Apple TV's newest comedy-drama offering, "Government Cheese" brings together a talented cast for a storyline ripe with wit, religious allegory, and commentary on the 1960s American culture. The show's soundtrack is filled with a delightful blend of soul, krautrock, and pop. Yet, despite such promising materials, it does not stand out among the top television shows this year.

David Oyelowo stars as charismatic former convict Hampton Chambers, who returns home to Chatsworth, California determined to lead a lawful life with his quirky invention-a self-sharpening drill. Faced with lukewarm reception from his family and an unexpected link to a Quebecois crime family set on utilising his invention, Hampton's path to redemption becomes more winding than anticipated.

Adding to the complexity of Hampton's journey are odd strangers who may or may not bring messages from a heavenly entity. From an oddly knowledgeable woman with her hand stuck in a vent to a cryptic nameless man, the show infuses supernatural elements into Hampton's struggles.

The show's visual aesthetics and philosophical undertones are heavily influenced by the works of the Coen Brothers and Wes Anderson. With religious parables, black comedy, and stylish set designs and costumes, "Government Cheese" strives for a high-concept surrealist portrayal of black family life in 1960's America.

However, this wealth of components fails to blend into a compelling output. While certain elements shine in their own right, the overall product is diluted due to the overstretching of a storyline suited to a two-hour film format into a 10-episode series. The airtight plot begins to leak by the end, leaving a sense of emptiness and wasted potential.

It's clear that "Government Cheese" is far from the disappointing high-budget projects seen from Apple before. Yet, it still falls victim to the pitfalls of other prestige TV shows-overextension of a potentially brilliant narrative. While a second season may allow the chance for course-correction, the current model feels far from satisfactory. The series will premiere on Apple TV on April 16th.