Netflix has recently released its response to Succession, a new drama series titled A Man in Full. This show stars Jeff Daniels and is created by the same person behind Big Little Lies.
Despite concluding last year, Succession has solidified itself as one of the top binge-worthy TV shows that can be fully enjoyed. However, its absence has created a void in pop culture that has been difficult to fill.
Nevertheless, Netflix appears to have found a viable alternative in A Man in Full, the latest television series from acclaimed producer David E. Kelley, known for his successful projects including Big Little Lies, Boston Legal, Ally McBeal, and The Lincoln Lawyer.
Despite receiving mixed reviews thus far, the series will be available on the streaming platform just in time for the weekend. Here’s everything you need to know before starting to watch.
What is A Man in Full about?
The novel, A Man in Full, depicts the story of Charlie Croker, a successful real estate mogul in Atlanta who finds himself on the brink of bankruptcy. Despite the imminent threat of losing everything, he refuses to give up and instead struggles to maintain his control over his empire and regain his position at the peak of success.
The story is adapted from Tom Wolfe’s popular 1998 novel and, although it may not focus on familial conflicts like Succession, the similarities are evident: it centers on a wealthy man and the individuals vying for his position as the leader of Atlanta’s power structure, each using their cunning tactics to outdo the others.
Croker is portrayed as the “ultimate real estate hero”in the city in the trailer, and despite facing financial struggles, he is determined to resist defeat. He issues a warning to those who dare to challenge him, stating that they must give it their all if they want to succeed, because he is indomitable. He makes it clear that he will not back down, no matter who thinks they can bring him down.
The audience can anticipate scenes filled with sex, cunning plot twists, and clever dialogue. In a particular moment, a character informs Croker, “Given your diagnosis, it would be inappropriate to engage in a fight…we obtained your medical records and discovered that you are weak.”
Cast of A Man in Full
Playing the role of Charlie Croker in A Man in Full is Jeff Daniels, who leads the cast. Other notable actors in the production include:
- Diane Lane as Martha Crocker, Charlie’s ex-wife whose “rebuild poses a threat both personally and financially — three decades of marriage comes with baggage.”
- Lucy Liu portrays Joyce Newman, the creator of a clean beauty company who faces a moral dilemma that could potentially disrupt her other business endeavors.
- Tom Pelphrey as Raymond Peepgrass, a “lowly loan officer on the verge of personal and professional chaos” with a dangerous, vengeful streak.
- Sarah Jones plays the role of Serena Crocker, the second wife of Charlie, who serves as a calming and rational presence as his life begins to crumble.
- William Jackson Harper as Wes Jordan, Atlanta’s mayor who’s preparing for re-election.
- Aml Ameen portrays Roger White, a lawyer working for Croker Industries who becomes involved in Charlie’s complicated situation.
- Jon Michael Hill portrays Conrad Hensley, who works for Croker Industries.
- Chanté Adams as Jill Hensley, Conrad’s wife and Charlie’s executive assistant.
Despite his continued recognition for his role in Dumb and Dumber with Jim Carrey, Daniels’ impressive acting range is evident through his portrayal of Will McAvoy in Aaron Sorkin’s The Newsroom, as well as his appearances in Looper, Steve Jobs, The Martian, and Godless.
During an interview with Screen Rant, the actor described his approach to portraying a malicious character like Charlie. He emphasized the importance of finding redeeming qualities in a villain and identifying flaws in a hero, as it is a fundamental aspect of acting.
Similarly, Charlie also takes time to fully understand it. In the first couple of episodes, it is not apparent to him at all. He is completely blind to his own foolishness and remains ignorant of others and his surroundings, only focusing on himself. However, with David’s guidance, he eventually grasps the concept and it greatly enhanced the book.
The character’s influence ultimately led Charlie to embrace his humanity, particularly in his relationships with his son and young wife. This added complexity and challenge to the story, rather than simply portraying clear-cut heroes and villains.
A Man in Full Rotten Tomatoes Score
Despite its lower audience rating of 43%, A Man in Full currently holds a 52% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Daily Telegraph wrote in a two-star review that “while there are similarities to Succession such as family conflicts and discussions about wealth, A Man in Full falls short of the same caliber. Despite waiting for the drama to intensify, it never quite reaches the same level.”
Similarly, USA Today wrote a negative review, stating that “Man in Full”lacks the same scope and satire that made HBO’s hit show, Succession, successful. It seems that Netflix was trying to capitalize on the fascination with the wealthy and famous, but ultimately falls short.
Despite this, there have been favorable reviews that all praise Daniel’s performance. According to the Arizona Republic’s review of “A Man in Full”on Netflix, the adaptation is fun and well-crafted, with Daniel’s acting alone making it worth watching. While it may not reach the same level as the novel, it still manages to hit its target.
According to Decider, the main reason to watch A Man In Full is to witness Daniels’ captivating performance as Charlie Croker in all six episodes.
Is A Man in Full Inspired by a True Story?
No, A Man in Full is not a true story. The character of Charlie Croker is a creation of author Tom Wolfe.
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