MovieChat Forums > Flaked (2016) Discussion > Flaked is strangely compelling

Flaked is strangely compelling

posted 8 years ago by willsons-2
6 replies | jump to latest

I finished watching season 1 in less than 24 hours. I enjoyed it but here is the thing...I really do not know why.

It is not particularly funny, although it has its moments. I would not call it a comedy. There was some drama but I would not call it a drama. The twist at the end was surprising but only serves to raise so many more questions.

Maybe the characters intrigued me. On the surface they appeared to be superficial and yet are really quite complex.

I am usually way more articulate as to why I like/dislike something and this show has me befuddled. Why do I like it? I really do not know. I just did.

Can anyone else relate?

[–] rzaxlash 8 years ago

I completely agree, 100 percent. I did not know what to expect, thought I was surprised how much more dramatic this show is. I initially disliked it and pretty much hated every character but I found myself drawn to continue watching. I'm nwo on episode 7 and while I can't say I Love it, I definitely don't hate it, and I can't quite put into words what I like about it. I do enjoy the Venice beach landscapes, the humanity of the characters and the light but not empty tone of the show.

[–] Jshjshjsh 8 years ago

I think you like it because the writing and acting is real and good. It's how people really act in life. There are some stretches (like Tilly actually committing the manslaughter) but they are really talking and listening to each other. This doesn't always happen in TV land and when it does, it's quite special.

[–] Sluggr-3 8 years ago

As someone in recovery for 32 years, it is a dark comedy at best, and recovery programs use humor about dark subjects to deal with the pain associated with recovery. The stuff we laugh at, now that we are beyond it, would shock normal people to no end.

Was turned onto "Mom" a month ago and have now plowed through the 70 episodes. It is 10X the 12-step related show that Flaked is in terms of actual program people and personalities. It is also way more comedic and frustrating because certain characters are either not in recovery at all or are struggling on all 8 cylinders.

The main issue for me in Flaked is Chip not adhering to the "To Thine Own Self be True" mantra. To me it is right up there with Day at a Time as a practice necessary for long term recovery success. Just as Noah and Helen not coming clean, Chip will continue to struggle and relapse because "the lie" is simply not consistent with a program of recovery and it will be the source of continual drama and conflict and disappointment. The lie was "the easier softer way."

My Chimp DNA seems to have lost its password temporarily. Sluggr-2

[–] hoov-4 8 years ago

Well put, willsons. I love it because I'm a huge Will Arnett fan. I love the entire cast. I recall Robert Wisdom from the Wire he's a solid actor and I love Ruth Kearny as well. I think where they film it the environment is a strong sell for the show, it's eclectic. And when Kirstie Alley showed up that one episode she elevated the show dramatically.

[–] Knish30 (15) 7 years ago

I like it because of the location and the character chip (and the show itself) have this relaxed attitude. It's just him riding around on his bike feeling good looking cool.

When it gets too sentimental, it loses its way tbh and the show doesn't have that quality anymore and goes up it's own ass.

[–] Mtvfig1 (2) 7 years ago

I agree with you. I can't quite put my finger in it. It's not a comedy or a drama. But as a slice of life I really enjoy it.

I think I envy living in Venice like that. That would be great. Chip seems like somebody cool to hang out with.

Although the homeless thing really weighed on me. I need chip and Cooler to get jobs and a place. And a shower. 😀

Along with the drama, I kept thinking where is he going to sleep tonight.