One week after a boxing event depicting Mike Tyson and a Paul brother, Netflix bounces back, focusing on a much more compassionate depiction of aging and elder abuse through 'A Man on the Inside.' The series, created by Mike Schur, offers an amusing yet compassionate look at an elder man's thrilling journey in a retirement community.
Much like 'Only Murders in the Building,' 'A Man on the Inside' is a unique blend of comic relief and poignant reflections, making it a semi-comedic look at individuals battling loneliness by immersing themselves into a genre they love. This series is a perfect vehicle for both its adored leading man, Ted Danson, who plays Charles, a retired engineering professor, and an extraordinarily cast ensemble.
Schur has skillfully adapted the concept from 2020's 'The Mole Agent,' a Chilean documentary. Charles, motivated by a newspaper ad for a senior investigative assistant position, finds himself immersed in solving a perplexing case of a stolen necklace in the Pacific View Retirement Community. This mission not only enables him to engage with a diverse group of residents and staff, but also allows him to overcome personal hurdles in the wake of his wife's passing.
The series skillfully juggles comedy and emotions, depicting the struggles of aging without being disrespectful or cruel. Alongside the comic elements, the series doesn't shy away from addressing serious topics like grieving a lost spouse and the onset of dementia. The show uniquely manages to make viewers laugh while also invoking heartfelt emotions.
A notable aspect of 'A Man on the Inside' is the extraordinary casting. From Stephen McKinley Henderson’s well-crafted character, Calbert, to recognizable actors like Getz, Lori Tan Chinn, it is an ensemble cast that shines.
Riding on the exceptional portrayal by Ted Danson, the series explores Charles's journey with humor, charisma, and underlying melancholy. He beautifully interfaces with the rest of the cast, like Ellis and Estrada, creating a delightful mix of sweetness and comic sternness.
After its first season, the series is equally set for a well-rounded conclusion or an exciting second season. In either case, 'A Man on the Inside,' much like 'Only Murders in the Building,' promises to be an engaging narrative capturing the undiscussed spectrum of elderly life.
