Unstable is a new Netflix comedy series from the creator of Better Off Ted, Victor Fresco, who collaborates with Rob Lowe and John Owen Lowe. The show follows biotech firm CEO Ellis Dragon, played by Rob Lowe, who is struggling with grief after the death of his wife. He starts to behave unpredictably and irrationally, which threatens the company’s stability, so his CFO, Anna, asks his son Jackson, played by John Owen Lowe, to return and help stabilise things. Although the show deals with grief, it has a light-hearted, humorous tone throughout.
The show’s humour is well-defined, with sharp writing, eccentric characters, and snappy comedic timing. It has a crackling combination that’s reminiscent of Better Off Ted. Unstable doesn’t go as deep as some dramas, but it doesn’t need to when it can deliver so many effective jokes. It’s a relief to watch a show that’s not trying to straddle the line between comedy and drama, and it has well-timed comic relief moments.
Despite dealing with grief, Unstable is never too heavy and keeps the tone light-hearted. Ellis’s bizarre behaviour adds to the comedy, but the show doesn’t explore Jackson’s feelings towards his mother’s death. The show focuses more on the evolving dynamic between father and son, and it’s a pleasure to watch Lowe’s and John Owen Lowe’s on-screen relationship. Unstable doesn’t have a character walk into a room without adding an unexpected element of humour, which sets the show apart from other comedies.
Unstable is a buoyant comedy with a well-defined sense of humour. Although it deals with grief, it has a light-hearted tone that makes it a joy to watch. The show’s humour is well-timed and doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is refreshing in today’s TV landscape. Lowe’s performance is a standout, but the supporting cast, particularly Sian Clifford, adds to the show’s charm. Overall, Unstable is a great comedy that’s well worth watching.
