Netflix’s series “The Four Seasons,” adapted from Alan Alda’s 1981 film, has returned with its second season, delving into themes of grief, mid-life crises, babies, and depression. Created by Tina Fey, Lang Fisher, and Tracey Wigfield, the first season centered on three couples, long-time friends, who vacation together across the four seasons. The series debuted with Nick, portrayed by Steve Carell, announcing he was leaving his wife, Anne, played by Kerri Kenney-Silver, just before their 25th wedding anniversary. The season ended dramatically with Nick’s death and the news that his younger girlfriend, Ginny, portrayed by Erika Henningsen, was pregnant. In the somber second season, the group is reduced to five, occasionally joined by Ginny and her child, as they navigate life after Nick and ponder their future.
As the new season opens in spring, the friends gather in the Catskills for a hike to scatter Nick’s ashes. Jack, played by Will Forte, who is deeply affected by Nick’s passing, and a heavily pregnant yet energetic Ginny, are the only ones enjoying the climb. Meanwhile, Kate, played by Fey, puts on a brave face to support Jack. She reluctantly agreed to train for a marathon he eagerly entered them in. While Kate and Jack grow apart, Claude, played by Marco Calvani, and Danny, portrayed by Colman Domingo, seem aligned until a discussion about children strains their relationship. Tensions also rise between Ginny and Anne over financial matters and Nick’s estate. The weekend unfolds as grief turns to anger.
As summer arrives, the friends head to the Jersey Shore with a new little guest. In Episode 4, “On the Boardwalk,” Anne explores her newfound independence. Meanwhile, Kate discovers an unexpected dream that could offer her solace as her relationship with Jack becomes more distant. This episode, along with Episode 3, “Down the Shore,” reminds both characters and viewers that personal autonomy often leads to happiness.
While the acting remains strong, Season 2 lacks the whimsy of its predecessor, especially outside of the summer and winter episodes. The humor and return of Anne’s guitar-playing former partner, Terry, played by Toby Huss, lack the impact of earlier jokes. This reflects the theme that dealing with death is inherently difficult, and those who knew Nick are each coping in their own way.
The show excels in its realistic portrayal of long-term relationships. It contrasts Claude and Danny’s considerations of parenthood with Ginny’s challenges as a single mother. Danny is eager about having a child but lacks practical experience, and Ginny’s baby’s cries serve as a wake-up call for the couple.
The examination of Kate and Jack’s relationship is the most grounded in the series. While their issues were understated in the first season, especially compared to Nick and Anne’s breakup, this season shows Kate overwhelmed by the sadness in their home. Jack wants to dwell on the loss of his best friend, while Kate seeks to find joy again.
The first season of “The Four Seasons” captivated audiences by disrupting the lives of a group in their fifties. However, Season 2, with its reduced wit and stakes, doesn’t quite capture the same lively charm. Nonetheless, with new settings like the Italian Alps in winter and a talented cast with excellent chemistry, the series remains engaging and worth watching.
“The Four Seasons” Season 2 is now streaming on Netflix.
