The Lovers

Funny as hell, serious without being melodramatic. Sensitive, awkward, unexpected at times, honest, witty, blunt, intelligent

The chemistry between the two protagonists is magnetic. You can actually feel the desire and longing they have for one another .I was literally holding my breath at certain moments while they were gazing at each other's eyes.

The filming and location is beautiful, especially Ireland. The pacing is quick, except for the last episode, in my opinion of course

I am guessing that season two (if there will be one) will pursue the things that divide them, religion, politics, even more.

Despite the title and the poster it's not super romantic, traditionally. Less cute romcom, more chaotic romcom. Generally speaking, it gets better as it goes, especially once you get acquainted with the characters. The main character, in particular, takes a while to warm up to, even now that I've finished the season. However, he does feel like a genuinely relatable person, or like a real person, and that's a good thing. It's not as if he was written to be anything other than himself. The tension between the two main characters felt awkward, yet it seemed realistic and added to the authenticity of the show.

The story isn't overly complex or convoluted. You can sense a twist coming later on, but it's not grandiose or mind-blowing, but it maintains a believable quality. The humor isn't riotous, but it does have a simple genuine feel. British humor. Music is occasionally used to enhance this, especially in the first episode. Towards the end, it's less about humor and more about the affair, the show's vibe keeps a balanced tone without going overboard. The series doesn't try to do too much in general.

If you're not accustomed to watching British sitcoms like this, I'd recommend starting with something like "Catastrophe" first. It's a better introduction and helps you get accustomed to the humor and style. The title "The Lovers" can be a bit misleading, so if the first episode doesn't resonate with you, it's probably best to skip the rest. However, if you do like it, then by all means, continue watching. I think the first episode's a good test.

I suspect whether you feel the chemistry or not depends a lot on your personal experiences in life. And I imagine if one never fell for a damaged person then the character of Janet would be alienating to them. (I mention Janet because she's the one I fell irrevocably and utterly in love with :) ; kudos, Róisín, you did a great job) It's a British rom-com that gave me lots of laughs, although it's not only that. There's a darker side to it, given the setting. But still, it is a rom-com, and a successful at that. I enjoyed the humour, the acting, the pace. Episode 5, which had to introduce the darker side, was lacking a little in chemistry, but eventually things went the proper, cliché way as they should.

Life is random and meaningless, anyway. (A philosophical statement that happens to be mentioned in the series during a celebration.)

I watched the first episode and it took me a while to really enjoy it. So if you watch the complete first episode and it didn't click for you, stop watching it; otherwise, you'll probably binge-watch the whole series, so make sure you start it on a time and day you don't have to deprive yourself of sleep.

Unbelievably reassuring of the reality of love at first sight. Both lead actors are perfectly cast in a slightly deviated form of the classic romcom genre.

After just the first 3 episodes, (half) I am hooked and I only never binged the series as It was so late I just had to tear myself away.

I'm confident however, that the entire series will keep folk hooked as much as it has me. And I'm fairly sure that I am indeed in love with Roisin Gallagher now. Both lead characters carry the show and the wonderful Alice Eve also adds a certain something with some excellent dialogue.

Watch it, you won't be disappointed, and here's hoping there's a season 2 in the offing!

This show is fantastic. It's one of those shows where the acting absolutely makes or breaks it, and in this case it soars. Not that the writing isn't good, because it is, but in the hands of lesser actors it could have come off as corny or wooden. Luckily, Johnny Flynn and Roisin Gallagher have amazing chemistry and do so much to convey awkwardness, longing and nervousness. The effect is absolutely charming. The added political implications of the Belfast setting (no spoilers!) helps to add a bit of depth to the story and will hopefully provide more layers to be explored in Season 2. I would personally love to come back to these characters and see where the story takes them next, especially after the events of the finale.

I cannot recommend this show enough. It's a sweet story of two people from different backgrounds, and I promise you the acting is worth it. I was enchanted throughout.