Friends From College Review

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Friends from college are the next binge-worthy original comedy series on Netflix. Take the premise of the last pieces of a college group of friends being reunited in NYC. Add those pieces being Keegan-Michael Key(Ethan) and Colbie Smulders(Lisa). Then add the twist that one of those friends played by Anne Parisse(Sam) has been sleeping with the aforementioned missing piece now arriving right in her back door since before he even married their mutual long time friend. Now one upon hearing this premise would think riveting drama. But this show does the exact opposite of what one of my other favorites shows Divorce does. It almost completely removes all of the serious drama feels and instead fills it with some of the most hilariously awkward scenarios a pair of long time cheaters could encounter I could ever imagine. I found myself laughing hysterically 98% of the time. The ensemble group works so well with each other constantly having me wonder how much is actually scripted and how are they masterfully improving a bunch of it. The group gets so believable as an authentic and complex group of two-decade-old friends. Their dynamics as a group and all the smaller groups within are fascinating and enthralling to watch and uncover. With the big secret as the recurring theme Ethan and Sam's undeniably whirlwind affair they just can't seem to end. As my friends and I watched for hours unable to stop we were on the edge of our seats in anticipation for the slow clever and hilarious reveals of the inner workings and histories of each group member. How they relate now and how they use to relate to each other and to the people outside of their inner circle especially the ones they are in intimate relationships with like Sam's husband and kids and Max's boyfriend. Also how those dynamics change when the two worlds collide. Coming from someone who is a victim to very hurtful affairs I was thoroughly impressed how they stripped most of the intrinsic hatred I have for the concept through the absolutely hilarious ways in which they have an affair and the way it's handled throughout the episodes. The way everyone's demons almost or do come to light over just eight thirty-minute episodes are extremely entertaining and impressive. And I couldn't take my eyes off the screen. I laughed out loud often, and I am very much looking forward to the next season. Literally, the only reason I couldn't give it a perfect score is as with most highly improvisational like material every once in a while bits can go on too long or be a bit over the top. However, this is a definite 9.5 out of 10 must watch. Great to binge watch with friends or by yourself.