What Went Wrong with Billy Crystal’s New Apple TV+ Show, "Before"?
Billy Crystal has been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for decades, known for his sharp wit and remarkable performances in films like “When Harry Met Sally.” However, his recent foray into television with the Apple TV+ series "Before" has not fared well at all. Critics are taking note, and the overwhelming consensus is that this show is a monumental disappointment.
“Before” follows Eli, a child psychiatrist played by Crystal, who is grappling with the loss of his wife while trying to help a troubled foster child named Noah. Despite its intriguing premise, the execution leaves much to be desired. The dialogue often falls flat, leading to head-scratching moments that distract rather than engage the audience. For instance, in a conversation about what makes him mad, Eli laments about people eating his popcorn in the movies. This trivial complaint strikes as bizarre and out of place, raising questions about the character's depth and the show’s overall tone.
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Critics have pointed out that the series seems to endlessly repeat itself, lacking the necessary narrative progression that keeps viewers engaged. Important scenes and character struggles are revisited without adding anything new or insightful, making it feel like viewers are trapped in a loop. The performances, while competent, cannot salvage the tedious storytelling. Even with a talented cast, including the likes of Rosie Perez and Judith Light, the series fails to utilize their potential, relegating them to roles that lack substance.
Another glaring issue is the show’s tonal inconsistencies. It attempts to blend drama, horror, and mystery, yet it fails to fully commit to any of these genres. The moments meant to evoke fear or suspense come off as clumsy and ineffective, making it difficult for audiences to connect emotionally with the characters or care about their fates. With a color palette that mirrors a gloomy Apple Store, the visual presentation adds to the overall sense of dread, yet not in a compelling way.
Moreover, the special effects are underwhelming, especially in the depiction of Noah’s hallucinations, which feature CGI tentacles that lack any real sense of menace or purpose. Instead of building tension, these visuals seem silly and poorly executed, detracting from what could have been a haunting aspect of the story.
Ultimately, the failure of "Before" is encapsulated in its inability to find clarity or coherence. The show plods along, trying to build a connection between Eli and Noah, but instead leaves viewers questioning the narrative choices and character motivations. Many have expressed their discontent with the series' conclusion, suggesting that it fails to provide the resolution that audiences expect from a well-crafted story. The prospect of a second season looms large, but after the first, many might find themselves hesitant to continue.
In a landscape rich with engaging content, "Before" stands as a cautionary tale about high expectations and the pitfalls of creative missteps. With such a storied career, it’s disheartening to see Billy Crystal associated with a project that seems destined to fade into obscurity. As fans of his work, we can only hope that his next endeavor will recapture the magic that made him a household name in the first place.
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