Six Zeros

Back in the 1930s there was the anthology movie If I Had a Million, and in the.1950s there was the TV series The Millionaire, about people who are suddenly given a million dollars by an eccentric tycoon and how the money affects them in their particular situations. Six Zeroes uses a similar device, but the characters are lottery winners and in order to save them from regrettable impulses, they're required by some regulation to attend counseling sessions before they receive the money. Is there such a regulation anywhere? If there isn't, there should be. Anyway, besides being about the people who attend the counseling, the series is also about the counselor, who has problems of her own. (Maybe that idea came from the TV series In Therapy?)

The lottery winnings are a McGuffin that serves to reveal the characters and their personal problems in some depth, and actors put the characters across quite forcefully, on the basis of a script that doesn't shrink from some uncomfortable scenes. I can imagine that likely this will be another Israeli series picked up for adaptation in other markets.

The show captures the hectic life in Israel, the need to fit in not just in society but in our own family. Relationships are put to the test when six characters are met with a life changing event and their lives spiral beyond their control. The show is often darkly humorous, and at times, gets under your skin. The actors did a great job portraying characters in their most vulnerable moments. This is not a show for kids as it deals with mature themes, some sexuality as well as a very challenging point of view on friendships, family and relationships. Captivating show from start to finish with a wonderful concept and performances.

The narrative is supported by a strong script and a talented cast - after all, these are the two elements that truly matter for a successful outcome. A bit of comedy blends with larger doses of drama and some philosophy. There is also a tone of a moral tale. There are eight episodes, but they are worth the journey. Does money really bring happiness? This question lingers throughout the entire plot. Fortunately, does not attempt to answer it with a single, monolithic, simplistic, and definitive response. The characters have different ages and personal conflicts. They also think in diverse ways. They are united solely by chance. The charm of the series lies in this encounter of personalities. The fortune they have won will have a different effect on each of them. In other words, the happiness that money brings is relative, variable, and deeply personal. The series reflects this. Some characters are more positive than others, but there is no classic villain - the main common antagonist is the delay and bureaucracy in receiving the money. The tension builds up, and the plot keeps the audience engaged until the very end.