The Four Seasons is a Fresh Look at a Cult Classic – Netflix Tudum
Let’s be honest—remakes often get a bad rap. But Netflix’s new take on The Four Seasons, originally a 1981 film by Alan Alda, might just be the rare exception that improves on the original in all the right ways.
Tina Fey leads the creative team behind the fresh eight-episode series, and with a cast that includes Steve Carell, Colman Domingo, Kerri Kenney-Silver, and Will Forte, there’s no shortage of sharp comedy and emotional nuance. But what really sets this remake apart? It updates the tone, addresses outdated dynamics, and gives its female characters more depth and staying power—especially Anne, the once-sidelined wife who finally gets her due.
What’s The Four Seasons About?
At its heart, The Four Seasons follows three longtime couples who gather for seasonal vacations—sounds simple, right? But underneath the cozy cabins and weekend getaways lies a much messier story about marriage, identity, and the gut-punch reality of midlife transitions.
In both the original film and Netflix’s series, the drama kicks off when Nick (now played by Steve Carell) abruptly leaves his wife, Anne (Kerri Kenney-Silver), claiming she’s become “inert.” In the 1981 version, that was pretty much the end of Anne’s story. But not anymore.
A Modern, More Empathetic Anne
Netflix’s Anne isn’t just brushed aside. This time, she stays in the story—and what a difference that makes. We watch her stumble, grow, and reclaim her life with dignity. Her heartbreak is real and messy—especially when Nick announces the breakup during a surprise vow renewal she organized—but her recovery is honest, funny, and empowering.
That character arc? It’s gold for viewers who crave emotional complexity and real-life relatability.
The Comedy Is Sharper, But So Is the Truth
Fans of 30 Rock or Never Have I Ever will feel right at home with the writing, courtesy of Lang Fisher, Tracey Wigfield, and Tina Fey. Yes, it’s funny. But this isn’t just sitcom territory—the humor is layered with self-awareness and subtle commentary about aging, long-term love, and starting over.
Take Jack and Kate (played by Will Forte and Tina Fey), the central couple still married but quietly questioning what that really means. Their dynamic, like much of the show, reflects today’s reality: committed relationships take work, grace, and often a sense of humor about all the things that go wrong.
So, Is the Remake Better Than the Original?
Short answer: yes. The Netflix version honors the bones of Alda’s story while evolving with the times. It keeps the seasonal structure, the group friendships, and even nods to the original—Alan Alda himself appears as Anne’s father. But crucially, it updates the narrative with empathy and insight, especially when it comes to how women are portrayed.
In the ‘80s, Anne was invisible. In 2025, she’s the emotional anchor.
Why It’s Worth Watching
- Relatable characters in midlife exploring change with humor and vulnerability
- Fresh, witty writing from TV veterans who know how to balance laughs with depth
- Emotional redemption arc that gives sidelined characters real agency
- Featured cameo from Alan Alda giving his quiet blessing
- Stunning performances by a cast that understands timing and truth
Whether you’re revisiting the story as a fan of the original or coming in fresh, Netflix’s The Four Seasons is a compelling reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story—and sometimes, the best chapters come later in life.
Looking for a feel-good series with heart, humor, and a touch of nostalgia? This remake might just be your next binge.
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