“Shrinking”: a light-hearted approach to therapy
The series “Shrinking”, broadcast on Apple TV+, succeeds in the audacious challenge of talking about psychology and grief with humor and kindness. A televisual gem that normalizes the need to see a shrink, without ever sinking into pathos.
A dramatic comedy with a brilliant cast
Created by Jason Segel, Brett Goldstein and Bill Lawrence, Shrinking has established itself as one of the most refreshing series of the moment. Bill Lawrence, who also created the excellent Ted Lasso, applies the same recipe here: fine writing, deep characters and chiseled dialogue.
Available on Apple TV+ since January 2023, the series returned this winter with an equally successful second season. Between bursts of laughter and moments of emotion, it features an unconventional psychologist, played by Jason Segel, who tries to treat his patients while dealing with his own grief. At his side is a grumpy but endearing Harrison Ford, who plays his mentor, skeptical of his unorthodox methods.
A “shrink” adrift
The word shrink refers to a shrink. The one we follow here is Jimmy, a forty-something therapist who tries to help his patients despite his own grief. After losing his wife Tia in a car accident, he finds it hard to remain professional, and starts experimenting with a radically different approach. He becomes personally involved in his patients’ lives, even inviting himself into their homes or taking them in. He broke with the traditional codes of therapy by intervening directly in their decisions. His methods, while questionable, sometimes prove curiously effective.
This offbeat posture gives rise to situations that are as funny as they are touching, while highlighting psychological disorders such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety and emotional dependency.
Endearing, well-written characters
Beyond Jimmy, the series excels in building its secondary characters. Paul (Harrison Ford): a gruff, experienced psychiatrist who hides a big heart beneath his stern exterior. Alice (Lukita Maxwell): Jimmy’s daughter, much more mature than her father. Liz (Christa Miller): the intrusive but endearing neighbor, who could well be the modern version of the mean girl.
Each character brings his or her own dynamic, making the series deeply human and warm.
A third season awaits
After two seasons full of caring and comfort, Shrinking has been renewed for a third season, as Christa Miller confirmed on her Instagram account. Filming will take place in Los Angeles, including Pasadena and Altadena, recently hit by wildfires.
With its resolutely feel-good tone and original approach to therapy, Shrinking is a series not to be missed.
📺 Shrinking, with Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, available on Apple TV+.
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