won me over in the first 10 minutes. I actually cared about her and rooted for her right the way through.
I kind of thought I knew where it was going to go but, I didn't see it coming.
Janet & Seamus were believable and they had great on screen chemistry. He's more than a bit of a prat but I liked their journey.
Funny, sexy, make you laugh, make you cry telly. Well worth a watch.
Having visited Belfast a few times back in my youth, I like seeing places I've been to on the screen.
I'd seen the male lead from Emma, but the female lead is just so heartbreakingly real, & strong, & vulnerable, she won me over in the first 10 minutes. I actually cared about her and rooted for her right the way through.
I kind of thought I knew where it was going to go but, I didn't see it coming.
Janet & Seamus were believable and they had great on screen chemistry. He's more than a bit of a prat but I liked their journey.
Funny, sexy, make you laugh, make you cry telly. Well worth a watch.
Okay show, slightly deceptive title
AfricanBro19 October 2023
Despite the title and the poster it's not super romantic, traditionally. Less cute romcom, more chaotic romcom. Generally speaking, it gets better as it goes, especially once you get acquainted with the characters. The main character, in particular, takes a while to warm up to, even now that I've finished the season. However, he does feel like a genuinely relatable person, or like a real person, and that's a good thing. It's not as if he was written to be anything other than himself. The tension between the two main characters felt awkward, yet it seemed realistic and added to the authenticity of the show.
The story isn't overly complex or convoluted. You can sense a twist coming later on, but it's not grandiose or mind-blowing, but it maintains a believable quality. The humor isn't riotous, but it does have a simple genuine feel. British humor. Music is occasionally used to enhance this, especially in the first episode. Towards the end, it's less about humor and more about the affair, the show's vibe keeps a balanced tone without going overboard. The series doesn't try to do too much in general.
If you're not accustomed to watching British sitcoms like this, I'd recommend starting with something like "Catastrophe" first. It's a better introduction and helps you get accustomed to the humor and style. The title "The Lovers" can be a bit misleading, so if the first episode doesn't resonate with you, it's probably best to skip the rest. However, if you do like it, then by all means, continue watching. I think the first episode's a good test.
The story isn't overly complex or convoluted. You can sense a twist coming later on, but it's not grandiose or mind-blowing, but it maintains a believable quality. The humor isn't riotous, but it does have a simple genuine feel. British humor. Music is occasionally used to enhance this, especially in the first episode. Towards the end, it's less about humor and more about the affair, the show's vibe keeps a balanced tone without going overboard. The series doesn't try to do too much in general.
If you're not accustomed to watching British sitcoms like this, I'd recommend starting with something like "Catastrophe" first. It's a better introduction and helps you get accustomed to the humor and style. The title "The Lovers" can be a bit misleading, so if the first episode doesn't resonate with you, it's probably best to skip the rest. However, if you do like it, then by all means, continue watching. I think the first episode's a good test.
Absolutely charming
bcibella31 October 2023
This show is fantastic. It's one of those shows where the acting absolutely makes or breaks it, and in this case it soars. Not that the writing isn't good, because it is, but in the hands of lesser actors it could have come off as corny or wooden. Luckily, Johnny Flynn and Roisin Gallagher have amazing chemistry and do so much to convey awkwardness, longing and nervousness. The effect is absolutely charming. The added political implications of the Belfast setting (no spoilers!) helps to add a bit of depth to the story and will hopefully provide more layers to be explored in Season 2. I would personally love to come back to these characters and see where the story takes them next, especially after the events of the finale.
I cannot recommend this show enough. It's a sweet story of two people from different backgrounds, and I promise you the acting is worth it. I was enchanted throughout.
I cannot recommend this show enough. It's a sweet story of two people from different backgrounds, and I promise you the acting is worth it. I was enchanted throughout.
Brilliant
rivervalo11 September 2023
Funny as hell, serious without being melodramatic. Sensitive, awkward, unexpected at times, honest, witty, blunt, intelligent
The chemistry between the two protagonists is magnetic. You can actually feel the desire and longing they have for one another .I was literally holding my breath at certain moments while they were gazing at each other's eyes.
The filming and location is beautiful, especially Ireland. The pacing is quick, except for the last episode, in my opinion of course
I am guessing that season two (if there will be one) will pursue the things that divide them, religion, politics, even more.
The chemistry between the two protagonists is magnetic. You can actually feel the desire and longing they have for one another .I was literally holding my breath at certain moments while they were gazing at each other's eyes.
The filming and location is beautiful, especially Ireland. The pacing is quick, except for the last episode, in my opinion of course
I am guessing that season two (if there will be one) will pursue the things that divide them, religion, politics, even more.
Excellent script, direction & acting
pfzsrdzt10 September 2023
A delightful mix of humour (some of it dark humour), relationship building & breaking, religion & secularity, against a background of personal mental strife and potential suicide. All set in present-day Belfast but with the history & unresolved issues still dividing communities starkly visible.
Two very different people falling in love, two similarish people falling out of love, fame (or not), vindictiveness, empathy & understanding, the absurdity of the news, politics & entertainment worlds, the everyday absurdities of a supermarket & its staff, all combine to create immediate recognition in the viewer.
Tightly written, tightly directed, well photographed and superbly well acted - this is a gem. The leads are believable, sexy, intelligent, witty, supporting cast each perfect in their own ways.
Two very different people falling in love, two similarish people falling out of love, fame (or not), vindictiveness, empathy & understanding, the absurdity of the news, politics & entertainment worlds, the everyday absurdities of a supermarket & its staff, all combine to create immediate recognition in the viewer.
Tightly written, tightly directed, well photographed and superbly well acted - this is a gem. The leads are believable, sexy, intelligent, witty, supporting cast each perfect in their own ways.
Bingeable fluff
wisewebwoman21 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The characters are engaging and believable at the outset and funny too. But believability was stretched far too much in the public storming off the set scene as this trope is more overdone than burned toast.
They are both likeable and engaging and the script is good and the scenery itself is breathtaking at times.
The characters are completely at odds in every aspect of their personalities and the overall feeling is they would never make it in real life.
How long can one be amused at the other's foibles (and ignorance) and as the old saying goes, how can one build a relationship on the heartbreak and deceit of another?
Overall they missed the mark of a good romcom.
6/10.
They are both likeable and engaging and the script is good and the scenery itself is breathtaking at times.
The characters are completely at odds in every aspect of their personalities and the overall feeling is they would never make it in real life.
How long can one be amused at the other's foibles (and ignorance) and as the old saying goes, how can one build a relationship on the heartbreak and deceit of another?
Overall they missed the mark of a good romcom.
6/10.
Captivating Says It!
nosmo-king30 December 2023
Unbelievably reassuring of the reality of love at first sight. Both lead actors are perfectly cast in a slightly deviated form of the classic romcom genre.
After just the first 3 episodes, (half) I am hooked and I only never binged the series as It was so late I just had to tear myself away.
I'm confident however, that the entire series will keep folk hooked as much as it has me. And I'm fairly sure that I am indeed in love with Roisin Gallagher now. Both lead characters carry the show and the wonderful Alice Eve also adds a certain something with some excellent dialogue.
Watch it, you won't be disappointed, and here's hoping there's a season 2 in the offing!
After just the first 3 episodes, (half) I am hooked and I only never binged the series as It was so late I just had to tear myself away.
I'm confident however, that the entire series will keep folk hooked as much as it has me. And I'm fairly sure that I am indeed in love with Roisin Gallagher now. Both lead characters carry the show and the wonderful Alice Eve also adds a certain something with some excellent dialogue.
Watch it, you won't be disappointed, and here's hoping there's a season 2 in the offing!
Cute, but the chemistry was missing
melanie-fell9 October 2023
If half stars were allowed, I would give this a 7.5. I enjoyed the premise, but there was no chemistry between the two main actors. Without that chemistry, it was hard to buy into all of the urgency and sacrifices that were made. I enjoyed the Seamus character, but Janet was a bit one-note. I don't know if there will be a second season, but I would watch it despite my low-level disappointment.
I also was intrigued by the England/Ireland subplot. As an American I have only a little knowledge of The Troubles, and this show made it easy to see how far-reaching the conflict has been.
Overall, enjoyed it, but was a bit let down by the lack of chemistry, which is the foundation of all that follows.
I also was intrigued by the England/Ireland subplot. As an American I have only a little knowledge of The Troubles, and this show made it easy to see how far-reaching the conflict has been.
Overall, enjoyed it, but was a bit let down by the lack of chemistry, which is the foundation of all that follows.
LOVED IT.....Best I have seen all year...excellent!
trail196513 September 2023
Having just watched Jack Ryan, and The Lionesses, spec ops, I was bowled over by this totally absorbing comedy drama. This had me laughing out loud, and then sat in thought about religion, politics and life in general. What a fantastic, touching, 6 episodes. Well done to all the folk that had a part in this. Loved it!
The writing of this was sublime, a love story with a dark twist, an earthy Notting Hill. The acting; little subtle looks, smiles and touches had me truly absorbed. What a cast....perfect.
Two worlds, two people, this had me almost punching the air, or wiping away a tear. I do not usually watch this sort of thing as action and sci fi are my thing.
If you want to watch anything this year, watch this.
The writing of this was sublime, a love story with a dark twist, an earthy Notting Hill. The acting; little subtle looks, smiles and touches had me truly absorbed. What a cast....perfect.
Two worlds, two people, this had me almost punching the air, or wiping away a tear. I do not usually watch this sort of thing as action and sci fi are my thing.
If you want to watch anything this year, watch this.
Even better than I thought
jamiesonrendall28 September 2023
I saw the advertising for this and thought it looked interesting. It had two actors which I love, Johnny Flynn and Alice Eve, and was set in Belfast which having studied global uprisings and conflicts as well have having visited I always love watching f shows where you can see the familiar streets and images. So I settled in for a light rom-com series that I knew I would be pleased with. BUT, it offered so much more than first intended!
The leads had great chemistry and the ability to skirt serious issues in early episodes as if they are simply background details yet revisit them as huge issues was amazing. I don't know if I read more into the lovers than was meant but to me it felt very much like a message about what happens when you ignore conflicting ideas. These two people have no business being together but are perfectly suited.
I blew through this series in one sitting and I definitely will revisit it. It will be interesting to watch back knowing what I know now.
The only criticism I have is the ending felt a little rushed but it didn't ruin it for me. I just felt more time could have been dedicated to the closing moments.
The leads had great chemistry and the ability to skirt serious issues in early episodes as if they are simply background details yet revisit them as huge issues was amazing. I don't know if I read more into the lovers than was meant but to me it felt very much like a message about what happens when you ignore conflicting ideas. These two people have no business being together but are perfectly suited.
I blew through this series in one sitting and I definitely will revisit it. It will be interesting to watch back knowing what I know now.
The only criticism I have is the ending felt a little rushed but it didn't ruin it for me. I just felt more time could have been dedicated to the closing moments.
Pretty terrible
black-and-gold28 September 2023
Flabbergasted by all the positive reviews here. I don't post reviews often and am even less likely to give something a negative one because I recognise all the hard work that gets put into these productions. However, the storyline of this series with really unlikeable characters was so unrealistic and full of cliches that I cannot overlook it, especially with all the positive reviews.
There was no chemistry between the lead characters and their inability to communicate with eachother was so immature if not ludicrous. It started off ok but went downhill after a couple episodes. I've seen Johnny Flynn in a few things and normally like him but even he couldn't redeem this. Save yourself the time.
There was no chemistry between the lead characters and their inability to communicate with eachother was so immature if not ludicrous. It started off ok but went downhill after a couple episodes. I've seen Johnny Flynn in a few things and normally like him but even he couldn't redeem this. Save yourself the time.
Huge Fanningan
mnics-4122124 September 2023
Great casting. I was hooked straightaway Binged the whole series in one go... I highly recommend you do the same.
The story was anything but predictable... The actors were brilliant. Great chemistry... Johnny Flynn excels in this type of comedic role... "funny without realising" .....
I really believed in the characters and I didn't want it to end. Each episode is carved out so well. And there are no wasted scenes....
The energy that flies between the leads is electric. The timing is on point. Even though this is billed as a rom com, it is really so much more than that.
I didn't want to say goodbye to them. I will definately be rewatching this show. I.
The story was anything but predictable... The actors were brilliant. Great chemistry... Johnny Flynn excels in this type of comedic role... "funny without realising" .....
I really believed in the characters and I didn't want it to end. Each episode is carved out so well. And there are no wasted scenes....
The energy that flies between the leads is electric. The timing is on point. Even though this is billed as a rom com, it is really so much more than that.
I didn't want to say goodbye to them. I will definately be rewatching this show. I.
A Little Piece of Irish Heaven
sweetsyerra29 February 2024
I pay a monthly subscription to Sundance Now so I have unfettered access to musician/actor Tim Minchin's Upright. One day, I realized that since I was handing over my hard-earned money, I should at least try to watch the other shows on the streaming service. So I started a list. Shows like this are why I'm glad I took the time. I would never have known about it otherwise. Just another show in a swirling sea of other shows. (So many shows, so little time.) But every episode was adorable. The two main leads are well cast and have obvious chemistry. The male lead even throws out a Tim Minchin vibe (atheist, smartypants, somewhat famous, slightly ginger, beard, etc etc). The female lead is a very complicated woman and somewhat abrasive, but she has her reasons and her spunk and snark are quickly appreciated. It's not sappy. It's real and down-to-earth and original. I hope there is a Season 2 and beyond. It's a romance for 2024.
world class romantic comedy
maandag-0731022 September 2023
The best romantic comedy we've seen in years.
And yesterday we've even watched it for a second time...never a dull moment !
We loved the storyline combining humor & tragedy of the romantic clash between irisch working class and the typical english attitude.
A very good perfomance of the crew ,especially Mrs Gallagher was very impressive -even outstanding- and we hope to see more of her in a leading role...hopefully a second series of "the lovers", although this seems highly unlikely.
We just watched / binged "the dry" britbox tv series also starring Roisin Gallagher. Although it's a completely other theme, it was a bitter sweet binge... A 100% recommendation, from the Netherlands.
And yesterday we've even watched it for a second time...never a dull moment !
We loved the storyline combining humor & tragedy of the romantic clash between irisch working class and the typical english attitude.
A very good perfomance of the crew ,especially Mrs Gallagher was very impressive -even outstanding- and we hope to see more of her in a leading role...hopefully a second series of "the lovers", although this seems highly unlikely.
We just watched / binged "the dry" britbox tv series also starring Roisin Gallagher. Although it's a completely other theme, it was a bitter sweet binge... A 100% recommendation, from the Netherlands.
Well thought out and executed series
oms_holyman28 September 2023
This has a bit of everything, it is funny and serious, it is obvious and unexpected, it's a love story about an affair where one participant is actually in a (seemingly) good relationship so you want them to work but you feel guilty as the third person doesn't seem like a bad person.
Overall i think 6 episodes was just about the right amount to drag out the classic will they, won't they before it got boring.
I am not sure where they could go with a second series apart from turning it into your standard relationship sitcom where they 'explore' their differences as it would spoil the feel of the concept which really is about the joy of new love and how it can cut through issues such as politics, peoples history and the day to day drudgery of life and set you free by giving you a new perspective on life.
Overall i think 6 episodes was just about the right amount to drag out the classic will they, won't they before it got boring.
I am not sure where they could go with a second series apart from turning it into your standard relationship sitcom where they 'explore' their differences as it would spoil the feel of the concept which really is about the joy of new love and how it can cut through issues such as politics, peoples history and the day to day drudgery of life and set you free by giving you a new perspective on life.
Very good little gem - however
mwarner-6686827 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This was a very good little series and thoroughly enjoyable few hours
However, one rather large plot hole
In episode five Janet reveals that she served three years for Loyalist terrorism back in the day.
For this to have happened the aforementioned jail term would have been, at the very latest, in the mid nineties. Given that the series is set in the present day Janet would have been between four and eight when she was banged up for three years. Did the writers overlook the Good Friday Agreement?
A shame as, other than that, it was a very good comedy which shone a light on how life has very much changed for the better in Northern Ireland over the last three decades.
However, one rather large plot hole
In episode five Janet reveals that she served three years for Loyalist terrorism back in the day.
For this to have happened the aforementioned jail term would have been, at the very latest, in the mid nineties. Given that the series is set in the present day Janet would have been between four and eight when she was banged up for three years. Did the writers overlook the Good Friday Agreement?
A shame as, other than that, it was a very good comedy which shone a light on how life has very much changed for the better in Northern Ireland over the last three decades.
Disappointing
jellyrhubarb5 March 2024
I'm game to watch anything Johnny Flynn does. I'm a fan! However, I was bummed that this was not my cup of tea. I didn't find it funny. The characters were annoying and the circumstance ludicrous. I know it's just a lighthearted rom-com but I expected something smarter.
The attraction between the 2 leads did not seem compelling enough that he would cheat on his girlfriend. The setting in Ireland was cool and I tried to make it through the series but bailed on episode three. It's too bad because I always welcome some lighthearted shows that I can watch in between the dark crime dramas that are everywhere.
I was kind of embarrassed for Flynn here.
The attraction between the 2 leads did not seem compelling enough that he would cheat on his girlfriend. The setting in Ireland was cool and I tried to make it through the series but bailed on episode three. It's too bad because I always welcome some lighthearted shows that I can watch in between the dark crime dramas that are everywhere.
I was kind of embarrassed for Flynn here.
Instantly likeable characters and story!
stuo53531 October 2023
Brilliant! Funny! Endearing! Apart from the two main characters the supporting cast are an absorbing mix of individuals who are so funny and an instant success! The fact that the episodes are only very short (25 mins) means that each one has very little time to bring the story to life, but it succeeds 100% and keeps the interest and intrigue as to where the story will go! The various emotions and twists and turns only help to build the wonder as to how it will all end, with a mix of serious issues from the past and how it affects people in current times all with a clever use of humour and singular personal issues. All in all a well directed, produced and acted series.
supermarket or television
anniemarshallster3 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Seamus (Johnny Flynn) works a close resemblance to Alan Partridge in his pieces to camera, not so much Andrew Marr but with more than a touch of Robert Peston. He is a vain and immature jovial TV presenter, a ditz, in other words, but a nice ditz. I doubt the BBC would inflict him on us but one never knows these days. Perhaps that's the joke. Plenty of verbal jokes: "Campbell to my Blair, Ingham to my Thatcher, Goebbels to my...." or "Life is random and meaningless..." Seamus (AKA John/Jon Snow -slightly laboured) is fundamentally kind, if a bit simple, easily baffled by his producer Ndidi who is (nice joke NOT overplayed) significantly taller than him and highly intelligent with bat-like hearing. Incidentally Seamus reveals nerves about interviewing pollies etc which I don't buy for a minute. Alan Partridge thinks he can do it and so should Seamus. Ongoing in-joke that Seamus wears terrible clothes when he's NOT before the camera. Some adlibs. And we are in the land of farce where anything goes.
Interestingly for a rom-com, it's Janet that pushes the relationship forward all the time, Seamus not exactly holding back but demonstrating that he's been well-schooled in the rules of feminism (presumably by Frankie, who is very bossy) and his Mum who probably brought him up nice even if it was in the wilds of North East London. Janet, played by the remarkable Roisin Gallagher, makes all the running in this affair, Seamus trailing a beat behind. Definitely the proactive one, she's also had more slings and arrows in her life, giving a bit of depth at the end. Depth at the beginning would have been welcome too. Janet has a confidante in her co-worker, but Seamus has no one to chew things over with except for the professionals in his business; Janet's co-worker sees the romance, Seamus' producers see the icebergs ahead. Opposites attract - she's constantly sending him up.
The denouement of Janet's trauma hidden under a very black and dirty sense of humour (the trauma political rather than emotional, although the writing makes clear how intertwined they are) is quite quickly polished into nothingness by Tim, the other producer, who says at least she's not the Taliban. So definitely lots of options for a series 2!
Hugh Grant moments are skirted but mainly averted. There are moments where JF's comic flair is exploited, trying to prove he's famous, doing moonwalks, pratfalls, a fun display of actors' tricks. The Richard Curtis vibe fights with the political reality vibe, teetering on that edge. The script definitely knows how to borrow. One FATHER TED joke (the fighting couple who manage the shop and their sudden cessation of hostilities in front of others) is ventured. What sort of evangelical malarky is being peddled in that church Seamus wonders? But on further viewing it seems perfect for the ex-members of L. U. V. Who really DO have to learn to love themselves a little more.
The support cast is good and it looks lovely. It's more adult territory than the fondly-remembered LOVESICK; for example, Seamus dodges telling girlfriend Frankie about Janet at first but when he grasps that particular nettle it's a far more adult scenario - there's little sorrow but a considerable hurt pride on Frankie's part; ego damage that he's ditched her for a trolley dolly which she somehow transfers back onto Seamus. But she's good at weaving that into her own future narrative. Now that's sophistication and reality!
The weakest section is the wrap - he's standing in the rain, a crowd gathers..... And there's that Richard Curtis vibe again, especially the final emotional embrace in the rain and the pullback to the admiring applauding crowd, thankfully trumped by the shots in the supermarket where he lends a hand while Janet finishes her shift. Performative feminism to the end!
BUT why do I have that faint sense of Deja Vue?
Interestingly for a rom-com, it's Janet that pushes the relationship forward all the time, Seamus not exactly holding back but demonstrating that he's been well-schooled in the rules of feminism (presumably by Frankie, who is very bossy) and his Mum who probably brought him up nice even if it was in the wilds of North East London. Janet, played by the remarkable Roisin Gallagher, makes all the running in this affair, Seamus trailing a beat behind. Definitely the proactive one, she's also had more slings and arrows in her life, giving a bit of depth at the end. Depth at the beginning would have been welcome too. Janet has a confidante in her co-worker, but Seamus has no one to chew things over with except for the professionals in his business; Janet's co-worker sees the romance, Seamus' producers see the icebergs ahead. Opposites attract - she's constantly sending him up.
The denouement of Janet's trauma hidden under a very black and dirty sense of humour (the trauma political rather than emotional, although the writing makes clear how intertwined they are) is quite quickly polished into nothingness by Tim, the other producer, who says at least she's not the Taliban. So definitely lots of options for a series 2!
Hugh Grant moments are skirted but mainly averted. There are moments where JF's comic flair is exploited, trying to prove he's famous, doing moonwalks, pratfalls, a fun display of actors' tricks. The Richard Curtis vibe fights with the political reality vibe, teetering on that edge. The script definitely knows how to borrow. One FATHER TED joke (the fighting couple who manage the shop and their sudden cessation of hostilities in front of others) is ventured. What sort of evangelical malarky is being peddled in that church Seamus wonders? But on further viewing it seems perfect for the ex-members of L. U. V. Who really DO have to learn to love themselves a little more.
The support cast is good and it looks lovely. It's more adult territory than the fondly-remembered LOVESICK; for example, Seamus dodges telling girlfriend Frankie about Janet at first but when he grasps that particular nettle it's a far more adult scenario - there's little sorrow but a considerable hurt pride on Frankie's part; ego damage that he's ditched her for a trolley dolly which she somehow transfers back onto Seamus. But she's good at weaving that into her own future narrative. Now that's sophistication and reality!
The weakest section is the wrap - he's standing in the rain, a crowd gathers..... And there's that Richard Curtis vibe again, especially the final emotional embrace in the rain and the pullback to the admiring applauding crowd, thankfully trumped by the shots in the supermarket where he lends a hand while Janet finishes her shift. Performative feminism to the end!
BUT why do I have that faint sense of Deja Vue?
I couldn't help but smile along most of the time
tzot21 March 2024
I suspect whether you feel the chemistry or not depends a lot on your personal experiences in life. And I imagine if one never fell for a damaged person then the character of Janet would be alienating to them. (I mention Janet because she's the one I fell irrevocably and utterly in love with :) ; kudos, Róisín, you did a great job)
It's a British rom-com that gave me lots of laughs, although it's not only that. There's a darker side to it, given the setting. But still, it is a rom-com, and a successful at that. I enjoyed the humour, the acting, the pace. Episode 5, which had to introduce the darker side, was lacking a little in chemistry, but eventually things went the proper, cliché way as they should.
Life is random and meaningless, anyway. (A philosophical statement that happens to be mentioned in the series during a celebration.)
I watched the first episode and it took me a while to really enjoy it. So if you watch the complete first episode and it didn't click for you, stop watching it; otherwise, you'll probably binge-watch the whole series, so make sure you start it on a time and day you don't have to deprive yourself of sleep.
Life is random and meaningless, anyway. (A philosophical statement that happens to be mentioned in the series during a celebration.)
I watched the first episode and it took me a while to really enjoy it. So if you watch the complete first episode and it didn't click for you, stop watching it; otherwise, you'll probably binge-watch the whole series, so make sure you start it on a time and day you don't have to deprive yourself of sleep.
Too many Stereotypes
rockspatz18 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Starts of well. The first episode is funny and charming and then you find out that the man has a girlfriend and she is nice. However, the two decide to start an affair behind her back.
There are some stereotypes at play:
1) The woman works in a supermarket so she has no idea about politics. Doesn't even know who the foreign secretary is but she knows all about reality TV.
2) The man knows his politics but since he is not into reality TV, he is a snob and therefore has no clue about "real life".
Seamus has a girlfriend (Frankie) whom he (Seamus) claims to love and the woman (Janet) is aware that he has a girlfriend but the two decide to have an "affair" anyway. The girlfriend turns up, so they lie and pretend to be cousins.
Frankie is nice and friendly to Janet and Seamus and Janet sneak around behind her back. I found the two leads to have no moral compass and it was difficult to root for them. Also apparently Seamus is very self absorbed but Janet is so "real", she isn't self absorbed at all when she decides to put her feelings ahead when she decides to pursue a guy in a relationship. It was hard to root for two cheaters. I guess the definition of rom coms have no changed too.
There are some stereotypes at play:
1) The woman works in a supermarket so she has no idea about politics. Doesn't even know who the foreign secretary is but she knows all about reality TV.
2) The man knows his politics but since he is not into reality TV, he is a snob and therefore has no clue about "real life".
Seamus has a girlfriend (Frankie) whom he (Seamus) claims to love and the woman (Janet) is aware that he has a girlfriend but the two decide to have an "affair" anyway. The girlfriend turns up, so they lie and pretend to be cousins.
Frankie is nice and friendly to Janet and Seamus and Janet sneak around behind her back. I found the two leads to have no moral compass and it was difficult to root for them. Also apparently Seamus is very self absorbed but Janet is so "real", she isn't self absorbed at all when she decides to put her feelings ahead when she decides to pursue a guy in a relationship. It was hard to root for two cheaters. I guess the definition of rom coms have no changed too.
Comedy? When were the Irish Troubles funny?
Maverick196213 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
A banana skin for Johnny Flynn who does the best he can with this terrible script. I really like him as a folk singer and actor but this is devoid of humour due to a poe faced Roisin Gallagher as the woman he has an affair with behind his girlfriend's back. There is zero chemistry between the two lead actors and I wished for more Alice Eve who plays Johnny's girl he abandons. Complete madness as she's streets more attractive and likeable. I struggled until the last episode when there was a complicated exchange of words about the Irish Troubles and how the character of Janet served time for being in a paramilitary group or something I couldn't get my head around. She's far too young for that anyway and I thought this isn't a comedy, just some sort of propaganda by the sound of it and I switched off and deleted the rest of it.
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