Streaming exclusively on Stan, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist is the newest drama-fueled musical series featuring a huge cast and a soundtrack of both modern and classic hits. Being aptly described as Glee for grown-ups, the show is the perfect blend of comedy, embarrassingly earnest musical numbers and just enough emotional moments to need the tissues handy (if you have any).
Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist follows the story of Zoey, a tech programmer who has her hands full trying to juggle a chaotic work schedule, an emotional family situation and, on top of everything else, a newly discovered ability – the power to witness people’s thoughts or feelings in the form of song and dance routines that only she can see. Although a little vague in the overall ‘rules’ of the newly acquired skill (why can no one else see or hear it? How much time passes while Zoey’s staring?) the premise is kind of fun and quirky and makes for easy progressions in the storyline, as the songs can be as obvious as they want and give the audience plenty of context almost immediately. The show feels somewhat unique, blending similarities from shows like Glee with something more niche (and techy) like Silicon Valley, balancing comedy and drama perfectly.
What initially drew me into Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist is the exciting cast. A creative yet seamless mix of huge, well-known television regulars such as Jane Levy (Suburgatory), Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls, Parenthood) and Peter Gallagher (yes, Sandy Cohen from The OC himself!) mixed with some familiar faces from the big screen like Skylar Astin (Pitch Perfect) and Mary Steenburgen (Elf, Back to the Future III). The show also introduces a handful of new faces like Michael Thomas Grant and Kapil Talwalkar who both play tech developers. Stand out performances for me so far include Astin, who plays Zoey’s best friend and work colleague and who perfectly balances the humour, cringy musical numbers and heart of the show; or Zoey’s neighbour Mo, played by Alex Newell, who comes through as the confident sidekick with the kickass singing voice and the only person to know about Zoey’s ability.
The show is a lot more mature than I expected; I started episode one fully ready for Glee 2.0 but in reality, it’s a more moving and honest discussion of topics such as chronic illnesses, workplace stress, gender fluidity and the usual friendship and relationship hurdles, with just a dash of comedy and enough musical numbers to remind you what you’re watching for. Unfortunately, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist is only being released one episode at a time, so it’s not entirely binge-watchable yet, however at 45 minutes an episode it will still fill in a few hours, plus with new episodes coming out every Monday the full season will be available before we know it.
So long story short if it’s a distraction you’re needing, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist is a warm-hearted, fun and moving new show with an easy to watch cast of familiar faces and enough sing-along moments to put a smile back on your face.
Score: 4 / 5