The third season of Apple TV’s ‘Shrinking’ has arrived, bringing back its endearing cast and a healthier dose of emotional complexity. This dramedy, helmed by the minds behind ‘Scrubs’ and ‘Ted Lasso’, centres on therapist Jimmy, played by Jason Segel, who navigates the choppy waters of grief and honesty in therapy. However, it’s Harrison Ford’s portrayal of mentor Paul that steals the show, with his nuanced performance elevating the series despite its occasional lapses into melodrama.
An Unconventional Therapy Journey
As the new season unfolds, we find ourselves back in the vibrant yet chaotic world of Jimmy and his tightly-knit circle of friends and family. Having made peace with the drunk driver responsible for his wife’s death, Jimmy is poised for a fresh start. Yet, the show quickly shifts gears, thrusting him into odd social dynamics, particularly with Louis, the man who caused his heartbreak. This potentially jarring friendship raises eyebrows, especially as Paul grapples with worsening Parkinson’s symptoms, forcing a reversal in their mentor-mentee relationship.
The emotional landscape is further complicated by Jimmy’s daughter Alice heading off to college, leaving him to confront an empty nest—albeit one that still houses Sean, a former patient. It’s a classic recipe for introspection and growth, but the series often wraps its themes in an overtly sentimental veneer. As Jimmy laments, “Everyone around me seems to be so full of joy lately… I’m still getting knocked on my ass by the smallest things.”
A Melodramatic Ensemble
Throughout its eleven episodes, ‘Shrinking’ oscillates between genuine warmth and heavy-handed emotional manipulation. The ensemble cast, including Jessica Williams as therapist Gaby and Michael Urie as Jimmy’s best friend Brian, injects moments of levity, yet they often overstep personal boundaries, creating a strangely intimate atmosphere that sometimes feels forced.
This lack of boundaries can be a double-edged sword. While it fosters a sense of camaraderie, it also raises questions about the professionalism of the therapy portrayed. With therapists mingling with clients in bars and treating multiple individuals from the same social circles, the series risks trivialising the therapeutic process. The authenticity of therapy takes a backseat to the comedic narrative, as Gaby bluntly states to an exasperated client, “It’s your hour, so you can stay fucked up!”
The Heart of the Matter
Even amidst its flaws, ‘Shrinking’ offers some poignant insights into relationships. The inclusion of Michael J. Fox as Gerry, a fellow Parkinson’s patient, brings a touch of humour and relatability to the struggles of living with a chronic illness. His character’s quips about stunt work due to frequent falls serve as a reminder that even in adversity, laughter can be a powerful tool.
Yet, it’s Harrison Ford who remains the emotional anchor of the show. His portrayal of Paul provides a gravitas that contrasts sharply with the show’s lighter moments. At times, it seems as though Ford is performing in a different, far more serious production, highlighting the disparity between the show’s comedic aspirations and its potential for deeper exploration of grief and healing.
Why it Matters
‘Shrinking’ reflects a broader trend in television, where complex themes of mental health and personal growth are often overshadowed by comedic elements. While the series has yet to fully realise its potential, Ford’s compelling performance and the show’s glimpses of brilliance suggest that there’s more to explore. As audiences continue to seek authenticity in storytelling, the balance between light-heartedness and earnest exploration will be crucial for ‘Shrinking’ to leave a lasting impact in the crowded streaming landscape. With a fourth season already on the horizon, it remains to be seen if the show can evolve beyond its comforting yet predictable narrative.
