Platonic
Platonic is an Apple TV+ comedy series that reunites former best friends Sylvia (Rose Byrne) and Will (Seth Rogen) in their 40s after a significant falling out. Both characters are navigating midlife challenges, with Will recently divorced and Sylvia a married stay-at-home mother of three. The show explores the complexities of their intense, rekindled friendship, which, despite remaining strictly platonic, frequently destabilizes their individual lives and current relationships. The series is characterized by its blend of humor and genuine exploration of mature themes, focusing on self-actualization and the impact of long-standing friendships. The series aims to subvert the typical 'will-they-won't-they' romantic comedy trope, emphasizing the enduring nature of deep platonic bonds. It features mature themes and situations common in adult comedies, including extensive strong language, explicit discussions of sexual topics, and recreational drug use. The content is generally appropriate for mature audiences accustomed to adult-oriented humor and themes.
Concerns
Romance and Sexual Content
HighThe show contains significant and explicit romantic and sexual content, including detailed discussions of sexual acts, implied sexual activity, nudity, and references to sexual themes. This content is frequent and central to the adult themes of the series.
Sylvia and Will frequently discuss their sex lives, with Sylvia expressing dissatisfaction with the length of sex with her husband, Charlie. Will recounts a story of a woman punching him in the kidney to achieve orgasm, an act Sylvia later imitates with Charlie during sex to end it quicker. The show also features a scene with covered sex between Sylvia and Charlie, accompanied by noises, and includes male rear nudity.
Profanity
HighThe series features frequent and strong profanity, including high counts of explicit curse words and instances of taking God's and Jesus' names in vain. Strong language is a pervasive element of the dialogue.
The f-word is used nearly 35 times in one episode, including the abbreviated 'mofo', and the s-word is used seven times. Additionally, God's name is taken in vain 13 times, and Jesus' name is misused once in the same episode.
Substance Use
HighSubstance use is explicitly and frequently depicted, including alcohol consumption leading to intoxication, marijuana use, and the consumption of illegal drugs. The show portrays characters engaging in drug use with mild consequences, sometimes for comedic effect.
Will and Sylvia consume marijuana-infused gummies and get high together. In a significant scene, Will convinces Sylvia to do cocaine with his friends, which turns out to be laced with ketamine, causing Sylvia to experience panic before the drugs take full effect.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
MediumThe series includes representation of LGBTQ characters, specifically depicting a gay couple. While not a central theme of the main storyline, their presence is noted within the show's ensemble. This inclusion introduces diverse relationship dynamics.
The review for 'Platonic' by Plugged In explicitly states, 'We also see a gay couple.' These characters are part of the broader social fabric presented in the show, contributing to its diverse character set.
Violence
MediumViolence in 'Platonic' is generally mild and often presented within a comedic or implied context, though some instances could be considered intense or disturbing through description. There is no graphic violence or gore depicted.
Will alleges that a man cannibalized another man in Korea, a disturbing but unconfirmed narrative detail. In another instance, Will gets a piece of glass in his hand during an escalating argument at a bar and requires medical attention at the ER.
Scary & Intense Content
MediumThe series contains some intense or anxiety-inducing situations, though it is not a horror or thriller. These elements often arise from reckless behavior or comedic mishaps rather than deliberate fright.
After consuming ketamine-laced cocaine, Sylvia experiences a panic attack and becomes nearly comatose in a convenience store. An incident involving a raccoon causes panic and results in a partial garage collapse, creating a chaotic and intense situation.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumCharacters frequently display disrespectful behavior towards others, societal norms, and personal responsibilities. This includes lying, defiance, and expressing hopes for others' misfortunes, often driving comedic or dramatic plot points.
Will damages a passing delivery robot for no apparent reason, showcasing arbitrary disrespect for property. Sylvia avoids telling her husband, Charlie, that she was fired from her job, illustrating an act of defiance and lack of transparency within her marriage.
Anti-Christian Themes
MediumThe series includes instances of irreverent remarks regarding religious traditions and frequent misuse of divine names, which may be perceived as anti-Christian or blasphemous by Christian parents.
Will and Sylvia irreverently claim to honor an 'old Jewish tradition' by pouring out drinks, stating, 'lest our Jew god be vengeful,' which can be seen as mocking religious beliefs. God's name is taken in vain 13 times, including 'g-dd–n,' and Jesus' name is misused once, demonstrating pervasive irreverence.
Witchcraft & Occult
LowThere is no significant depiction or discussion of witchcraft, sorcery, occult practices, magic rituals, demons, spells, or supernatural themes within the series.
No specific examples of witchcraft or occult content were found in reviews or summaries of the show's plot or themes. The narrative focuses on realistic adult relationship dynamics and life challenges.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
18+ due to frequent strong profanity, explicit sexual discussions, detailed depictions of substance use, and some instances of irreverent and disrespectful behavior.
Additional Notes
The show's humor often stems from the characters' poor decision-making and their attempts to relive aspects of their younger, wilder days while dealing with adult responsibilities. Parents should be aware that while the show does not promote romantic infidelity between the platonic leads, the concept of a deep, consuming non-familial friendship impacting marital relationships is a significant theme. The portrayal of drug use, while sometimes leading to mild hangovers or remorse, does not consistently show severe negative consequences, which could be a concern.
Related Reviews
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