Monday, January 2, 2023

What I’m Watching: Fleishman is in Trouble (Series Finale)

Fleishman is in Trouble: Season 1, Episode 8 “The Liver” (B)

This show has been one of the most interesting series I’ve watched in a while, and that makes this final episode a bit of a letdown. It felt strange to not see Rachel at all aside from that closing moment after the superb showcase she got in the previous episode, and I wish that this could have been a longer series rather than just a limited series, though I guess it’s still possible that more episodes could be commissioned if it’s viewed as a success. Shifting into “I could not tell you what Toby did next” was an unexpected transition since he’s always been the focus of the show, but Libby took over with her own problems and finding a way to get back into the rhythm of a life she had all but abandoned. Telling Toby that she was writing a book about him and him acknowledging that he hadn’t been a good friend to her lately was a worthwhile moment, especially as they both managed to be lackluster friends for Seth when he wanted them to be there and happy for them as he proposed to Vanessa at the party. The interpersonal relationships on this show have been fascinating, as have the smaller moments, like Hannah deciding she doesn’t want a Bat Mitzvah and Toby explaining to her why he believes it’s important. This was a perfect role for Jesse Eisenberg and I’m just as pleased to see Lizzy Caplan get a terrific part, along with Claire Danes, Adam Brody, and Josh Radnor. Despite this finale not feeling like the conclusion the show deserved, I will remember it quite fondly and sing its praises heading into Emmy season.

Series grade: A-
Series MVP: Jesse Eisenberg

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