Watch Easy

Easy is a Netflix original anthology series created by Joe Swanberg that explores relationship dynamics and modern love in the city of Chicago. The series is comprised of eight half-hour episodes per season, with a total of three seasons spanning from 2016 to 2019. Each episode is a standalone story, but a few characters and plot lines reappear throughout the series. The show boasts a star-studded cast featuring Orlando Bloom, Malin Akerman, Jake Johnson, Marc Maron, Dave Franco, and Hannibal Buress, among others. The different episodes touch on various aspects of modern relationships, from marriage to infidelity to casual hookups. The first season of Easy sets the tone for the rest of the series with its witty and insightful look at modern relationships. The first episode, titled “The F**King Study,” follows a married couple played by Orlando Bloom and Malin Akerman who decide to spice up their love life by hiring a sex worker. The episode explores the couple's fears and insecurities, and ultimately challenges societal norms around sex work and monogamy. The second episode, “Vegan Cinderella,” follows a young woman who goes on a date with a man who turns out to be a famous DJ. Jake Johnson stars as the DJ, a charming and aloof character who represents everything the protagonist, played by Zazie Beetz, hates about modern dating culture. Their dynamic is both entertaining and thought-provoking, as they navigate the disconnect between social media personalities and real-life interactions. As the series progresses, Easy tackles more complex relationships and themes. In season 2, episode 4, “Spent Grain,” Dave Franco plays a struggling brewer who reconnects with his ex-girlfriend, played by comedian Aya Cash. The episode explores the complexities of getting back with an ex, and the ways in which nostalgia can blur one's understanding of the past. In season 3, “Package Thief” delivers a hilarious yet poignant look at discussing open relationships. Marc Maron stars as a middle-aged man who takes on a much younger girlfriend, only to discover that she is not interested in monogamy. Maron’s character struggles with his own insecurities and societal expectations around relationships, but ultimately learns to communicate openly with his partner about their needs and desires. Easy's strength lies in its ability to capture the complexities of modern relationships and portray relatable characters with depth and nuance. The series also explores relevant social issues, such as gender dynamics, race, and class, through the lens of personal relationships. The result is a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, highlighting the messiness and beauty of love in the contemporary world. Aside from the impressive cast, Easy is also notable for its diverse range of directors and writers, many of whom were women and people of color. The series was also praised for its authentic depiction of the city of Chicago, which serves as a backdrop for many of the stories. Overall, Easy is a refreshing and entertaining series that offers a unique perspective on modern relationships. Its insightful commentary on social issues, coupled with its star-studded cast and talented crew, makes the series a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of love in the 21st century.