The Four Seasons is a comedy-drama series based on the 1981 film by Alan Alda. Created by Tina Fey, Lang Fisher, and Tracey Wigfield—renowned for shows like 30 Rock and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt—the production explores the complexities of long-standing friendships, romantic relationships, and emotional growth.
The story follows three couples who meet four times a year for seasonal getaways. But this tradition is shaken by an unexpected change: one of the couples announces their separation at the first gathering, changing everyone’s destiny.
Filmed in the spring and summer of 2024 in locations such as New York, Vassar College, Mount Peter, and Puerto Rico, the series features eight episodes of approximately 27 to 35 minutes. It aims to balance light-hearted humor with deep reflections on human bonds.
A high-level production with incredible direction
The Four Seasons features a diverse directing team, ensuring different tones in each episode:
– Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini directed the first two episodes.
– Oz Rodriguez took on episodes 3 and 4.
– Jeff Richmond, Tina Fey’s husband and frequent collaborator, directed episode 5.
– Colman Domingo, who also acts in the show, directed episode 6, bringing valuable internal perspective.
– Lang Fisher, one of the creators, directed the final two episodes.
The direction maintains the warm atmosphere Fey envisioned: “I hope the audience feels like they’re wrapped in a big sweater with us.” The series blends natural settings with the intimacy of lakeside, beachside, and mountain conversations — resulting in a comforting and touching visual, especially when paired with Jeff Richmond’s music.
Get to know the cast
The Four Seasons unfolds over a year, with four seasonal trips reuniting the friends:
1 – Lake House (Spring): Kate (Tina Fey) and Jack (Will Forte), Nick (Steve Carell) and Anne (Kerri Kenney-Silver), Danny (Colman Domingo) and Claude (Marco Calvani) gather at a lakeside house. But Nick shocks everyone by announcing the end of his marriage and that he’s bringing along a younger girlfriend.
2 – Garden Party (Summer): Ginny (Erika Henningsen) is sent in as a replacement and organizes a weekend at an eco-resort. The atmosphere turns tense: jealousy, discomfort, and natural curiosity about the group’s new dynamics arise.
3 – Family Weekend (Fall): The group returns to the college where they met. There, truths surface — especially a conflict between Anne and Ginny, and growing tension between Kate and Jack, reflecting long-term marital struggles.
4 – Ski Trip & Fun (Winter): On a ski trip, Nick has a fatal accident. The tragedy ends their vacation pact and leaves the group devastated. To further the emotional impact, Ginny reveals she is pregnant with Nick’s child.
The plot grows from light to intense: each season brings conflicts and revelations that test friendship, love, and loyalty between well-developed and emotionally rich characters.
Cast and Characters
Tina Fey (Kate): A veteran comedian and producer, Fey plays Kate, Jack’s wife. Her credits include 30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and guest appearances on Only Murders in the Building. Here, she blends humor and vulnerability, portraying marital tensions.
Will Forte (Jack): Kate’s partner, brings charisma from Saturday Night Live and Last Man on Earth. He reinforces the dynamic of the central trio.
Steve Carell (Nick): Known for The Office, Date Night, and The Morning Show, Carell plays Nick, whose divorce and new chapter deeply impact the group.
Kerri Kenney-Silver (Anne): Nick’s ex-wife, famous for Reno 911! and other comedies. In the series, she faces separation, jealousy, and insecurity.
Colman Domingo (Danny): An award-winning actor (Euphoria, Rustin), he plays Danny, Claude’s husband. He also directs episode 6, offering internal emotional depth.
Marco Calvani (Claude): Danny’s husband. He provides balance in the group’s dynamics and adds nuance to the couple’s tension.
Erika Henningsen (Ginny): Nick’s new girlfriend. Her age difference creates tension with Anne. Henningsen is recognized for her work on Broadway musicals.
Supporting characters include Julia Lester and Alan Alda (as Don, Anne’s father), Ashlyn Maddox, Taylor Ortega, and others, who appear in brief sequences that subtly influence the narrative and setting.
Fun facts about the series
The show diverges from the original film by adding realistic drama — particularly Nick’s death in the winter, which didn’t happen in the 1981 movie — to reflect real-life challenges of midlife and friendship.
Actor-led direction: Colman Domingo directed an episode, exemplifying the creative collaboration among cast members — something that strengthens the authenticity of performances.
5 Reasons to Watch
Authentic tone: It naturally blends humor, drama, and emotion. Critics have noted that while it’s not as satirical as The White Lotus, it delivers “touching moments” and scored 78% on Rotten Tomatoes.
2 – Renowned cast: With Tina Fey and Steve Carell leading, alongside Colman Domingo and Will Forte, the cast already draws attention thanks to their comedic and dramatic range.
3 – Contemporary writing: The creators — veterans of acclaimed comedies—approach adult friendships with honesty and lightness in equal measure.
4 – Comforting visual style: The production makes full use of natural scenery and a warm, cozy soundtrack. The show’s title pays tribute to the “seasons,” creating an emotional and soothing atmosphere.
5 – A surprising ending: By choosing a tragic and realistic direction, the series subverts expectations and generates genuine anticipation for season two—a renewal that promises further character development.
Download YouCine and watch The Four Seasons online
The Four Seasons is a light and thoughtful production that dives deep into the bonds of long-term friendship. Balancing comedy and drama, the series offers an engaging experience for those who appreciate sincere storytelling and mature themes.
For those already following the story, the confirmation of a second season builds anticipation, promising to further explore the consequences of an unexpected loss. The swift renewal confirms its audience success and gives hope for more emotional chapters ahead.
If you’re looking for a warm, heartfelt series with a strong cast, short episodes, and an emotionally honest tone to binge-watch, The Four Seasons is an excellent choice. And since you’re looking for where to stream it, download and watch it now on YouCine — enjoy this human portrait in motion through the seasons of life.