The Big Door Prize

As others have mentioned, if you're looking for an obvious "realist" explanation for anything here you'll probably not enjoy the ride. That's kinda the point. It's not totally surreal mind you, but there is a great deal of "suspension of disbelief", which will turn people off. For instance, It starts plot driven, but actually ends up being mostly character studies. And of course, not all characters are equally interesting...

However, some of the card reveals are quite intriguing, and there are enough chuckles along the way to make this a fun watch. Some ideas are well executed and remind me of the Oracle talking with Neo from The Matrix. Other times, the motivations or ideas are just a mess. (You'll know which episode I mean.)

I am usually let down by these multi-season puzzle shows, but knowing the pitfalls I still think it has potential.

Only three episodes have been released so it's too early to give a whole-hearted rating or review but here is what I can tell you right now. The townspeople are.mostly quirky and seemingly carefree for the most part which makes what starts to happen to them even more interesting. But I'm surprised this is called a comedy (even though there are some humorous moments) because there's something really weird going on in Deerfield.

The writing is good and the cliffhanger endings are great, making this a very bingeable show. The viewer will quickly become really curious to find out where the story is going. Since it's categorized as a "comedy", it can't get too dark- but it sure feels like it will go there. I'm a fan so far and intrigued almost as much as I was with Severance.

It starts off a bit slow but with so many characters invested in the story, it ramps up quickly. Really strong cast and great conversations about how people might react and perceive life changes when given one word. No spoiler alert, but the last word is very thought provoking. Great writers! Chris as always is such a wonderful, likeable person that is so gentle with his thoughts and words that I want to sit and have coffee with him. All the school students' different personalities and perspectives give the show a lot to work with in future episodes and I hope it keeps its momentum for more seasons.

So far I am really enjoying this show. The idea is relatively unique; it rather reminds me of something you might have seen on Twilight Zone years ago.

So far Apple TV has come up with some of the most original programs on TV today. Of course, not all have been winners, but most of them are creative and binge-worthy. There is a reason Apple has received so many Emmy nominations the past few years. They take chances instead of churning out the same old programming.

It might seem a bit slow in the beginning, but it is worth hanging in there, as there are some great characters and unexpected storylines. Of course, throughout, you are wondering, where did this machine come from and what is its purpose? Is that purpose for good or evil?

All that said, I have to say that even though I know it is a fantasy/sci-fi show, I really had a problem every time a customer typed in his/her Social Security number without hesitation. Now THAT is truly fantasy!

As other reviewers have mentioned, this really is not a comedy, so don't expect any great laughs. Just go with the flow and see where it takes you. It probably won't appeal to everyone, but it works for me.

I think most comments are missing the bigger point, are you missing out on your potential or life's dream? I find the show very interesting and plan to read the book. The machine is causing a midlife crisis, something we all will hit at some point in our lives. I love the cast and I'm on episode 6 and so far have found it funny and thought provoking.

The cards are giving the characters to opportunity to tap into parts of themselves they've suppressed. I have seen many couples who have been together for years and they mold themselves to be in the relationship sometimes ignoring their own desires. And it also shows that we choose to convince ourselves we don't want a certain path but indeed we do. Good show!