Colman Domingo Shines in New Comedy Series 'The Four Seasons'

Colman Domingo's "Revelatory" Performance in Netflix's The Four Seasons

Colman Domingo delivers a standout performance in the new Netflix comedy series "The Four Seasons," helmed by the talented Tina Fey. The series, described as both "moving and messy," showcases the intricate dynamics of friendship and love among three affluent couples in their fifties.

The eight-part miniseries is a fresh adaptation of the 1981 comedy film by Carol Burnett. It explores the lives of these lifelong friends who regularly escape for weekend getaways. However, the stability of their camaraderie is tested when one couple decides to divorce, stirring the calm waters of their relationships.

Colman Domingo, known for his roles in "Sing Sing" and "Euphoria," stars as Danny, a "fun and flirty" gay man. His character is part of a reimagined couple in the series, paired with his Italian husband Claude, portrayed by Marco Calvani, the director of "High Tide." This fresh take presents Danny and Claude as a gay couple, a twist on the original male-female relationship featured in the film.

Reflecting on the adaptation, Domingo shared with Netflix's Tudum, "I love that these characters are based on the original, but with a modern and significant twist. In the current series, Danny and Claude bring a refreshing representation of a loving, long-term gay relationship."

The series also stars Tina Fey alongside Will Forte as Kate and Jack, while Kerri Kenney-Silver and Steve Carell take on the roles of Anne and Nick. Each couple brings their own unique dynamic to the show, contributing to both the humor and drama of the storyline.

While the series has received mixed reviews overall, Domingo's performance has been a highlight. The Guardian's Lucy Mangan awarded the series four stars, noting Domingo's portrayal as "revelatory" and suggesting that his time for headline-worthy television roles has finally arrived.

David Opie from Digital Spy praised the chemistry between Domingo and Calvani, describing them as "endlessly charming together." The series is recognized for its "much-needed and sadly rare look at what long-term love can look like for middle-aged gay men."

Comparisons have been made between "The Four Seasons" and HBO’s "The White Lotus," due to their shared theme of couples' vacations marred by unexpected drama. However, Fey's adaptation remains light-hearted and breezy in contrast to the darker tone of its counterpart.

Domingo expressed his delight in taking on a comedic role, stating in an interview with Decider, "Audiences have seen me in horror, drama, and tragedy. This series allows me to laugh, don cute sweaters, engage in witty banter, and enjoy leisurely meals. It's a refreshing change of pace."

Alongside acting, Domingo also took on the role of director for the sixth episode, adding another feather to his cap. "Directing was a gift," he remarked, "The opportunity to delve into the subtleties of relationships and their complexities is fascinating. It's less about dramatic swings and more about the nuances within friendships and familial bonds."

Domingo and Calvani share a strong rapport both on and off screen, as noted in their discussions with Tudum. Domingo expressed his appreciation for Calvani, saying, "He is someone I am comfortable with, both physically and emotionally." Calvani reciprocated, "Working with him was a pleasure. His care for the character and our scenes allowed me to perform with a sense of freedom and security."

"The Four Seasons" is now available for streaming on Netflix. It invites viewers to explore the intricate and often humorous dynamics of long-standing friendships and relationships. Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.