Still Up

It tries too hard to be quirky but instead you realize the two main characters are completely reprehensible and narcissistic. There is only one episode that shines but even that was ruined by one scene that was supposed to be funny but came off as mean and even offensive (the finger). Horrible show and I regret watching all the episodes. What a wasted premise. I really thought it would get better but it progressively got worse. The last episode made me hate the female lead even more - she joined a sleep study but not only kept using her iPhone but bothered everyone else in the clinic. There is only one likable character (the helpful gay neighbor) and he's treated as nothing more than a plot device. Still Up is a complete misfire and stands out as one of the worst shows on Apple TV (and that's saying a lot).

I randomly came across this on Apple TV and after a quick trailer sneak peak I decided to give it a go. By episode 2 I was smitten. The main characters are absolutely adorable, the story isn't predictable in any way even though you kind of know what the finish line is, or at least hope it is. It would be pointless to give any spoilers. It's an easy watch comedy series that's light and cute and everything you would need to just sit back and enjoy it. Craig Roberts and Antonia Thomas give such amazing chemistry that the conversation between them is sufficient in every way to keep you engaged and wanting more. Loved it. Want more.

What if you take "You Got Mail" and gave them iPhones so the main characters can FaceTime each other? Oh and Meg had insomnia so she only called Tom at night? This quirky romantic comedy has interesting characters and takes you on a ride of two people who have a complicated relationship but relies on each other! Outside of the main characters the supporting cast are amusing and provide an extra giggle. Some of the antics you have to suspend disbelief for but I found myself always wanting to know what happens next plus the ultimate question of will love conquer all, will they be happy together?

I'm frankly stunned at the low scores been given to this show.

Still Up walks a familiar path of the will-they-won't-they of two close friends who clearly have an underlying romantic chemistry as yet unrealised. The differentiating quirk is that they're both insomniacs, so spend a lot of time in each others lives when the world is asleep. It's not a secret friendship, so there's no immediate jealous-partner dynamic. A neat little set-up, given a boost by Apples strong production values.

The two leads give great performances. Antonia and Craig both knock it out of the park. I believe their characters and their feelings, as well as their friendship, so a big tick there. The supporting cast are good, despite being asked to play intentionally annoying characters (I hate Veggie's parents, but I'm supposed to)

Along the way of expected back-firing advice and awkward misunderstandings, there are also moments of genuine heart, sold straight down the line with no cheesy feeling of breaking the tone of the show. These are two people who laugh and cry with each other, and capture that sense of needing to speak to your special people on a regular basis.

If I were to have a nit-pick, it would be that I don't know how Danny affords such a nice flat as an online magazine journalist.

Is it setting the world on fire? - No Does it deserve the bombing scores it's been given? - Absolutely not Is it a great little series to binge this winter snuggled up under a duvet? - Yes.

The title says it all!

I think a bunch of "Yelp Reviewer"-types, snobs on their high horse, expect an absolute cinematic masterpiece with gripping plots acted out by Daniel Day Lewis and Meryl Streep and have consequentially tanked this unique diamond-in-the-rough show's rating. If it weren't for the 1-2/10's I'd probably rate it a 7/10.

If you want an easy-to-watch, lighthearted show then this is a great one! It's no Twin Peaks, Jack Ryan nor Joe Pickett (not E P I C). But consider this...it's primarily a show about 2 seemingly different individuals FaceTiming each other in the dead of the night - this is where a majority of the show takes place! That's not a lot to work with.

These 2 characters befriend one another merely out of their shared experience, their struggles with insomnia. Despite their differing demeanors, they have a a tight bond and a surprisingly great dynamic. It's not the most exciting thing, but it's a pleasant, soothing show with a premise moved by silly, trivial happenings in their lives that many would consider forgettable, casual yet relatable events. I appreciate that!

If you're looking for something more compelling then this is not for you. I personally look forward to a season 2. My hope is that they really expand on the background characters - I quite enjoyed Danny's eccentric neighbors! It'd be great if a few more characters are brought into the mix (perhaps more grounded ones), as the plot slips into the real world (based on the ending).