Tina Fey’s New Netflix Series Breathes New Life into a Classic 1981 Film—Discover the Exciting Upgrades!

Alan Alda stands out as one of Hollywood’s earliest male feminists. He actively supported the Equal Rights Amendment and contributed to the celebrated album Free to Be … You and Me, alongside Marlo Thomas. This album included a retelling of the Greek myth of Atalanta, where the legendary huntress races a male suitor and triumphantly finishes side by side with him. Alda wasn’t just an actor; he openly discussed women’s issues so often that the Boston Globe called him "the quintessential Honorary Woman." Yet, his 1981 film The Four Seasons, which he wrote, directed, and starred in, now appears dated in its treatment of women.

The film features three long-married couples who gather for a weekend getaway outside New York City. However, the reunion takes a dark turn when Nick, played by Len Cariou, announces he plans to leave his wife, Anne (Sandy Dennis). He complains that Anne doesn’t "do anything," portraying her as stagnant while he pursues a younger woman, revealing a troubling misogynistic undertone in the storytelling.

Nick’s self-absorption is hard to miss. He seems oblivious to the discomfort his actions cause among his friends. Meanwhile, Anne’s portrayal is simplistic—she is almost cartoonishly disconnected and passive, reinforcing negative stereotypes about women. Critics like Janet Maslin pointed out that Nick’s boredom extends to both his marriage and the audience, making Anne feel disposable.

The essence of The Four Seasons contrasts marriage with its ups and downs. Nick’s friends try to remind him that relationships have rough patches. Although Nick’s feelings for Anne might be rocky, Jack, Alda’s character, believes re-establishing those feelings is possible.

This dynamic invites comparison with today’s conversations around marriage and gender roles. Recent surveys show that many couples are increasingly focused on mutual growth and shared interests rather than traditional expectations. A 2021 Pew Research study found that 60% of American adults believe that partnerships should adapt to each person’s evolving identity and needs, contrasting significantly with attitudes during Alda’s era.

The new Netflix miniseries, also titled The Four Seasons, updates this narrative while adding layers. Created by Lang Fisher and Tina Fey, it features a cast including Steve Carell and Kerri Kenney-Silver. Importantly, the new Anne deconstructs the "damsel in distress" trope. She evolves as a character, experiencing growth and even seeking relationships of her own. Critics have noted this shift highlights changing societal views on gender and marriage, showing the importance of character development.

In this retelling, characters wrestle with their own insecurities and choices, creating a deeper narrative. As they navigate their 50s, they embody the struggles and joys of long-term relationships. This approach resonates with contemporary audiences, who balance personal aspirations with lifelong commitments.

In summary, while Alda’s original film set a foundation, the new series offers a modern take that challenges traditional perspectives on marriage and individuality. It reflects how far we’ve come while acknowledging the complexities that remain. Through richer character arcs, today’s storytelling emphasizes growth and connection, creating a more nuanced exploration of love and partnership.

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