‘Lessons in Chemistry’: Brie Larson is ‘perfect’ in this ‘addictive ride’ on Apple TV+ [Review Round-Up]

Vincent Mandile
·4 min read
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On October 13, 2023, Apple TV+ premiered “Lessons in Chemistry” starring Oscar winner Brie Larson. The limited series set in the early 1950s follows Elizabeth Zott (played by Larson), whose dream of being a scientist is put on hold in a patriarchal society. When Elizabeth finds herself fired from her lab, she accepts a job as a host on a TV cooking show, and sets out to teach a nation of overlooked housewives — and the men who are suddenly listening — a lot more than recipes.” The ensemble cast includes Lewis Pullman, Aja Naomi King, Stephanie Koenig and Patrick Walker.

Critics have praised the latest Apple limited series, landing the show at 80% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. The critics consensus says, “Touching on several hot button issues while benefitting immensely from a perfect pinch of Brie Larson, ‘Lessons in Chemistry’s’ ambitious ingredients add up to satisfying entertainment.” Read our full review round-up below. 

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SEE ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ trailer: Brie Larson stars in new Apple TV+ limited series [Watch]

Angie Han of The Hollywood Reporter praises the drama, stating, “It’s worth tucking into, thanks to an endearing cast, witty dialogue and easily digestible themes.” She concludes, “The third episode introduces narration from Six Thirty (provided by B.J. Novak), adding poignant new depths to his relationship with his human. What might have been moving on the page, however, plays onscreen as a bizarre, out-of-left-field digression that risks tipping the entire tone of the show into A Dog’s Purpose-style sentimentality. It’s a relief when the voiceover disappears as abruptly as it appeared, and the otherwise lovable Six Thirty is allowed to fade gracefully into the background.”

Carly Lane of Collider writes, “To paraphrase Elizabeth Zott herself, take some time to yourself to embark on the journey Lessons in Chemistry lays out. You’ll probably be surprised by the turns it takes, but that doesn’t make the end result any less satisfying.” Adding, “In many ways, this character feels like the natural next step in Larson’s acting career to date, an unspoken response to criticisms that may have been levied toward her demeanor. In one particularly acute scene later in the season, when a male-dominated focus group is offering feedback about Supper at Six’s first episode, the language of their comments could have been lifted directly from underneath a trailer on YouTube.”

SEE ‘The Changeling’ reviews: LaKeith Stanfield is ‘unimpeachable’ in ‘engrossing and unnerving’ Apple TV+ series

Matthew Creith of The Wrap notes, “The series is an audacious adaptation of the source material and a showcase for its impressive cast and sublime writing. Larson’s first television series lead performance is implemented with gravitas and courage.” He adds, “Change is the foundation for organic chemistry. Like Sheldon Cooper in ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ Elizabeth prides herself on her intelligence, purpose and flat but deliberately voiced opinions. Elizabeth does not willingly take to change, and when life throws her into the deep end, her resilience gets tested repeatedly. These delicate moments are earned in the series largely due to Elizabeth’s strength through her chosen family. It is within these building block moments that the show and Larson’s acting prowess genuinely shine.”

Meghan O’Keefe of Decider says, “Lessons in Chemistry is an addictive ride full of incredible performances, inspiring characters, and one of the best TV romances in some time.” O’Keefe continues, “Overall, though, I was obsessed with the world and characters created by Lessons in Chemistry. The last time a limited series had a similar effect on me? Another mid-century period piece about an equally unconventional and brilliant heroine: ‘The Queen’s Gambit.’ As with that series, we have tragic backstories, orphanage plots, and a chic feminist fighting her own demons alongside the patriarchy. Netflix’s launchpad for Anya-Taylor Joy might edge out ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ in sheer artistry, but Apple TV+’s limited series feels like first real successor show to ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ in more ways than one.”

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