5 Reasons ‘Atypical’ Should Be Your New Obsession

One of the show’s biggest successes is balancing comedic scenes with dramatic ones. Due to the array of serious topics the show handles (autism, abandonment, normality, etc.), there are many heavy scenes that take place. One being when our protagonist Sam has an intense emotional attack after getting his heart broken. This scene was heartbreaking and made for a key moment in the show’s overall story line. However, there are other scenes throughout the series that remind us to laugh and enjoy the characters. Scenes between Sam and his friend Zahid (Nik Dodani) are often lighthearted and comical because of Zahid’s hipster, happy go lucky attitude. The integration of these scenes help generate a realness and genuine tone for the show.

The main story line for the show revolves around Sam and his search for love. Throughout his search, he struggles with defining what is “normal” in the world and what is not. He clearly states that he is considered a “weirdo” among many. However, several characters remind him that no one in the world is normal and that everyone is a little weird sometimes. This is something that many people could relate to. We have all felt different at some point in our lives. This show reminds us that we are all different and what seems to be normal may not be what’s best for you.

As mentioned before, Atypical deals with serious issues that many people have experienced in their lives. Aside from the most obvious one, Sam’s autism, the show does not allow the other members of Sam’s family to take a back seat. Sam’s sister Casey (Brigette Lundy-Paine) makes two major discoveries throughout the first season. She struggles to trust her father (Michael Rapaport) after finding out that he once abandoned the family for eight months after Sam’s diagnosis. Her relationship with her mother is also tested after she learns of her affair with a local bartender. Things definitely get tough for this family as secrets come out and challenges arise with every new episode.

The cast of this new series is definitely one to praise. Keir Gilchrist forces us to love Sam in so many ways. Despite his autism, Sam proves to be a delightful, smart character that you will slowly become obsessed with. Brigette Lundy Paine also encompasses the character of Casey in a truly amazing light. The relationship between these siblings contributes to the magic of the show immensely. Although she often gets frustrated with her big brother, it is clear that Casey would do anything for him and loves him more than anyone. You’ll find yourself rooting for these two throughout the entire series!

This show is everything you want in an interesting new dramedy. And honestly, it’s not a huge time commitment. You’ll want to binge all eight episodes in one night! I mean, what better way to spend four hours of your life? Trust me, it’s worth it. The characters, storylines, and life lessons presented throughout this series will force you to start asking: When is season 2 of ‘Atypical’ coming out?!