Unraveling the Secrets of the Delaney Family in “Apples Never Fall”
Liane Moriarty, the author of “Big Little Lies” and “Nine Perfect Strangers,” has made a name for herself in both literature and television. With her latest work, “Apples Never Fall,” Moriarty continues to deliver a captivating story that is bound for the small screen. The upcoming Peacock production, with an impressive cast led by Sam Neill and Annette Bening, promises to bring Moriarty’s intricate plot to life.
Much like many of Moriarty’s stories, “Apples Never Fall” is a mystery wrapped within a mystery. The narrative jumps back and forth in time, labeling each sequence as “then” or “now.” With only seven episodes, this limited series effectively explores the premise without becoming overwhelming.
At its core, “Apples Never Fall” revolves around the Delaney family and their accomplished tennis coaches Stan (Neill) and Joy (Bening). Their past students include their four children: Alison Brie as Amy, Jake Lacy as Gary, Conor Merrigan-Turner as Daniel, and Essie Randles as Tess. As Stan and Joy approach retirement, they are interrupted by Savannah (Georgia Flood), a young woman seeking refuge from an abusive boyfriend.
Savannah’s arrival causes tension among the children and eventually Stan, who becomes increasingly suspicious of his wife’s new companion. When Joy goes missing, a frantic search ensues, leading to the discovery of various family secrets that threaten already fragile relationships. Old wounds are reopened, opportunities squandered, and resentment lurks beneath the surface.
Showrunner Melanie Marnich expertly unfurls the clues in this intricate tale, leaving viewers guessing and keeping them engaged until the resolution. While not as satisfying as it could have been, the conclusion still leaves a good taste in one’s mouth.
“Apples Never Fall,” which premieres on Peacock on March 14, is an enjoyable binge and a fine vehicle for the talented cast. However, it may not receive the same level of attention on Peacock as it might on another streaming platform. Nonetheless, the show’s appeal lies in its clever writing and captivating storytelling that is quintessentially Moriarty.
The “Apples Never Fall” adaptation reinforces the notion that Moriarty’s books are ideally suited for limited series, making it a fortuitous timing for both Moriarty and Peacock. In tennis, “love” signifies nothing; however, in this context, it means a great deal indeed. As the age-old question goes, “How do you like them apples?” The answer is, quite a lot.
