How Prime Video's It's Not Like That Explores Grief and Faith

Discovering the Heart of Grief and Faith in Television

Prime Video's latest series, It's Not Like That, dives headfirst into the complex worlds of grief and faith, presenting viewers with a heartfelt drama that resonates with families facing similar challenges. Premiering on January 25, 2026, this show, produced by the Wonder Project, features a compelling narrative crafted by Ian Deitchman and Kristin Robinson, who are well-known for their work on the beloved TV series Parenthood.

A Unique Blend of Comedy, Drama, and Family Dynamics

The story centers on Malcolm Jeffries, played by Scott Foley, a pastor grappling with the loss of his wife, Jenny, to cancer. As he transitions into single parenthood alongside his three children, Flora, Penelope, and Justin, viewers witness the varying ways each family member copes with their mother's passing. Flora, for instance, rebels against her faith, mirroring the struggles of adolescents navigating personal turmoil amidst family tragedy. Meanwhile, Malcolm’s alliance with his wife’s best friend, Lori Soto, portrayed by Erinn Hayes, breeds additional layers of emotional complexity.

Relatable Themes Resonate with Audiences

What sets It's Not Like That apart from other faith-based dramas is its genuine portrayal of characters and relatable storytelling. Critics have praised the series for its natural depiction of faith without attempting to preach overly moralistic views. For instance, the show captures not only the adults' perspectives but also presents the emotional turmoil of children facing life-altering changes. This dual narrative enriches the viewing experience, evoking empathy from audiences as they witness the characters’ struggles to reconstruct their lives.

Critical Reception: A Promising Start

The show has already garnered positive reviews from various outlets. TV Fanatic describes it as “a charming, layered revival of the family drama,” noting the relatable characters and heartfelt themes that resonate with viewers from different walks of life. Meanwhile, others, like Forbes, have highlighted the show's character development and the investment that audiences will feel towards the characters’ journeys. The series' potential to inspire hope amid loss suggests that it will be a notable entry in the contemporary television landscape.

How Family Dynamics Shift in Times of Crisis

The dynamics between Malcolm and Lori provide a compelling backdrop for exploring themes of loss and the potential for new beginnings. As their friendship blossoms into something more, viewers are drawn into their emotional and relational journey. It prompts a question that many may ponder: can two people, both broken by life’s ruptures, find solace and strength in their bond? As the storyline unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how these issues are tackled, especially within the context of a church community.

Faith and Modernity: A Balancing Act

Although the series takes a faith-based approach, it does not shy away from discussing contemporary issues faced by many in society today. The interplay between various religious beliefs and personal convictions is another layer that adds richness to the narrative. For instance, the inclusion of Malcolm’s friendship with a Muslim imam portrays the challenges and beauty of interfaith relationships while also inviting deeper dialogue about belief and acceptance in today's world.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Future Episodes

With eight episodes planned, the first two episodes debuted together and future episodes will be released weekly. This structure not only builds anticipation but allows viewers to digest the emotional weight of each story arc. As the series progresses, it will be fascinating to see how it balances the lighter moments of humor interwoven within its heavier themes of grief, love, and community.

Final Thoughts: An Invitation to Reflect

Ultimately, It's Not Like That invites audiences to reflect on their own journeys as they navigate faith, loss, and human connection. For anyone looking for content that combines humor with heartfelt storytelling, this series promises to be a standout watch this year.

As we explore our own complex stories, let's embrace the conversations inspired by this show. How do we cope with loss, and how does faith shape our paths forward? Tune in, and let these stories resonate in your heart.