Ted Danson and Michael Schur have a rich history of delivering compelling and beloved television, most notably through their partnership in NBC’s acclaimed series “The Good Place.” Danson’s extensive career spans classics like “Cheers” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” while Schur has created hits like “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Parks and Recreation.” With such impressive backgrounds, anticipation was high for their latest collaboration, “A Man on the Inside,” now streaming on Netflix. However, the series does not quite capture the magic of their previous works.
Set in a San Francisco retirement home, “A Man on the Inside” features Danson in the role of Charles, a retired professor adjusting to life after the death of his wife. When he responds to a newspaper ad for a unique, casual investigative role, he gets involved in a mystery surrounding a stolen necklace. He teams up with private detective Julie, played by Lilah Richcreek Estrada, who needs someone over 70 to help with the case.
As Charles immerses himself in the vibrant community around him, he encounters quirky residents and rebuilds his relationship with his daughter, Emily. However, the storytelling feels disjointed, with multiple plots competing for attention without a clear resolution. Rather than a cohesive narrative, the series feels like a collection of scenes lacking a strong sense of direction.
Despite its shortcomings, “A Man on the Inside” does showcase moments of genuine beauty and emotional depth. There are glimmers of themes about life and aging that resonate well with viewers. Although the series struggles to fully realize its potential, it reflects a broader, positive trend in Hollywood toward portraying diverse and meaningful stories about older characters. Shows like “Grace and Frankie” and “Hacks” have begun to challenge stereotypes associated with aging, indicating a shift towards more nuanced storytelling.
Although “Inside” may not live up to the high expectations set by Danson and Schur’s previous successes, it leaves room for optimism. With the right focus and execution, future collaborations between these two talented creators could result in more fully developed narratives that delve deeper into the complexities of life, giving audiences the delightful content they have come to expect.