The chemistry is palpable in ‘Platonic,’ both between the lead characters and the cast bringing the series to life. Seth Rogen, currently enjoying success with ‘The Studio,’ reunites with Rose Byrne, with whom he previously starred in ‘Neighbors’ and its sequel. But the familiarity extends behind the camera as well.
The creators of this Apple TV+ comedy are none other than Nicholas Stoller (director of the aforementioned ‘Neighbors’) and Francesca Delbanco, his wife and writing partner on ‘Friends from College.’ This isn’t new territory for either of them. And that experience is invaluable when exploring themes of relationships, love, and life in general.
‘Platonic’ introduces us to two characters. Will, played by Rogen, owns a brewery and, from the outset, doesn’t seem to be the most mature person in the room. And Byrne is Sylvia, a woman who stepped away from her career to raise children who no longer need her as much, leaving her unsure of what to do with her life. Adding to the complexity: they were best friends in their youth, but drifted apart because Sylvia disapproved of Will’s girlfriend. Now, with his divorce finalized, they reconnect.
When Sylvia learns of Will’s separation, her husband encourages her to reach out, raising a question that will linger throughout the series: can a man and a woman, beyond their youthful years, possess the maturity for a platonic friendship without it being considered strange? And, of course, the series title itself begs the question: how platonic *is* their relationship, and will it cross the line into romance?
While the potential romance drives the narrative, the series may simply be a vehicle to explore deeper themes. Primarily, the midlife crisis – that moment when life settles down, but excitement fades. We’re invited to accompany them in their boredom or their impulsive attempts to escape it.
‘Platonic’ isn’t aiming for a high-concept comedy, but rather a more grounded, albeit occasionally outlandish, series that relies heavily on the chemistry of its lead actors (supported by a strong supporting cast) and their willingness to embrace physical gags and silliness that distract us until, unexpectedly, it resonates with our own experiences.
The series offers a refreshing take on relationships beyond marriage, transforming a place as unromantic as Los Angeles into a surprisingly relatable setting. It’s no surprise that its first season, released in 2023, garnered a 93% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and the second, in 2025, achieved a perfect 100%. This success aligns with the critical acclaim of other standout series like ‘Adolescence’ (97%) and ‘The Studio’ (92%).
I was born on Wisteria Lane, shared an apartment with Hannah Horvath, and was captivated by ‘Chicago’ because I *am* Roxie Hart. I have a sharp tongue, but, as Lola Flores said, “they should have given me a grant for my joy.”
