After Life series on Netflix deserves more attention

Video by Clara Poudevigne

We already owe Ricky Gervais the cult series The office, in English version. If the humorist marked a whole decade with this flagship program, he is also known for his cynical humor and his sharp pen. Each of his passages at the Golden Globes are memorable and he never fails to present incisive and well-written punchlines. Lately, the actor, screenwriter and producer has tried a new series production: After life. If this British series does not tell you anything, it is nevertheless of a rare delicacy.

Ricky Gervais wrote, directed and produced it, but he is also an actor in this television program. He plays the role of Tony, a man in mourning since the love of his life died of breast cancer. Now living alone with his dog, Tony has suicidal tendencies. For this widower, it is difficult to envisage a life without Lisa and the injustice with which he must face gnaws. But the company of his faithful dog and his entourage will make Tony get his head out of the water. It is a long process that he will live and, above all, face. The strength of After lifeis that Tony's most formidable weapon is his cynicism. In order to better face the real world and this daily life without the woman he loves, Tony will speak without filter.

And that's all that makes the humor of this series! Because, indeed, if the subject which is treated is serious, we laugh a lot before After life. The writing is so subtle that you go from laughter to tears in a totally unexpected way. Tony is an anti-hero. He is one of those characters from scathing series but also very touching. Because, in the end, Ricky Gervais gives us the portrait of a broken man but who, deep down, has a big heart. His generosity and sweetness leaves no one indifferent and the times when he remembers his moments of tenderness with his wife are overwhelming.

After life asserts itself as a veritable whirlwind of emotion where laughter and tears mingle wonderfully. We recognize this very particular and British style which defines the humor and poetry of Ricky Gervais. This is a new perilous balancing act on his part but the bet is successful, once again! After life seems to have found a small place on Netflix and in the hearts of users. However, its softness and its melancholy deserve more attention. The two seasons of this series are currently available on the streaming platform.

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Video by Laetitia Azi