Almost There

Almost There is a television series that premiered in 2015 on Audience Network, a branch of DirecTV. The show navigates the romantic comedy genre and promises a uniquely fresh perspective on relationships and modern dating.

The series revolves around the life of a 30-year-old single man named Jackson. He's a non-nonsense, commitment-averse man who lives his life completely submersed in his burgeoning career as a promising therapist. Jackson has a well-intentioned, though slightly overbearing mother who hopes to see her son settled down and married off soon due to societal pressures.

Jackson, however, is navigating life at his own pace. Despite his mother's nagging, he prefers singles activities and casual dating over any form of commitment. This spontaneous lifestyle is upturned with the entrance of Alexandra, a charming SOMA restaurateur. Alex confesses to being in a failing marriage. Jackson and Alex share an illuminating instant chemistry that threatens to unsettle Jackson's free-spirited life. Their fluctuating relationship forms the crux of the storyline.

Almost There also features a quirky supporting cast that includes Jackson's three best friends. They provide comic relief and offer a kaleidoscopically humorous view of his life. In between managing his fledgling career and awkward romantic liaisons with his clientele, Jackson battles with his feelings for Alex, eventually discovering that love, like therapy, requires patience and perseverance.

The show delves into the juxtaposition of the traditional view of marriage with the realities of modern dating. It seeks to challenge this narrative by showing that love can come into our lives in the most unexpected ways, and navigating it often involves coming out of our comfort zones. The series also paints a vivid picture of a contemporary urban man struggling to confront his anxieties regarding commitment, without turning into a cliché.

Almost There offers a unique blend of comedy and drama while maintaining a steady undercurrent of romance throughout its episodes. The humor isn't over the top but presents itself subtly within life's most ordinary and relatable situations. There are moments of undeniable truth, tucked within layers of humor and sarcasm, which resonate with a wide spectrum of viewers.

The show is earmarked with sharp dialogues that don't lose their conversational touch. At the same time, they underscore the multi-layered facets of the characters and their interpersonal dynamics. The narrative is structured in a way that the viewer gets deeply involved in the protagonists' hopes, dreams, and tribulations.

The performances by the ensemble cast are commendable, giving depth to even the most banal of characters. Steven Pasquale breathes life into the character of Jackson. Pasquale's portrayal demonstrates a thoughtful balance of Jackson's quirks, anxieties, and charisma. Elizabeth Alderfer does justice to the character of Alex, expertly portraying her struggle to choose between her failing marriage and her undeniable chemistry with Jackson.

Almost There is directed by Jace Alexander and is the brainchild of Jace Alexander, Kim Cella, and Debbie Baldwin. The production team ensures a visually enticing show, featuring locations that range from bustling cityscapes to more intimate settings that artistically mirror the introspective moments of the characters. The camera work manages to capture the raw emotions of the actors while keeping the vibe relatable and light-hearted.

Even though Almost There fell under the category of under-rated shows on Audience Network, it managed to carve a niche for itself among viewers. It infused some freshness into the romantic comedy scenario, with elements of amiability, warmth, and a deep understanding of the complexities of love and relationships. The series thus becomes a must-watch for fans of the genre, particularly those seeking a contemporary and more realistic take on love in the era of dating apps and social media pressures.