In a dramatic turn of events, Netflix's new miniseries, The Four Seasons, has captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and unexpected twists. Released on May 1, 2025, the series, developed by Tina Fey, follows a close-knit group of friends navigating the complexities of life, love, and loss over the course of a year marked by significant changes. With a star-studded cast that includes Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Colman Domingo, the show offers a blend of humor and poignant moments, culminating in a finale that leaves viewers both shocked and reflective.
The series chronicles the lives of three couples, who are not only friends but also intertwined in their romantic relationships. As they experience the literal four seasons together, they face the impending divorce of one couple, which casts a shadow over their gatherings. The story takes a heart-wrenching turn in the penultimate episode when Nick, played by Steve Carell, dies unexpectedly in a car accident after a heated argument with his new girlfriend, Ginny (Erika Henningsen). This tragic event sets the stage for the emotional turmoil that follows.
In the aftermath of Nick's death, Anne (Keri Kenney-Silver), his ex-wife, is left to arrange his funeral, a task that proves to be fraught with tension and unresolved feelings. Kate (Tina Fey), who takes on the logistics of the funeral, faces challenges as she tries to manage the conflicting emotions within the group. "I thought I was doing everything right, but clearly, I missed the mark," Kate reflects, as she grapples with the consequences of her decisions.
As the funeral approaches, Ginny wishes to contribute her memories of Nick, but Anne's reluctance to involve her creates a rift. In a misguided attempt to bridge this gap, Jack (Will Forte) suggests that Ginny speak at the funeral, which only intensifies the existing tensions. The funeral itself is a disaster, marred by poor planning and a small venue that does not honor Nick's memory. Instead of a heartfelt tribute, Anne's eulogy leads to a moment of self-realization, where she admits, "I didn't truly know Nick after all these years. What a revelation that is!"
During the ceremony, Claude (Marco Calvani) shares a dream he had about Nick transforming into a butterfly, a metaphor that resonates with the group but also highlights their struggles to cope with loss. This moment, while poignant, is overshadowed by Ginny's confrontation with the group after the funeral. "You all preferred to have a sad, small ceremony rather than let me honor Nick in my way!" she exclaims before storming out, leaving the group to reflect on their choices.
Meanwhile, the relationship between Kate and Jack is put to the test. Their bickering intensifies as they navigate their grief, culminating in a perilous situation when they search for the missing Ginny. The couple finds themselves on a frozen lake, leading to a dramatic moment when Kate falls through the ice. In a tense rescue, Jack recalls a history lesson about Napoleon's Battle of Austerlitz to guide Kate to safety. This near-death experience becomes a turning point for them, as they reconcile and Kate acknowledges Jack as her soulmate, a significant shift for a character who previously doubted the concept of soulmates.
In another subplot, Danny (Colman Domingo) and Claude's relationship faces its own challenges. While mourning Nick, Danny struggles to communicate his grief, and Claude's attempts to cheer him up fall flat. Their journey towards better communication is highlighted when they share a tender moment over a childhood drawing of Nick's daughter, Lila (Julia Lester), which serves as a reminder of the bonds they share.
As the narrative unfolds, Anne finds Ginny sitting alone outside the house, leading to a heartfelt conversation between the two women. Anne apologizes for her previous behavior, acknowledging that her actions stemmed from insecurity about Ginny's relationship with Nick. "I was wrong to exclude you from the funeral. I was afraid of what it would mean for me," she admits, paving the way for a new friendship built on understanding.
The finale wraps up with a toast to Nick, as the friends come together to honor his memory and plan future trips in his honor. However, the surprise revelation that Ginny is pregnant adds a new layer of complexity to the group's dynamics. As they raise their glasses, the tension lingers, leaving viewers to wonder how this new development will impact their relationships moving forward.
As the credits roll, the fate of the characters remains uncertain, sparking speculation about a potential second season. While there has been no official announcement yet, the creators of The Four Seasons have expressed hope for the show's continuation, leaving fans eager for more. The series has not only entertained but also provoked thought about the nature of friendship, love, and the inevitable changes that life brings.
In summary, The Four Seasons offers a rich tapestry of human emotions, deftly blending humor with tragedy. It highlights the importance of communication, understanding, and the bonds that hold friends together in the face of life's most challenging moments. With its relatable characters and engaging storyline, it stands out as a must-watch series for those looking to explore the intricacies of relationships.
