Netflix continues to expand its French offerings with the premiere of the new series "Super Males" on January 24. Starring known French actors Manu Payet, Guillaume Labbé, Vincent Heneine, and Antoine Gouy, this series delves deep between the lines of modern masculinity and friendship.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of contemporary Paris, "Super Males" follows four friends who each face personal and societal challenges. Tom (played by Manu Payet) struggles with depression and is caught up in the chaos of modern dating, often being seen shuffling around in unicorn slippers as he grapples with his inability to move on from his ex. Vincent Heneine’s character is embroiled in infidelity, resisting his partner's suggestion of adopting more liberal romantic practices, which echoes the strain many feel under the modern definitions of love and partnership.
Guillaume Labbé portrays an advertising executive whose ego is bruised by job loss, and Antoine Gouy’s character, Jérémie, embodies the tensions of being both a family man and maintaining his identity, all of which come together to represent the varying dimensions of masculinity today.
"It's interesting to talk about toxic masculinity, which is often misunderstood," stated Antoine Gouy, reflecting on his role as Jérémie. "Discussing today's men and relationships offers brilliant terrain for humor and real conversation."
Directed by Noémie Saglio, who also helmed the beloved series "Plan cœur," the show aims to tackle serious topics through humor. "I wanted to join the team because it had a woman behind the camera," said Payet. "Talking about these issues today and trying to laugh about them between men would have been complicated without her perspective." Saglio’s presence contributes to the series' depth, ensuring it does not fall prey to clichéd portrayals of male friendships.
The show serves as both a comedy and commentary, focusing on how friendships are affected by the shifting sands of societal norms and expectations, particularly around masculinity. The mix of comedic relief and more serious themes resonates with viewers who have long questioned traditional notions of what it means to be male. Critics have already noted the show’s clever handling of the absurdities encountered by its characters.
Eventually, viewers find themselves invested not only in the antics of these protagonists but also sympathizing with their struggles, thanks to the stellar supporting cast, which includes Mélanie Bernier, Olga Kurylenko, Alysson Paradis, and Ariane Mounier. Their performances add richness and complexity, showing how the female perspective interplays with male dynamics.
"Super Males" is not just another comedic series; it is an adaptation of the acclaimed Spanish series "Machos Alpha," which explores similar territory but through its unique cultural lens. Released alongside the original Spanish version also provided by Netflix, the French adaptation could serve as fertile ground for broader discussions on masculinity across cultures.
The combination of humor, friendship, and real emotion invites viewers to engage with complicated subjects often overlooked. With quotes from the cast highlighting their appreciation for the depth of the characters, "Super Males" holds the potential to become not only entertaining but enlightening as it explores the bonds of friendship and the quest for identity.
Available from January 24, "Super Males" is poised to capture the attention of both French audiences and international viewers who are eager to explore the artistic nuances of contemporary masculinity.