Apples Never Fall (2024 TV Mini Series) – Confronting Family Issues

Many TV shows feature missing or dead women as central plot points, not just in zombie or crime dramas, but also in prestigious series like “Apples Never Fall” on Peacock, where even Annette Bening’s character might fit into this trope.

In “Apples Never Fall,” Annette Bening plays Joy Delaney, the mother of four adult children from a tennis-focused family. When Joy disappears, her children face their family’s past issues, including the suspicion that their father, played by Sam Neill, might be involved.

In “Apples Never Fall,” Joy’s character unfolds through flashbacks and others’ perspectives, reminiscent of Faulkner’s style. She drives the plot, yet mostly in her absence, revealing her role as the family’s rock, often overlooked by her loved ones. Despite being the one who held everything together, she was taken for granted by her children, who only realize her true value when she’s gone.

In a heartbreaking revelation, Joy’s loneliness is revealed when she called each of her children on the day she disappeared, but none of them answered. She finds solace in Savannah, a troubled young woman who becomes close to her by listening and helping around the house. Joy expresses the pain of being let down by her own children, encapsulating a central theme of the story. “Apples Never Fall” serves as a commentary on how society often fails women, drawing parallels to Liane Moriarty’s previous work in “Big Little Lies.”

In “Apples Never Fall,” two tragedies unfold: the mystery of Joy’s disappearance and potential death, and the realization that despite saving her children and loving them deeply, they fail to appreciate her. Joy’s relentless care and sacrifices go unnoticed by her family, who only recognize her value when it may be too late. Even her accomplishments outside the home, like her tennis career and managing the club with her husband, are overshadowed by her husband’s success in the eyes of their children and the audience.

In “Apples Never Fall,” the cast skillfully portrays the tension and complexity of their characters. Allison Brie brings depth to Amy, portraying her struggles with her unconventional beliefs without making her a caricature. Jake Lacy’s portrayal of Troy showcases a wounded character grappling with his past mistakes. Younger siblings Brooke and Logan, played by Essie Randles and Conor Merrigan Turner, convey a mix of fear and vulnerability, occasionally lashing out despite their mother’s influence looming over them.

In “Apples Never Fall,” the setting mirrors the characters’ privileges and flaws. Set in Miami, the backdrop includes tennis courts, country clubs, boats, and luxury cars. The Delaney family home is comfortable but slightly cluttered, reflecting their hidden secrets. This aesthetic conveys an air of respectability and the idealized image that Joy Delaney portrays of her family. Similarly, the siblings’ homes reflect their personalities and struggles: Troy’s is spacious and modern, Amy’s is a shared bungalow, Logan’s is practical and nautical-themed, and Brooke’s is well-lit and cozy but destined for trouble.

In “Apples Never Fall,” the combination of a smart script, editing, and Annette Bening’s performance ensures that Joy’s character avoids being reduced to a mere plot device. Bening’s portrayal keeps Joy strong yet vulnerable, showcasing her as a flawed and dynamic woman content with her life choices despite her current struggles. Bening’s extraordinary talent allows her to portray warmth, which unfortunately causes others to overlook her achievements and complexity. Nevertheless, her portrayal insists on Joy’s humanity, even when others try to diminish it.

The main lesson of “Apples Never Fall” is to appreciate and respect the mothers, women, and adults who have protected us when we couldn’t protect ourselves. Their work is challenging and vital, yet often undervalued in our society. This failure to recognize their contributions is a tragic flaw in our social structure.