Apple TV+ has a new comedy series out on May 1st – TRYING and it tells the story of a young couple who are trying to have a baby – unsuccessfully. They then commit to trying to adopt and trying to prove they are worthy parents – you can see the apt name for the series here.
TRYING is a 30-minute, eight-episode series that will be arriving on Apple TV+ all in one go and subscribers to the streaming service will be able to binge-watch the show – be warned you will!
The series will pull viewers in from the onset, as the plot is enveloped in multiple layers and the show’s creator and writer of the series, Andy Wolton, has created a deep dive into so many different struggles the main characters are going through, but in a fun way.
It’s a series which many people will be able to relate to; whether they have had difficulties in conceiving; or adopting or even surviving transitioning into the complicated lives of an adult and what problems that may bring. The layers are peeled back from the two main characters, Nikki and Jason played by Esther Smith and Rafe Spall, who superbly deliver their roles and make the young couple so likeable, but more importantly, so relatable.
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Their modern love story is so poignant to life today, as they navigate what is important to them and what makes them happy. Their feelings of doubt about their abilities as adults, feelings of inadequacy about their jobs (she works at a call centre for a car rental company and he teaches English as a foreign language) are all interesting layers in the series that show their vulnerabilities and their endearing flaws.
In episode one, the audience meet Nikki (Esther Smith) and Jason (Rafe Spall) on a nighttime bus and their desperation to be parents is clear even from the first scene as she realises she’s almost missed her fertile window. She decides there’s no time to waste and the deed must be done right there, at that time – that is our introduction to the dysfunctional but completely adorable couple!
The show does serve up moments which evokes great sympathy for Nikki and Jason, as they see everyone around them with babies whilst they battle coping with a big, gaping, baby-shaped hole with not experiencing that joy for themselves. However, this show is a comedy, so it doesn’t dwell purely on their inability to conceive. They have dysfunctional friends, crazy families and lead chaotic lives and the show tells the story of all of those factors in the series too, which makes it so enjoyable to watch.
Moments where they fear their written list of issues and character flaws (on the back of the adoption form) has been posted to the adoption agency, bring in the fun factor and the ‘that’s the sort of thing I would do‘ moments are a delight to watch. They’re completely normal human beings and they comically embrace their own mistakes. This is where Rafe Spall and Esther Smith shine. It’s sometimes so easy to forget that these aren’t real people with real problems because their delivery of the engaging characters is so realistic. They wear their hearts on their sleeves and pull you in wishing you were part of their wild and crazy friendship group.
Speaking of said group, Spall and Smith are brilliantly supported on the screen by Ophelia Lovibond (Elementary) who delivers the giggles as Nikki’s pregnant friend. Imelda Staunton (Harry Potter) and Darren Boyd (Fortitude) are also ones to watch.
Aside from the terrific lead performances, director Jim O’Hanlon has also made the beautiful, scenic views of North London a real scene stealer. Shots of Camden town and Primrose Hill are sights to behold and are a big part of telling Nikki and Jason’s story.
Overall, TRYING is one of those shows where the characters are the huge driving force in the series. The super cast portray the trials and tribulations of impending parenthood, relationships, work and adult life with such brilliance across all scenarios. Where shows like GAVIN AND STACEY are successful is the audience’s love for the characters and TRYING does exactly the same. Their laughable mistakes are appealing and their honesty about their flaws is welcoming. Get ready to meet your new favourite TV couple.
Are you looking forward to watching TRYING? What do you think of the casting for the series? As always, we like to know what you think, so let us know your thoughts below, tweet us @filmandtvnow or leave a comment on our Facebook page.
Watch all episodes of TRYING on Apple TV+ May 1st.
