Afterlife
Peter, a deceased Filipino-Chinese businessman, returns as a ghost and is bonded to Romy, a Filipino caretaker of a columbarium. He discovers that his family declared his death a suicide which is most unlikely of him. Not able to recall how he really died, he sets out for the truth with the help of Romy. They do not expect the complexity of what unravels. Set in the heart of Manila's vibrant Chinatown, After Life is a dark drama with Shakespearean complexities of family dysfunction, untold secrets, greed and deceit. It thrusts us into the spicy play of Chinese and Filipino cultures, and their socio-political dynamics. It is a story of an unsettled soul, it is also a poignant tale of two fathers, trying their best to mend what has been broken in their relationships. As it unfolds, they learn to let of the pride that weighs them down in order to protect what truly matters in the end.
Insights
Plot Summary
Tony, a local newspaper journalist, struggles to cope with the death of his wife, Lisa. Initially, he considers ending his life but decides to live on, punishing the world for his grief by saying and doing whatever he wants. As he navigates his pain, he finds that his friends and colleagues try to help him, and he begins to question if he should be kinder.
Critical Reception
After Life received generally positive reviews, with critics praising Ricky Gervais's performance and the show's blend of humor and pathos. While some found its tone occasionally uneven, many appreciated its honest exploration of grief and human connection. Audience reception was also strong, resonating with viewers who connected with its relatable portrayal of loss and the search for meaning.
What Reviewers Say
- A raw and honest portrayal of grief with surprising moments of warmth and humor.
- Ricky Gervais delivers a poignant and often hilarious performance.
- The show balances its dark subject matter with hopeful messages about friendship and finding joy.
Google audience: Viewers often praise the show's emotional honesty, finding it both heartbreaking and uplifting. Many appreciate Ricky Gervais's writing and performance, with comments frequently highlighting the show's ability to make them laugh and cry simultaneously. Some viewers also enjoy the ensemble cast and the realistic portrayal of coping with loss.
Fun Fact
Ricky Gervais originally envisioned 'After Life' as a movie, but the extensive exploration of Tony's grief and recovery led him to develop it into a television series.
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