atypical review

Netflix’s Atypical Review: A show that breathes emotional realism into a TV family

Netflix family comedy Atypical is different from anything else on TV while still keeping what works. This is our Atypical review for Season 1

atypical review

Netflix’s Atypical was always going to raise eyebrows and cause a bit of a stir. The comedy/ family drama where the main character is an 18-year-old on the Autism spectrum. While some raised concerns, others found the representation accurate and helpful. In terms of storyline and overall entertainment? Let’s dive into our Atypical review.

Atypical review: Season 1

Season 1 consists of eight 30 minute episodes. Atypical was also recently renewed by Netflix for a 10-episode 2nd season.

Atypical is a coming of age story that follows Sam (played by Keir Gilchrist), an 18-year-old on the autistic spectrum as he searches for love and independence. While Sam is on his funny yet emotional journey of self-discovery, the rest of his family must grapple with change in their own lives as they all struggle with the central theme: what does it really mean to be normal?

Jennifer Jason Leigh stars as his mother, Elsa, who is on her own journey of self-discovery. Michael Rapaport plays his father, Doug. Brigette Lundy-Paine (Margot vs Lily, The Glass Castle) plays Sam’s sister Casey.

Atypical’s Sam may be autistic and have a brilliant story but the show doesn’t rely on him to keep things moving. Every single one of the family members have their own story to tell, and boy are they told well.

Lundy-Paine’s performance as Casey is brilliant and her story shows what it really means to be “underappreciated” in a family that isn’t part of the TV mainstream. Her relationships and personal goals will leave you valuing her character just as much as Sam, if not more.

While not as exceptional, parents Elsa and Doug’s issues will have you transfixed and pondering their actions as if they were your own.

Should you watch Atypical?

If you enjoy watching shows that make you feel a range of emotions in one episode, then Atypical is perfect for you. You will learn so much about the autism spectrum all while seeing a family that simply doesn’t make it into other TV shows.

From teenage love stories told differently, to two parents struggling to break out of a monotonous cycle that many adults would understand. Atypical is an emotional comedy that has depth and character nuance that every top show has.

Sit down one weekend and binge watch this show. You’ll thank us later.

SCORE: 4.5 out of 5 (Check out the trailer below)