A workaholic TV news producer finds out he is dying and dedicates his remaining days to making a movie about the meaning of life for his estranged wife and their soon-to-be-born son in Dave Ash’s TV series Incompleteness.
Dave Ash’s thought-provoking series, Incompleteness, immerses viewers in a captivating exploration of metaphysics, relationships, and the very nature of reality. Over 8 episodes, this 6-hour televisual epic blends unconventional storytelling techniques with poignant human drama. A couple of years ago we reviewed the 110-minute version of Incompleteness which was an edited version of the first 3 episodes. We gave it a good review noting that a more expansive universe would help with the overall feel of the film. Thankfully our initial thoughts have been proven correct with writer and director Ash creating an impressive series that is at once very familiar, while also being totally original.
Lynchian in mood, time, and place, at the heart of INCOMPLETENESS lies a complex web of interconnected stories, each revolving around a couple grappling with the intricacies of love, loss, and the profound existential questions that shape their lives. Alex, an aspiring filmmaker battling a terminal illness, embarks on a journey of self-discovery through his art, seeking to mend his relationship with his estranged wife Jodi, and leave a meaningful legacy for their unborn child. Paul, Alex’s eccentric and philosophically driven screenwriter, is deeply captivated by metaphysical concepts and control, while relationships with enigmatic characters add another layer of mystery to the narrative. Michael and Chelsea, the lead actors in Alex’s film, blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy with their dynamic mirroring the series’ exploration of free will and the manipulative power of storytelling.
Ash’s masterful direction shines through in his bold choices and unconventional risks, resulting in a series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The non-linear narrative and fragmented editing style mirror the complex and interconnected nature of the characters’ lives, while Brennan Vance’s cinematography captures the beauty and mundanity of everyday moments, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
As the series narrative unfolds, the boundaries between reality and fiction become increasingly blurred leaving viewers questioning the authenticity of the characters’ experiences. Ash masterfully manipulates the audience’s perception, challenging them to consider the nature of truth and the subjective nature of reality. Incompleteness is not merely a series, it is an intellectual labyrinth that invites viewers to question their own perceptions of existence and the power of storytelling to shape their understanding of the world.
Each episode delves deeper into the characters’ lives, revealing their vulnerabilities, aspirations, and the profound impact their relationships have on their individual journeys. Alex’s quest for redemption through his film becomes a mirror reflecting his own life, forcing him to confront his past mistakes and seek reconciliation with those he has wronged. Yet amidst the underlying tension and existential dilemmas, moments of levity are injected through humour, providing a counterpoint to the heaviness of the subject matter. Philosophical ramblings, dismissive remarks, and awkward encounters on the path toward true love all serve as comedic interludes, adding a touch of light-heartedness to the narrative.
There is also a great sense of self-reflection with monologues about butterfly effects and the infinite possibility of life, resonating with the series’ overarching theme of incompleteness. With a montage of relationships that parallels the lives of other characters and their dynamics, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these people and how telling stories has the power to influence perceptions.
Beneath the surface of laughter and intellectual discourse, a lingering sadness permeates the series with Alex’s impending death casting a shadow over his interactions, and Jodi grappling with her changing circumstances and the prospect of raising a child alone. The characters’ struggle with loss, betrayal, and the fragility of life, resonating deeply with the audience, evoking a sense of empathy and shared humanity.
The acting of all the principal cast is strong across the board and it would be unfair to single any of them out. Each performance brings a well-defined nuance to their character with complete commitment and strong preparation, all visibly on show. As they scream, shout, cry, laugh, and emote, there isn’t a weak link among any of them. The series’ exploration of storytelling as a tool for manipulation and interpretation reaches its crescendo when the lines between reality and imagined scenarios become blurred beyond recognition. Alex’s storyline, in particular, is cast into doubt, further emphasizing the series’ central theme of the subjective nature of existence and the power of storytelling to shape perceptions.
Incompleteness is a TV show that is a thought-provoking and mind-bending exploration of reality, relationships, and the power of storytelling. Through unconventional techniques and human drama, Ash’s vision, the dedication of his cast & crew, and the way he weaves his threads challenges viewers to question their perceptions of truth, reality, and how powerful storytelling is. A series that deserves a shot at the major networks whose bigger budgets could help turn Incompleteness into another White Lotus. Seeing is believing and believe me you should see it.
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