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Netflix’s new crime comedy show just claimed No. 1 — and it’s a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes

Vaseline November 23, 2024

Netflix’s new crime comedy show ‘A Man on the Inside’ has arrived and it looks set to be the streamer’s next big hit as it just claimed the No. 1 spot. The creator of ‘The Good Place’ has teamed up again with Ted Danson for a delightful new comedy. Fellow streaming writer Martin Shore shared his thoughts on the trailer a few weeks ago, saying it “seems like another piece of feel-good TV, one with plenty of laughs in store.”

As someone who also enjoys a good whodunnit, laced with sharp humor in a strange concept, this might seem like the perfect binge this weekend. With an impressive Rotten Tomatoes rating, it has already risen the ranks as one of Netflix’s must-watch shows of the year.

Early reviews are raving about the incredibly moving yet entertaining plot and the standout performance of the lead actor, Ted Danson, who goes undercover in a retirement home to solve a crime.

So if you’re looking for something new to watch on the streaming service, here’s everything you need to know about “A Man on the Inside” and why critics love it.

What is ‘A Man Inside’ about?

A man within | Official trailer | Netflix YouTube

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Charles (Ted Danson), a widower looking to escape his mundane routine, responds to a private detective’s call for help on a special theft case. Disguised as a newcomer, he infiltrates a senior community, where his undercover mission leads to unexpected connections, new friendships and a closer relationship with his daughter.

Director Mike Schur told Netflix: “This is a multi-generational show, and it’s just as important to explore the inner lives of people my age – because it’s weird when your parents need your help. You’re not used to that. The whole basis for the relationship was that you need their help. I thought it would be a good idea to adjust this, because we just don’t talk about this. It feels painful, and it is especially difficult to talk about it directly with your parents.”

‘A Man on the Inside’ Reviews – Critics are loving this new comedy

At the time of writing, “A Man on the Inside” has an impressive 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes from approximately 16 reviews. Most of the praise comes down to the charm of the show, and of course Danson’s incredible performance as the mole in the retirement home.

Variety’s Aramide Tinubu said: “A charming and hilarious whodunit that explores grief, love and the excitement of new beginnings from the perspective of seniors.” Meanwhile, Rolling Stone’s Alan Sepinwall says it’s “smart and kind and incredibly warm, a necessary balm at a time when the world feels very angry and cold.”

Melanie McFarland from Salon also found it very heartwarming: “Instead of reaching for the easy joke, or whatever, A Man on the Inside makes tenderness and honesty the North Star. It’s not the funniest comedy on TV, but it may be the most watchable and poignant.”

Ted Danson as Charles and Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Emily

(Image credit: Netflix)

However, there was one point of criticism among the reviews. Kelly Lawler of USA Today said, “The series is a lighthearted mishmash of themes and ideas and feels like it’s still a sketch on the drawing board, rather than a fully realized story with a beginning, middle and end.”

However, the rest of the reviews remain very positive, and I’m sure “A Man on the Inside” will crash Netflix’s top 10 at some point. TV Insider’s Matt Roush also convinced me to enjoy it this weekend in his review: “I found A Man on the Inside incredibly moving and entertaining, often fighting back tears as I enjoyed this showcase for some of the most valuable TV movies. and still shining stars.”

Should you stream ‘A Man on the Inside’?

Charles (Ted Danson) is standing on a corner near Netflix "A man within"

(Image credit: Colleen E. Hayes/Netflix)

Yes, I think you should absolutely stream “A Man on the Inside” this weekend if you like a charming comedy with lots of humor and emotion.

While “A Man on the Inside” is undoubtedly a comedy about espionage, it is just as much a heartfelt exploration of aging, friendship and the challenges of loneliness. Sure, the show plays with the cozy mystery format, but at its core it’s a story about older adults rediscovering connection and purpose.

Looking for more? Check out the best comedies currently available on Netflix. You should also watch these Netflix movies before they leave at the end of this month.

Stream “A Man on the Inside” on Netflix now.