A Ski Trip Gone Sideways: Setting the Stage
What happens after “happily ever after?” It’s a question that fairy tales and romantic comedies conveniently skip over. The Netflix show “Forever,” originally on Amazon Prime, dares to delve into that very question with a surprising depth, wit, and a touch of the surreal. Starring Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen, “Forever” is more than just a quirky dramedy; it’s an insightful exploration of marriage, existentialism, and the often-awkward, always-challenging search for meaning in a life that never quite goes as planned. It’s easily accessible on Netflix, making it the perfect time to discover this hidden gem.
“Forever” centers around June and Oscar, a married couple who have settled into a comfortable, perhaps too comfortable, routine. They live a predictable life in suburban California, enjoying each other’s company but seemingly trapped in a cycle of the same dinners, the same TV shows, and the same conversations. They are, by all accounts, content, but a simmering sense of restlessness lingers just beneath the surface, particularly for June, who yearns for something more, something different, even if she can’t quite articulate what that “something” is.
To shake things up, they decide to take a ski trip, a departure from their usual vacation choices. This is where their predictable life takes a sharp, unexpected turn. Tragedy strikes during the trip, resulting in their untimely deaths. But death, in the world of “Forever,” isn’t necessarily the end. Instead, June and Oscar find themselves in a bizarre, idyllic afterlife – a Palm Springs-esque community where every day is sunny, and the houses are perpetually pristine.
The initial allure of this afterlife is undeniable. No more worries, no more responsibilities, just endless days of leisure. But soon, the cracks begin to show. The monotony of paradise starts to mirror the monotony of their earthly lives, forcing June and Oscar to confront the underlying issues in their marriage and the questions they had previously avoided. This isn’t just a story about death; it’s a story about life, love, and the often-painful process of self-discovery.
A Shift in Scenery, A Shift in Perspective
Halfway through the first season, “Forever” takes a bold narrative risk. The setting shifts away from the initial Palm Springs-esque afterlife, introducing new characters and exploring different facets of the afterlife existence. This change is not merely a plot device; it’s a deliberate attempt to mirror the characters’ evolving understanding of themselves and their relationship.
June and Oscar realize that their afterlife existence is not fixed. They have choices, opportunities to explore new paths, and the chance to confront the issues they avoided while they were alive. This shift in perspective forces them to acknowledge the unspoken desires, the buried resentments, and the communication breakdowns that contributed to their pre-death stagnation.
Marriage and Monotony: The Ties That Bind (and Bore)
One of the central themes explored in “Forever” is the complexities of long-term relationships. The show doesn’t shy away from portraying the challenges of maintaining passion and excitement in a marriage that has settled into a comfortable routine. It tackles the fear of stagnation, the feeling of being trapped, and the unspoken anxieties that can creep into even the most loving relationships.
June and Oscar’s relationship is a microcosm of the broader struggle to find meaning and fulfillment within the confines of commitment. The series asks: how do you keep things fresh? How do you avoid falling into predictable patterns? And how do you communicate your needs and desires without jeopardizing the stability of the relationship? Their afterlife experience becomes a catalyst for self-reflection, as they have the time and space to dissect their choices, their regrets, and their missed opportunities.
Existentialism and Meaning: What’s It All About, After All?
Beyond the intricacies of marriage, “Forever” delves into deeper existential questions. What does it mean to live a fulfilling life? What is the purpose of existence, especially when faced with the inevitability of death? And what happens when the familiar structures of our lives are stripped away, leaving us to confront our own mortality and the choices we’ve made?
The show suggests that meaning isn’t necessarily found in grand gestures or extraordinary achievements, but rather in the small, everyday moments of connection and the genuine pursuit of personal growth. The characters in “Forever” grapple with these questions, both in their earthly lives and in their afterlife existence, searching for purpose and connection in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
Change and Growth: Evolving After Death
One of the most compelling aspects of “Forever” is its exploration of personal growth, even in the afterlife. The show challenges the notion that people are static beings, incapable of change. June and Oscar evolve in response to their circumstances, confronting their flaws, exploring new interests, and ultimately, learning to communicate more effectively.
Their journey is a testament to the human capacity for adaptation and resilience. They demonstrate that even after death, there is still room for growth, for learning, and for forging new connections. The series emphasizes the importance of embracing change, taking risks, and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone in order to live a more fulfilling life, no matter how long that life may be.
The Power of Communication: Saying What Needs to Be Said
A significant theme of the show is the importance of open and honest communication in any relationship. June and Oscar’s initial stagnation stemmed, in part, from their inability to express their true feelings and desires. They often skirted around difficult conversations, fearing confrontation and the potential for disruption.
The afterlife grants them a unique opportunity to rectify this. They are forced to confront their past mistakes and engage in honest conversations about their regrets, their unspoken needs, and their hopes for the future. Through these often-painful dialogues, they begin to understand each other on a deeper level and build a stronger, more authentic connection. The show suggests that communication, however difficult, is essential for navigating the complexities of love and maintaining healthy relationships.
The Performances: Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen Shine
Forever boasts stellar performances from its leads, Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen. Rudolph shines as June, bringing a nuanced portrayal of a woman yearning for something more. She perfectly balances comedic timing with moments of profound vulnerability, making June a relatable and sympathetic character.
Armisen embodies Oscar with a quiet charm and a subtle sense of humor. He portrays Oscar as a well-meaning but somewhat complacent husband, struggling to understand his wife’s desires and his own place in the world. The chemistry between Rudolph and Armisen is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to their portrayal of a long-married couple.
The supporting cast, including Hong Chau as Kase and Noah Robbins as Mark, also deliver memorable performances. Their characters contribute to the show’s exploration of diverse perspectives on life, death, and relationships, adding layers of complexity to the overall narrative.
Why It’s Worth Watching: A Gem Waiting to Be Discovered
“Forever” is a unique and rewarding viewing experience. Its original premise, its blend of genres, and its willingness to take risks set it apart from other shows. It’s a show that invites viewers to contemplate the big questions about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. It tackles serious themes with a light touch, offering moments of genuine humor alongside moments of profound reflection.
The show’s thematic richness and thought-provoking questions make it more than just a lighthearted comedy. It’s a show that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting you to consider your own relationships, your own choices, and your own search for meaning. With captivating performances, a clever script, and a truly original concept, “Forever” deserves a wider audience. Now that it’s easily accessible on Netflix, there’s no excuse to miss out. Perhaps this will help its popularity and fan’s requests for a season two may be answered.
“Forever” on Netflix is a must-watch if you’re looking for a show that’s both funny and profound. Prepare to laugh, cry, and contemplate the complexities of life and love. Perhaps “Forever” isn’t just about the afterlife, but about finding ways to make every moment of our lives meaningful.
