A new comedy production, 'Alice and Steve', is facing significant backlash from critics, who have described its central premise as 'dated' and 'wrong'. The show, which stars Jemaine Clement and Nicola Walker, centres on a midlife man's romantic involvement with his best friend's 26-year-old daughter, a narrative choice that has been widely condemned as 'icky' and 'pseudo-incestuous'.
Reviewers have not held back in their assessment of the new offering. One critic labelled the storyline 'interminable' and commented on the apparent discomfort of lead actor Jemaine Clement, suggesting he looked 'embarrassed' during the performance. The controversial plot point has been highlighted as particularly jarring, with critics expressing surprise at such a theme being explored in contemporary comedy.
The casting of well-known actors like Clement, famed for his work in 'Flight of the Conchords', and Nicola Walker, recognised for her roles in 'Unforgotten' and 'The Split', had initially generated interest. However, this star power appears insufficient to redeem a storyline that is being widely perceived as problematic and out of touch with modern sensibilities.
The show's critical reception raises questions about the creative decisions behind its production and its potential appeal to a modern audience. Critics argue that the premise feels more like a relic from a different era, rather than a fresh or relevant comedic exploration of relationships. The immediate and strong negative reaction suggests a significant misjudgement of audience expectations and current cultural sensitivities.
This critical drubbing puts 'Alice and Steve' in a difficult position as it looks to find an audience. The strong condemnation of its core narrative may deter viewers and lead to broader discussions within the entertainment industry about the types of stories being told and their appropriateness for contemporary audiences.