This series explores, thoughts, dreams and concepts many are afraid to ponder for fear of the dark side, the fewer bold and free find this series awakening and worth discussing about, the spiritual numerology behind 1111 , fire , mental health , sexuality among other things have been boldly introduced if not to lead the plot but to get us the few, to interrogate this within ourselves and with others. cancelled or not, the show has done its part, healing is a self ignited process that a healer points out
I also really loved this show. In some ways, it feels like a mix between the wonderful family dramas of Six Feet Under and the supernatural glitz of True Blood. I find the family drama, with all the psychological dimensions, far, far more compelling than the supernatural stuff. I really hope it gets renewed, and then I hope there is a way to play up the family and psychological drama and play down the supernatural stuff, though clearly we need to have answers to the "what's going on here?" question.
Looking forward to season 2.
Loved, loved, loved this show. I was a big fan of Alan Ball's Six Feet Under and True Blood too. I found the characters in Here and Now so endearing even though they were all flawed, like the rest of us. Fabulous acting all round and we never knew where the story was going to take us. Would really like to see another season please, wherever that might be!
If this show does not get renewed it will go down in history like Freaks and Geeks as a tragic loss of art. This is the kind of show that might not be appreciated for some time, until it's too late. Come on HBO. Here and Now is completely engaging, the acting is fantasic and I couldnt stop watching it. Have faith in Alan Ball, he is a true artist, and I would put money that it will find a wider audience in due time.
1
Definitely hoping for follow-up seasons!
As an adoptive parent, the adoption stories caught me first, then the 11:11 misterious thing, and the relation btw Ramon and Farid.
when i told my husband about the show i described as weird, and maybe because of the complexity of all the stories, so many themes for one hour, faith, sexuality, diversity, adoption, couple troubles, aging troubles, sci-fi, psicological problems to name few, but yet i think thats life, real mess, real complex, and thats why i liked it, i kind of felt related, not the completly fairy tail.
And yes i agree still i have many questions, so i really really hope there is a 2nd season, crossing fingers!
2
I really liked this show, and I hope it gets a second season. I liked how messy it was, and while some of the storylines were a bit strained, particularly Ashley's, that doesn't mean I wasn't interested. The cast was very strong, I was always interested where things were going, and yeah, I cried a few times. Lets' have a season 2, please.
2
That’s it?!!!!!! I found the finale anti-climatic and disappointing. To me, the characters were unrealistic and incredibly self-absorbed, the acting at times was forced. Why is everyone so tough and hard on each other? So competitive and lacking in tenderness. And who really talks like that? “I’m a double box.” What is the connection between Ramon and Farid? What does 1111 mean? What do the butterflies have to do with anything? There are too many unresolved story lines from this series that we diligently watched and not enough of a hook to make us watch further. Sad.
People want neat stories with easy answers and endings spoon fed to them. This series doesn't provide them but do inspire thinking, whether philosophical musing as the title suggested, "Here and Now", or magical realism providing cover for vignettes on political correctness as liberals, baby boom generation facing what they wrought. I will suggest some of the answers here for all to chew over. I interpret 1111 as 4 Horses of apocalypse whether it be climate warming or nuclear fallout as humanity face extinction together with baby boom generation facing death. The 4 children of the Boatwright-Bayer are from Vietnam, Columbia, Liberia, and U.S.. We as baby boomer generation which though anti-war because of draft, yet normalize and come to term with it. Columbia for the drug war fought and lost. Liberia for the sin of slavery past and present. and the millennial Kristen dealing with the travails of youth. adding the Iranian family of conflict between religion and secularization. Ramon as the younger generation vaguely perceived the burning man of coming apocalypse. Greg talking of "Myth of Sisyphus" of Camus, on the existential meaning of life. Ashley on gender, race, and income reversal. I do hope there is a second season to explore all those questions in more detail.
2
This is the worst HBO series I've watched. Set in Portland, our home for the last 33 years, sucked us in. So did the whole 11:11/Ramone - Farid thing. Those two elements were just enough to get us to watch the next episode, but just barely. The rest was a disaster. On the Portland thing: It's always amusing to see how our quirky little city is portrayed, with Portlandia and attention here in the Times and elsewhere. After about the 3rd episode, I sat wondering if this was written by someone trying to glorify Portland's oddities and decidedly liberal mindset, and completely missing the mark, or by someone trying to cast aspersions on a city with a seriously screwed-up culture. By then end I tilted toward the former and just think they blew it. On the writing: we could rename this catastrophe 1000 Little Soap Boxes. I guess I like when writers trust the audience, show rather than tell, and use subtleties to make us think for ourselves. The attempts to politicize and preach made for some of the most cringe-worthy TV watching moments I've had in awhile. And it's not that I disagree with a lot of the ideas being espoused, it's just how clumsily they were written. Please HBO, let's just pretend Mt. Hood did erupt, the ensuing pyroclastic blast inundated the Rose City, and leave it at that. There is nothing to pull from these ashes.
1
destined to join John from Cincinnati as the worst series ever produced for HBO.
1
I am late to this series, but love it! Now reading reviews, including comments here, wondering if the problem people are having is one of perspective. The show has lots of entry points, because the family characters actually are all great, compelling, and real. But if we look at this as Greg's story, it hangs together rather beautifully. This is a show for those of us who are on the younger end of the Boomer generation--derided and cast aside as we have been by the scornful absolutism of the following Gen X/Millenial cohort and, ultimately, our children. What have we done? We have actually succeeded at raising beautiful, smart, aware, more or less sensitive children who are succeeding--with problems, sure--at their own adulthood. And the world, America specifically, is a horrible, chaotic, violent, evil, pointless place filled with hatred, mindless consumerism, cynicism, and the evidence of failure of the small "l" liberal ideals that we tried so hard to embody. Our lives are filled with small successes and constantly threatened by the big failures. Does this make sense to any of us? No. Does it seem random and unmoored? Are we desperately anxious? Uh . . . yes. The show is funny, real, wonderfully acted, heart-breaking--and it should be renewed.
9
i think final episode was very good as the show was. lots of questions now, but its kind the point in a serie with this content, i dont need to have all the answers if theres a good history and it keeps me trapped, hope it continues
1
i liked it very much. i would like to see a second season. i've often described it as a This is Us/The Leftovers hybrid. i thought the actors were very good, and i loved the mystery of not knowing what would happen.
1
Though my wife and I enjoyed (mostly) Here and Now, we feel it pales in comparison to The Leftovers, one of the most poignant and complex series we've seen in years.
1
This beautiful science fiction mystery drama features attractive characters. The dynamic is accepted by far lesser programs such as Under the Dome. Maybe if this HBO Original featured nudity and violence, as is typical, there would be more loyalists. Give me this cast and their humanity over Thrones or Westworld anytime.
3
I say yes, please, bring back “Here and Now.” The first couple of episodes were strained, but it fell into a very good rhythm – until the final episode (which was the worst episode). Low ratings you say? So what… Your average American would not watch a show like this anyway. H&N requires thinking, feeling, questioning… Yes, it’s entertaining too, but so much more than that. There’s a spiritual side that many of us long for. I, for one, loved “The Leftovers” and couldn’t get enough of that show. So, in some respects, H&N replaces that void. Thank you HBO for scratching the cerebral/spiritual itch. Given this day and age, the teachings of Professor Tim Robbins’ character are deeply needed – and have an honest truth to them.
Please stop the bickering and let the professor speak!
8
Season 2 please! I think a lot of people are looking to be critical. The characters are not supposed to be perfect- they all have good and bad traits but I think they’ve provided background for the reasons why they are they way they are. I like the actors. I really like the supernatural element. No we don’t have final answers yet but wrapping it all up neatly in one season wouldn’t make sense. We are at least making progress in understanding more. I think it’s creative and interesting and I’d like to see where they go with it.
4
I found the show to be boringly self-indulgent.
3
Greg, Navid & his mother are the only likable characters on this show. I had hopes for it but won't be surprised if it's not back.
1
Why did I keep watching? I suppose I was simply curious about where the narrative was headed. Sometimes it was infuriating. What stereotypical social issue had they failed to include? What self-indulgent behavior was undemonstrated? Despite wonderful acting and sophisticated direction, I felt I could see the scriptwriting through the characters, as if they were utterly transparent. In other words, I didn't believe this family was real for a New York minute. As for the "it," heck, just let it explode, deus ex machine style, and call it "the mystery of life."
3
I loved the convoluted doings of such an eccentric ensemble. I'm fine with Ramone having visions that could be artistic, spiritual, mental illness or clairvoyance- it's most likely a bit of all of these. No it didn't wrap up in a tidy plot package - does anyone's life?
Ball creates a deeply textured emotional landscape and fascinating characters- it will take longer than 10 eps to reveal the deeper patterns at work here. Love it-I want more!
8
I know the plot is convoluted but I kept watching it and I am not sure why. There are so many shows where I watch one or two episodes and that is all. There was something compelling about this show and I think it had something to do with the character of Ramon. I want to know more about him.
5
A curious agglomeration of stereotypes, all incongruously set against each other, in what is supposed to be a nurturing, diverse environment. Separate from their characters, the actors are all superb precisely because they have forced us to sneer and despise their phony, shallow alter-egos. Holly Hunter and Tim Robbins have been reduced to cliché Berkeley boomers, more enraptured with the "how" of Now (empathy, control, passive-aggressive behavior, self-satisfaction), and ignorant of the "what" of Here (racism, sexism, manipulation, violence), numb to their rainbow family's real issues. Likewise, their kids are for the most part, insufferable brats, with Duc leading the pack with his control tantrums, Audrey in a constant aggrieved state, and Kristen feeling excluded by her ironic inclusion as the only biological child. For a supposedly empathetic family living in the Here and Now, they have all abandoned Ramon, the true linchpin of this mess, each trying to cope with his problem with an emotionally limited toolbox. If Ramon was on drugs, or schizo violent, they would have the solution. But he's channeling something bigger, and that's routinely acknowledged when they call him Baby Jesus. And he always made me cry for him — kudos to Daniel Zovatto.
While I've looked forward to each episode, I've had an empty feeling at the end of each one, and frankly don't know where the post-disaster family can go. But I will watch, even if just to see what happens to Ramon.
8
Your anlaysis really helped me to understand the characters and the times better. Wow--especially the comment "'how' of Now (empathy, control, passive-aggressive behavior, self-satisfaction) and ignorant of the "what" of Here (racism, sexism, manipulation, violence)". Really insightful comment I can apply to my own life and times, not just the shows.
3
When artists try to represent the mysterious, as it appears to ordinary people in such individualized varieties - no one sees the same "mystery" - it is easy for critics (whose profession is to think "critically") to not see what is there. Gene Siskel used to argue that you can only judge film by first establishing what the creator was trying to create, and then with that not easily measurable yardstick, we evaluate their efforts.
Here and Now notices that peoples' minds are being recognized as being not quite what society is told by "leading scientists". In this drama we get sketches of many minds in action, each trying to get the slippery reality of other people, and some how lock it down, or find its box. Most critics of Here and Now are on the same vain quest.
Assumptions cloud the knowing, and "mental health" ideas tend not to find a grip on the visions of the "insane", forcing upon those seeking the "normal" the idea that the "visions" are not real. As someone with 18 years in the trenches of mental health systems, you fail the alleged "ill" person by first assuming that their experience - since you don't share it - is not real.
That's a bogus point of view and this drama tries to explore that.
Like a lot of good modern drama, the audience is a participant in the developing meaning of the Art, and critics only see the mirror of their own vanities.
The performances are great, the lines of confusion well drawn, and we can feel the truth leaking out of it all.
10
I hope HBO gives “Here and Now” a second season. I feel like each of the central characters developed in very life like and interesting ways in the course of the season. Was I sometimes annoyed at Audrey’s self righteous and overbearing behavior, yes, but there are people like that, really. And Audrey’s take down of Steve the billionaire during the TV interview was brilliant and redeeming at the same time. Yes there are some hanging threads but that’s life and that’s what I’ve loved about the show. I want to know what happens to Ramon and what’s next for Kristin and Navid and Duc and Carmen and Ashley and what’s his name, and yes Audrey and Greg! SEASON 2 HBO.
13
Just watched the last episode. Perhaps realizing that the 'burning man' is a djinn, as is stated in one or two episodes, is key to unravel the series' plot? There is 'more' to what connects people than meets the eye. Anyway, my wife and I very much enjoyed this show.
8
Although I found the characters annoying most of the time, I watched every episode and was feeling sentimental during the season finale. The good-bye scene between Kristen and Navid teared me up, it was very touching. And I always enjoy endings with a touch of the End of Times (Mt. Hood's eruption brought to mind the comet striking Earth at the end of the movie "Melancholia"). However, being squeamish, I could have done without Farid's flogging scenes. With so many loose ends I hope the show returns.
3
I can't speak to the critical analyses of the concept, the writing or the low ratings of the show. All I know is that it is one of 3 dramas that I look forward to watching every week ("Homeland", "The Americans" are the other two). I find the plot and characters interesting and provocative. I hope there is a 2nd season to answer some of the questions raised that have not been resolved and to raise even more questions. I'm with Lisa.
14
The finale was a disappointment for me because it took the easy way out in giving each character a soft landing, and then blows the whole '11:11' thing up literally with the volcano. Was this entire series a critique of society or just a disaster epic in reverse? I don't think the series really needs a season 2, because there's nowhere to go with it other than what we've already seen. Of course, there are a lot more volcanoes in the northwest that you can explode...
4
So, Ramon’s visions were meaningless. All of this fire, 11 11, ashes stuff was just a too-vague premonition about a volcanic eruption. If Ramon’s family was in danger from the volcano and his premonitions told him “There’s going to be a volcanic eruption at 11:11 am” and he prevented his family from being harmed from the eruption, then his visions meant something. But he didn’t know it was a volcano, his family wasn’t in danger from the volcano and no one was saved from the volcanic eruption. So it was all a lot of angst-y hoo-ha for nothing.
1
It took me awhile to get into "Here & Now' and in the here and now I am hooked. I really enjoyed the dynamics of the interwoven, mixed up family of adoptees and their overzealous parents. Alan Ball always has something interesting to say and to end your review that "it’s among the weakest HBO dramas of all time " is a bit much and one I reject. The complexity of family can be very political no matter who is in the White House and I quite enjoyed the lack of overtly political chatter - these characters were battling it out with each other. Perhaps it is because I am adopted I feel like Ball really captured a profound aspect of what it is like to be the "other" and not in the usual sense of color, sexual preference, political allegiances, etc. Fingers crossed for Season 2 HBO!
10
I really could not continue to read this article after you said that “Persian” was a language, it’s “Farsi”. Also, misspelling the word “season”. Looks like the editing team was asleep on this article.
2
I hope this series gets renewed. Although I didn't "like" the characters as I did in Six Feet Under (and even there, they had their ups and downs of likability), I don't demand that all shows provide all the answers. I do demand that they ask interesting questions, and this show does that. It lives up to its name; it is very much about what life is here and now.
8
Interesting analysis with which I disagree. Anyone who has watched another Ball production knows that they don't always make sense and maybe they don't need to. There are strong interactions and deep conversations between characters, there are conflicts which are interesting, there is romance, there are families who love one another and fight for the welfare of each other. I find it much more entertaining than the slow witted "This is Us" which is a pale comparison in it's Dad love and 50's vibe for women. It is so sticky sweet that next thing t hey will all go to church together.
8
"it’s among the weakest HBO dramas of all time ". i totally agree. i always wonder why outstanding actors, like holly hunter and tim robbins, participate in catastrophes such as this? could it be similar to the reason given by Walter Matthau, who when asked why he appears in so many really awful movies, replied "because my wife and i have expensive tastes".
5
Had the writers dropped the paranormal and were willing to gore all oxes, they could have a simply focused on the idea of constant rebirth of identity: who you grow up as and who you change into at different times in your life and how these changes shape your experience as well as your relationships.
If this show is renewed, I hope Audrey B-B ends up with her jaw wired shut so that she has to LISTEN for once instead of deciding how everyone is supposed to live thier lives. Obliviousness must be the flip side of sanctimonious.
1
This show is pretentious drivel. I could not get past the 4th episode. Not a single charachter rings true. I have lived in Portland for eleven years. I am very engaged in the community and work at the university where Tim Robbins' character supposedly teaches philosophy. There is nothing about this show that feels right or reflects the city I know. I had such high hopes -- Alan Ball and a great cast. What could go wrong? Everything. It's cringe-worthy and a huge disappointment. I expect better from HBO.
5
I am posting this comment in support of here and now with the hope that it does not get canceled. All the characters held my interest because of the great performances of the Actors the the mature dialogue and interesting storyline, reminiscent of The X-Files, which if I remember correctly did not resolve all the questions at the end of its run. In other words, as long as the writers and actors come together and create interesting characters and intriguing episodic story lines, they do not need to resolve all the questions raised during the season or at all in order to capture my attention for an hour and leave me anticipating the next episode or next season.
11
At the beginning of the series, I wondered to myself if this would be something akin to Six Feet Under or to John From Cincinnati. Sorry, but it looks like it took an exit off I-71.
I like Alan Ball and the cast of "Here And Now" is impressive, but in the end it's a pretentious show that doesn't offer any answers. Not just some answers -- ANY answers. That's inexcusable for a 10-week show. The multiple plot lines were confusing and led nowhere. Yes, cancel it HBO.
4
Remember how "Vinyl" held out great promise but didn't deliver? I felt confident the creators could right the ship in a second season---but they didn't get one. I kinda feel that way with Here and Now. It could turn into a show that delivers instead of promises if HBO gives it a second chance.
8
This show reminds me of Lost. A leap of faith that all the new, eery, mystical and unexplainable things will eventually be explained. I enjoyed the ride through the years on Lost and while many had issues with the ending, I was OK with it because I enjoyed the journey. I'm willing to do the same with Here and Now. I'll go along with the ride because I like the characters so much.
3
I love this show and hope to see a second season. It is different, interesting, and Tim Robbins portrayal of Greg makes me laugh. Great set design, especially the Bayer-Boatwright kitchen. I live in Portland and like seeing where you shot on location. My only negative comment would be the ending. Mt.Hood erupting and the 1111 guy, it did not seem to fit.
4
The reason for the low rates is: contemporary viewers don't enjoy reasoning that much. In a world that alienation and violence rule, who are we to think about Sisifo and the meaning of life?
3
While there are many flaws in this show (Audrey's deus ex machina billionaire boyfriend, Ashley's realizing she's black at age 30 to mention two), overall I really enjoyed it. The acting was fabulous and the fact that each of the characters is on a quest kept me riveted. The scripts definitely need to be more cleanly honed but I definitely hope it is renewed.
5
I loved this show! I can't wait to watch the full shot in a smooth arc of beginning to end, thanks to PVR. I looked forward to character development each week (and What! characters), the excellent cast, good photography and wicked storyline. Please: Season 2!!
10
It was a good ensemble cast, and while I liked the characters, but I kept waiting for something to happen. 10 episodes and a finale later, NOTHING was answered. Not one. In fact, the finale closed with more questions than answers. Extremely disappointing.
2
I’m pro Here and Now. Yes, it presents a huge mess of unresolved plot lines, doesn’t keep promises, bites off more than it can chew, and can be heavy handed. But it succeeds in raising so many relevant and interesting topics, and courageously acknowledges the complexity and ambiguity that can be at the bottom of sincere investigation. It intertwines the grandiose and the banal in a refreshingly real way. It is original. It feels motivated by passion rather than commerce. I was entertained despite and at times because of the flaws. Alan Ball doesn’t need us to like or identify with these characters. They show us a range of frustrating and redeeming qualities, as real people do. Much tv feels like escapism. At its best, this show feels like engagement. I’d like to watch it find its wandering way forward, deeper into the mystery. We have enough slick entertainments; this is something else... an earnest, heartfelt quest for truth and meaning that cares more to try than to succeed. Art, anyone?
42
I couldn't agree with you more. This show has so much going for it--why do we need all the answers, immediately? As with the Leftovers, it's a beguiling menu of complex characters and overlapping mystery.
3
I liked the show. I looked forward to it. I was given enough information about the characters to engage with them. I thought the ensemble was strong. Perhaps it’s because I like David Lynch’s work that I had no problem with the script. If it’s not renewed I’ll miss it. For me it was a hopeful vision in our contemporary world.
5
Ah, it's a fun, eye-rolling hate-watch. It doesn't deserve renewal but bring it back anyway . . . (Everybody, let's campaign to resurrect John from Cincinnati.)
5
I loved John from Cincinnati! This show did remind me if that show and also of carnivale. I was sad when they were both not renewed. I’m glad someone else remembered them. I’m probably one of the few who liked them.
I’m in the renew here and now camp.
2
Count us in among the (probably) small group of viewers who really enjoyed John from Cincinnati. I can't tell you how many times I've turned to my wife - or vice-versa - and said, "Get back in the game, Butchy."
I dont like when the plot is so unclear, it seems to me that the authors nave no idea of the story and simply go on with suggestions and emotional triggers. I would like to see what will happen but just of there is an idea behind the show non just casual biographic stories crossing beach others without a guide line. It made me think at LOST, where the authors did not know how to finish the show making a very stupid final. Otherwise, I think that the authors are too good by drawing the charachters of the 2 parents Audrey and Greg. They are deeply unbearable, hypocrits and totally egomaniacs and they don't pay enough for their big mistakes. Can american writers do a deep analysis in the human psichology or social problems in a critical way without falling in the horror or esoteric mistery, so hollywood-style? Nope, evidently. Too superficial for being a family drama, too easy for a social critisism of the american life, and still to simple for a thriller
1
I'm bored with the show. American Beauty was magnificent. Six Feet Under a Masterpiece. True Blood...meh. I quit watching the show. Here and Now is sanctimonious throughout. Love Holly but not in this show. Too much religion and mystic stuff ruins the show as science is the only answer. ( See Silicon Valley where being a christian is not to be spoke in the Valley-ha) Ramon has to be psychotic on some level. I understand the birds and wolf's becoming upset because they feel the trembling a coming. Duc and Ramon felt some predictive rumblings earlier in the season laying out in the woods. But having seen 1111 earlier in the season at a party is not normal. Ball is way over his head and I could care less if the show returns. I'm not waiting a year to see where these over privileged folks will go. Ball has become so disappointing in his last two HBO series.
1
Thank you for using the phrase "bored with" rather than the newer (yuk)on Bored of. Forgive this quirky reply...but am of late obsessed with this latest "trend" in the language.
3
I agree! Ditto re: "excited for" vs. "excited about" trend.
1
I have to disagree with most of the comments and the article written. Here and Now has been number two of my top two favorite shows on HBO. I pay extra for HBO monthly to watch Insecure but when I considered turning it off recently, I changed my mind because I was so excited at the potential of Here and Now. I absolutely LOVE that someone is touching on all of these issues. Issues that real people out here have. I will be so sad if they don't do another season. I have taped and watched each episode. My guess is there are about 95% of shows out here catering to: non-minority families, non adopted families, non trans families, non Muslim families. PLEASE SOMEONE be a voice for these groups. I love the tie in with the spiritual touches, and mental health. School bullying and racism. This shit exists right now and right here! I loved the cast, I'm personally praying for a miracle second season. Praying more people set their DVR's to record and take time to check it out. We need this voice for us. My two cents...
30
I agree. I love this show. I have no idea where it's going and I want to find out. I love the Kristen/Navid storyline; I want to know who Henry really is; Duc's storyline is growing; Audrey and Greg need to be explored more; and Ashley needs to really develop her identity. Why did Hailey smell the smoke and what is going on with Uncle Ike? I need this show to return!
7
My obsession with this show is unreal. I'm in love with every story line! You made some valid points about it being so vague and open-ended, but I sorta enjoy the mystery. Idk, there is more to this show than you summed up in your article and presenting your opinion as fact is total bullshit. Like this is the first article I see on Google? Wth. This show is unlike any other I have ever seen. Every Sunday I get butterflies, I can't wait to see it. I want to know where this goes, I have to know where this goes. How everybody is connected to.. "It". Just because you don't like it, doesn't mean you should use your platform to completely bash it because you didn't get the answers you were looking for! Let it evolve and stop being so bitter! HBO, please renew for another season!!!!
7
Bravo! Completely agree
1
Probably one of the worst shows I've ever watched through to the end. So much wrong with this finale - did Ramon really walk 90 miles in a day? Because that's the distance between Mt. Hood and the city. Were the extensive network of seismic sensors on Mt. Hood out of order for months before the mountain blew up? Because it is highly monitored (as are all the Cascades). What happened to Henry? Why was the whole Iran story even included? Will Ramon ever wash his hair? Who's the guy on fire? Let's hope we don't find out the answers to these "burning" questions because HBO should not give this show another season.
9
Maybe you would enjoy Roseanne,.
3
I'm being snarky, but Ramon walked a few miles less than 90 since he was on his bike for a bit before it was stolen. And perhaps we saw him near the mountain a few days later because he looked pretty weathered.
I love this show. I would be very upset if it does not get renewed. How sad that critics do not see it as the great drama that I do. The scene between Duc and Greg was probably one of the highlights of the season for me. No idea what’s going on with the volcano, but I’d love to find out.
16
This season ending was anti-climactic and a bit disappointing but I still want to see another season to find out where Alan Ball "is going with this."
10
I find the show fascinating, and I find myself questioning my own reaction, because I usually do not like programs that do not answer my questions. I can take vagueness for awhile, but at some point, the threads must come together. Yet I was riveted every week, and it my disappointment did not stop me from enjoyment. The cast is superb (though the youngest daughter seems miscast as too old looking for a teenager). Yes, I found a lot of it very annoying, too on point with stereotypes and repeating themes. But, I do want a season two; I am hopeful that the brilliant mind of Alan Ball is leading us somewhere. I want more about Ramon's adoption, and more Farid - he's the most interesting character to me, and I think the actor portraying him is fabulous. We've become a restless culture; some obscurity may be good.
33
Yes! I agree 100%.
6
Here and Now was the only show this season that I watched live instead of On Demand - it was that good. I re-watched the series the week before the finale. I found the finale riveting and had to take a Xanax to get to sleep last night. Great character development. I'm usually not big on the metaphisical but Alan Ball's creation captivated me.
10
I like the show and waited for the finale Sunday. I was very disappointed. What I expected was the Iranian mother to also be Ramon's mother. I wasn't expecting this ending at all. The show took a wrong turn.
3
"... in the end, “It’s Here” feels as weighed down by obvious symbolism and bereft of compelling plot developments as any other hour of “Here and Now.”"
----------
Exactly. I can't make any pro-season 2 arguments, and frankly I'm glad the season is over, putting me out of my misery of unfulfilled hopes for the series.
The season has been rife with rambling incoherence and inconsistencies, and several plot developments in the last episode were unbelievable. Along with Ms. Berman, I also doubt that Greg's publisher would be telling tales about Duc's sexual exploits in Vancouver -- just as I strongly doubt that Farid would seek solace with the imam (given his experiences during the revolution and his long-standing disdain for religion) and that he would somehow have in his possession the whip that was used on him as a boy. He was eight years old when his uncle pulled him out of Iran -- and the whip had been wielded by his mother. How did this child obtain it and carry it to the US without his uncle's knowledge?
I also feel vindicated by Navid's rejection of a romantic relationship with Kristen, since they seemed from the start more like platonic allies than lovers.
That said, Greg has redeemed himself somewhat in the last couple of episodes -- not because he's a better man necessarily but because he's become more honest about his flaws and is standing up for himself. But if the show is renewed, I won't be watching.
6
'Here and Now', more like 'Done and Gone'.
This mashup of Twin Peaks and ThirtySomething really doesn't deserve another chance.
Oh, and Ursula K. Le Guin had Mount Hood erupt in _The Lathe of Heaven_, back in 1971.
6
I originally tuned into H & N because of the fine cast of actors that were going to be involved. While I've enjoyed most of these actors in a number of their other roles, I can't say the same for their roles in this series. Throughout the season, I found most of the H & N characters to be cliched and unsympathetic and the story lines to be confusing and not particularly intriguing. IMHO, this series was far from one of HBO's better efforts.
6
Great TV series don't need to "wrap up" every plot point with a neat bow, as "Twin Peaks" has more than amply proved. The most troubling issue with "Here and Now" is inherent in the self-importance of its title: rather than being content with digging into its characters' arcs, it aims to use them as symbols for the times we are living in, which in itself requires a vision and execution on a much grander scale than Mr. Ball seems to possess. Everyone loves to mention "Six Feet Under" but interestingly, and conveniently, forget about "True Blood". I, for one, would have titled the show "Millennials from Hell and their Enabling Parents".
9
TV has changed so much in the last 5-10 years that competition for originality and viewership is fierce. It's not the best show, it's not the worst show; it sits somewhere in the middle which is not a bad place to be for a first season. The plot and characters kept me watching and I personally hope it gets green-lit to see where the story goes.
6
While I was very critical of the show from the beginning, I found the later episodes intriguing. I'd love to see where Ball is going with this show, and I would definitely watch a second season. What happens in times of natural disaster? Do people come together? Or do certain groups/individuals rise to the top in a world of suvival of the fittest?
12
Well, that was a hot mess. If the show is renewed I would probably watch it, but not on Sunday at 9pm if there's anything good on Masterpiece Theater. I'd catch it during weekly reruns on one of the HBO channels. If I missed an episode, I would read the NYT recap.
But I wouldn't go out of my way to watch the show.
3
It seems to me that after all was written and filmed, "Here and Now" was simply about a period of time in the life of the two families. Farid and Ramon were clearly shown to be mentally ill. Kristen's experiences, especially with Navid, contributed to her emotional growth. Greg got over his depression. He and Audrey's marriage got stronger for all the sturm and drang. Ashley and Malcolm finally started really talking to each other. Duc found some relief from his trauma, and the love of a good woman. All of it was interesting to me, notwithstanding the many loose ends, which is why I watched every week. Although Episode One seemed to suggest there would be more supernatural or metaphysical elements to the story, I enjoyed the it overall and would definitely watch a second season. On the other hand, if there isn't one, I'll live.
11
Clearly it's not mental illness if Ike, Ramon, Farid, and little Hailey are experiencing the same thing, in various degrees. The commonality of their experience makes it intriguing to me and I'm looking forward to see how this develops in season 2.
6
The cast is what had me tuning in week after week. I somewhat enjoyed the show but, I agree with Judy. I will shed no tears if it is not renewed.
2
Sadly I share your sense of indifference towards renewal. Six Feet Under was a masterpiece on so many levels, as a family drama, a social commentary, a mediation on life and death and I suspect that many of us set the bar too high. The characters come off as either too privileged or too broad to be compelling and there seems to be a trite predictability to the arcs that they are developing.
I would certainly watch a second season to see if it can move beyond a slight malaise that surrounds the overall show. It’s not a world weariness but a boredom that seems to hover over these characters. Alan Ball needs to sharpen his pencil and make the characters more flesh and blood as opposed to the (rather lame) archetypes that we’ve seen so far.
5
I couldn't disagree more with Ms. Berman. Just because Season 1 didn't wrap up the plot lines in a perfect bow, does that make it a failure in "serialized televsion." I answer with a resounding NO! Did you ever wonder, that it is just that, serialized television, which is the failure; by submitting to people's expectation and need to have a series season ending tied up in that "perfect bow." Albeit, maybe it's serialized television that creates that expectation/need rather than the human condition. A chicken or egg question I cannot answer. This show, similar to other complex shows, wouldn't be true to itself or its art form, if it presented a linear resolution. It is the unanswered that makes this Show so interesting. If you didn't see the slow march of personal struggles and ultimate confluence, reaching a breaking point, or more aptly, an epiphany, than I don't think anything I can write here will help you in the journey that is Here and Now. I personally think it is pretty genius TV, with excellent writing, character development and phenomenal acting, which has a lot MORE to offer, and I await with baited breath. If the viewing audience doesn't have the patience, then so be it, but isn't that the real problem.
11
It's "bated" breath, not "baited."
And I don't believe that Berman is criticizing the lack of a tidy conclusion. She is critiquing the lack of coherent plot development and direction, the cliches and heavy-handed symbolism, and that the show runners themselves don't seem to know what they want this show to be.
3
Is the show going in a 'Close Encounters' direction now? If so, big mistake!
I thought this shows was very deliberate and always left me wanting more. Shouldn't a good show give you that feeling of "what's next", this one surely does. All the actors are great, and this show can go a million different ways right now, That's why I NEED a second season.
14
I thought the finale was boring and resolved a lot of nothing. Very disappointed at a lot of levels.
Stuggling to find one interesting thing about it. Maybe the guy who took Ramon bike - maybe... Maybe the tie in between Asian prostitution and Duc - maybe...
Oh well - I had high hopes for this too.
4
I would cry if it does not get renewed. I loved this show and I really hope we get to have more seasons to come. The show is honest and brutal about the realities of minorities, religion, and also mental illness. The theme of fear and faith and disappointment is beautifully interwoven into the story. HBO, I really hope you do not cancel the show based on a few bad reviews.
13
I enjoyed this series and hope it gets renewed. Failing to tie all loose ends into a bow is not pivotal to me. Reminds me of Lost.
12
I hope there is a second season. I'm interested where the characters will go from this point.
23
Even though this series is sometimes confusing and weights heavy on many issues I still enjoy it and look forward to watching it.
The cast is so strong that I think there is still a chance to redeem itself if it is renewed and the writers are given another season to unload some of it's baggage.
20
I was a little disappointed by not getting any cohesive answers. I guess, to the point that I would not be that upset if this show, that I really enjoyed, was canceled. I'm afraid a second season might be more of the same metaphoric supernatural storytelling that would devolve into "Lost" style retro-plotting or impressionistic arty digressions to prove Alan Ball is a real auteur.
Though that doesn't mean was wasn't intrigued by the finale. Was something released in the volcanic eruption that needed a witness? Was Henry really the djinn that has been wandering Ramon's game? Will there be a more distinct supernatural plotline if the series gets a second season? I'd totally be there if there was one.
However, if the series ended last night, I would miss Raymond Lee's beauty on my TV next year. I love that on a series with attractive men, he was the really HOT guy. We have been conditioned that female Asians are the pinnacle of exotic beauty. And male Asians are regulated to bottom of the hot ladder, for some reason. But with actors like Daniel Day Kim, Vincent Rodgriguez and Randall Park things are changing.
So thank you, Here and Now, for the shot of Duc in his tiny black underwear. That will go in the spank bank for a couple months!
8
I see your point, but wasn’t Henry the hot guy? (Alan Ball reserves full frontal for special occasions.)
And if you separate morality from physical beauty the statutory rapist who left New Girl and is now wooing Jenna Fisher on Splitting Up Together is physical perfection.
1
I thought Henry was Ramon's homeless barista boyfriend. How much time has passed on this show? Henry had really short hair in episode 4 or so, and if its the same Henry, he now has a mane that would take quite a while to grow out.
They aren't the same person. The guy who stole Ramon's bike in the finale is the homeless guy that Navid and Kristen filmed with the "other" Henry going into the tent. When the thief said he was Henry Bergen, it is implied that the barista guy wasn't who he said he was and was using the homeless guy's identity.
1
I’m feeling nostalgic for “John From Cincinnati “
7
Yes. I was thinking the same thing! I liked that show much better though.
3
HBO - please cancel this dreadful, insufferable series. What a waste of time, money, and talent. Here and Now makes Big Little Lies look like Masterpiece Theatre. Judy Berman thank you for an honest review.
5
I was fascinated by this season finale. I hope it's renewed for next season.
12