The Morning Show: How Stellar Performances Elevate a Predictable Drama

Critic Linda Zhuravleva highlights that Apple TV+'s new dramedy, The Morning Show, addresses significant themes but often feels predictable and somber.

Launched on November 1st across over 150 countries, including Russia, Apple TV+ introduced several original projects, among them the dramedy The Morning Show.

The story unfolds behind the scenes of the fictional UBA television network. Veteran anchor Alex Levy (Jennifer Aniston) arrives at work only to discover her co-host Mitch Kessler (Steve Carell) has been abruptly fired due to inappropriate workplace behavior.

New network executive Cory Ellison (Billy Crudup) views Kessler's dismissal as an opportunity to revitalize the struggling show. Consequently, Alex faces replacement by a younger, more assertive anchor—eccentric yet sincere journalist Bradley Jackson (Reese Witherspoon).

Feeling vulnerable and losing influence over the new management despite her stature, Alex takes desperate measures to secure her position.

The Morning Show is not the first series to explore the inner workings of television. Similar themes appeared in The Loudest Voice and The Newsroom. However, the creators meticulously approached their craft, consulting CNN reporter and host Brian Stelter, author of Top of the Morning.

The lead roles feature some of Hollywood's finest comedic talents—Steve Carell, Jennifer Aniston, and Reese Witherspoon. Witherspoon, known for her dramatic depth in independent films like Wild and the series Big Little Lies, brings a compelling presence. The blend of iconic comedy stars in a serious drama intrigued many potential viewers of the new platform.

A Nuanced Take on the #MeToo Movement

Several years ago, the global conversation around sexual harassment intensified, sparked by actress Ashley Judd's accusations against a renowned Hollywood producer. The resulting Weinstein effect led to numerous high-profile dismissals across major corporations.

While the #MeToo movement faced criticism for perceived witch hunts and challenges to the presumption of innocence, one fact remains clear: no amount of prestige can shield individuals from public condemnation when implicated in inappropriate conduct. Hollywood no longer tolerates sexual misconduct.

Challenges arise when beloved figures are at the center of scandals, as with Kevin Spacey. Similarly, Mitch Kessler's character faces swift and public repercussions. The network is eager to demonstrate accountability, regardless of whether the misconduct involved abuse of power, tactlessness, or workplace affairs.

The series commendably explores the potential excesses in combating harassment.

Could relatively innocent individuals be unfairly targeted? Will those harmed, like Mitch Kessler, remain silent for the greater good of creating a safer environment for women? Or will they strive to share their side of the story?

Outstanding Cast Amidst Unconvincing Dialogue

Aside from its thematic ambitions, the show struggles to stand out, often feeling derivative and laden with clichés. Talented actors sometimes seem constrained by forced and unnatural dialogue that occasionally resembles blunt political rhetoric.

For instance, a scene where a character dressed in bright red delivers a passionate speech among men in black appears intended as striking but comes across as heavy-handed and unrealistic. The accompanying pomp and pretentiousness undermine the authenticity of the moment.

Apple clearly invests heavily in its original series.

Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon reportedly earn $2 million per episode, with the first two seasons costing approximately $300 million in total.

These figures suggest Apple is deeply committed to the success of its productions. Whether The Morning Show will ultimately coalesce into a cohesive masterpiece remains to be seen, with the series’ conclusion likely revealing its true impact.

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