Review : “Apples Never Fall”
Liane Moriarty, renowned for her compelling storytelling in works like “Big Little Lies” and “Nine Perfect Strangers,” presents her latest series, “Apples Never Fall.” However, despite the anticipation surrounding Moriarty’s name, this new venture falls short of expectations.
Annette Bening, taking on the role of Joy Delaney, and Sam Neill, portraying her husband Stan Delaney, lead the cast as retired tennis coaches. Their characters, along with their adult children Amy (Alison Brie), Troy (Jake Lacy), Logan (Conor Merrigan Turner), and Brooke (Essie Randles), become embroiled in the mystery of Joy’s disappearance. Through a series of then-and-now flashbacks, viewers are taken through various scenarios, shedding light on family dynamics and the role of houseguest Savannah, a key suspect.
APPLES NEVER FALL — “Brooke” Episode 104 — Pictured: (l-r) Sam Neill as Stan, Annette Bening as Joy — (Photo by: Jasin Boland/PEACOCK)
Filmed on the Gold Coast, production faced setbacks due to strikes, resulting in a six-part series that struggles to find its momentum. Each episode feels sluggish, weighed down by excessive family drama and predictable plot points. Despite the stellar cast, including the likes of Bening and Neill, the series fails to capitalize on their talents.
Ultimately, “Apples Never Fall” disappoints with its lackluster execution, leaving viewers frustrated with its meandering narrative and foreseeable conclusion. While available for streaming on platforms BINGE and Foxtel, it’s difficult to recommend investing time in this underwhelming offering from Moriarty.
APPLES NEVER FALL — “The Delaneys” Episode 101 — Pictured: (l-r) Essie Randles as Brooke, Jake Lacy as Troy, Alison Brie as Amy, Conor Merrigan-Turner as Logan — (Photo by: Vince Valitutti/PEACOCK)
