Josh Hutcherson's New HBO Show Divides Critics and Audiences
The HBO comedy series I Love LA, which premiered on November 2, has sparked a notable divide between critics and audiences on Rotten Tomatoes after its first episode.
Show Overview
Created by Rachel Sennott, the series follows a close-knit group of friends who reunite after years apart, exploring how time has changed their relationships.
Critical Reception
Critics have responded positively, praising the show’s absurdist humor and appeal to Gen Z sensibilities. It is currently Certified Fresh with an 81% approval rating based on 32 reviews.
Sam Adams of Slate notes the "writing gets sharper" as the series progresses and appreciates the strong characterization of the main characters.
Chris Vognar from the Boston Globe highlights how the show effectively makes its unlikable protagonists relatable and sympathetic.
Audience Reaction
In contrast, audiences have given the show a more mixed response, with a 59% score from fewer than 50 ratings. Some viewers criticize the series for leaning on clichés about LA and for unsuccessful emotional moments.
Nevertheless, there are several five-star audience reviews that celebrate the comedy and its resonance with modern young adults.
Summary
The gap between critical acclaim and audience reactions reflects differing expectations for humor and emotional impact in I Love LA.
Author's summary: Josh Hutcherson's I Love LA sparks sharp division between critics praising its humor and audiences critiquing its emotional depth and clichés.