While episode 1 has introduced us to a dozen characters, “Wanderlust” lets loose a bit in its second hour. Alan, who has been reluctant first, finds a companion in his colleague from school (a wonderful performance by Zawe Ashton), while Joy’s fling with a policeman ends faster than it has started. We learn more about their children’s lives – and they ultimately find out more about their parent’s lives, although not in the matter they have planned to let them know. It was refreshing that the series took turns faster than expected. It also keeps a nice balance of light jokes and serious conversations, thanks to the great writing by Nick Payne.
Yesterday, after a BBC broadcast earlier last month, Netflix premiered all 6 episodes of “Wanderlust”. So, over the next six updates, we’ll cover each episode with background information and screencaptures. Two things need to be said: Toni Collette is at the height of her career right now, it’s amazing to have two powerhouse performances with “Hereditary” and now “Wanderlust”. Recognition is not often the reward for great talent, but I really hope that Toni will receive some accolades for either parts next awards season. Second, the British press did a terrible job by promoting “Wanderlust” as “outrageous”, “nasty” and “bizarre”. None of this applies, it probably simply scared away the audience it deserves. In comparison, Netflix did no promotion whatsoever for the show, no talkshow appearances or press coverage, so I hope it doesn’t fly under the radar, because it deserves better. In episode one, we get to know Joy and Alan – a therapist and a teacher – married for over 20 years, who decide to open up their marriage and seeing different people while staying together.