Paramount+'s new British comedy, "It Gets Worse," centers on a trio of recent college graduates—Ethan (Leo Reich), Abi (Emily Fairn), and Sam (Olive Gray)—navigating the awkward transition into adulthood. The series, created and written by Reich, distinguishes itself within the "adulting sucks" genre by introducing unexpected twists and a pragmatic, yet humorous, outlook on life's challenges.
The premise follows Ethan, Abi, and Sam as they prepare to move out of their shared flat, facing a temporary period of displacement before their new living arrangements are ready. This brief interlude forces them to confront the reality that their carefree college bubble is ending. Abi plans to move in with her boyfriend, Tom (Sean Delaney), while Sam will stay at an artists' hostel with her ex, and Ethan will bunk with Jesse (Arian Nik), a man he is casually involved with. Their final night in the old flat is marked by a planned outing to a gay club that never materializes, leading to Abi's announcement about moving in with Tom, citing a desire to stop "pretending that I'm a child."
Creator Leo Reich subverts expectations early on. In one scene, Ethan discusses what appear to be minor issues with his therapist, Andrew Scott, only for the therapist to kiss Ethan, revealing a different dynamic to their relationship. This deliberate misdirection, as highlighted by Stream It Or Skip It, makes the initial episode, focused on Ethan's perspective, both tolerable and humorous. The hole Ethan can't seem to repair in the wall of their old flat serves as a potent symbol of their reluctance to fully embrace the uncertainties of adulthood and the potential loss of their current comfort.
"It Gets Worse" also draws on narration from Zadie Smith, whose dryly funny commentary contrasts the characters' present-day struggles with the more substantial challenges faced by previous generations of Ethan's family at the same age. This juxtaposition underscores the series' core theme: that life is inherently difficult, even under the best circumstances, and these characters are beginning to realize that.
The performances of the lead actors—Reich, Gray, and Fairn—are noted for their strengths and their palpable chemistry when sharing scenes. The series includes explicit content, such as Ethan's sexual encounter with Jesse, which is depicted before Jesse asks him to leave.
The series concludes its first episode with Ethan returning to the old flat to fix the hole in the wall. He is joined by Abi and then Sam, who brings the necessary tools. Ethan asks if he can stay with either of them for the night, a plea that encapsulates the trio's shared predicament. Stream It Or Skip It ultimately recommends the show, praising its less obnoxious protagonists compared to other similar series and calling it a refreshing entry in the genre. "It Gets Worse" is available on Paramount+.