From Scratch

I read the book earlier in the year and didn't realize the series adaptation was already out on Netflix. This has to be one of the most underrated series on Netflix. As somebody who did read the book, it still felt like I was just experiencing the material for the first time. The book and series are two different things but both were able to execute the same types of emotions you're supposed to feel. Saldana was perfectly casted for the role! She was an amazing lead all throughout the episodes. I loved how this story/adaptation could've been some typical Emily in Paris or sicklit. But it is not. It sheds light on concepts you'd think by now people are aware of yet don't want to explicitly talk about it. It's so beautifully heartbreaking. From having passions, cultural explorations, falling in love, building a life and a family etc. This series perfectly captured what its like dealing with a sick spouse. Esp when them or their family is from an entirely diff culture/country. I think nobody ever talks about it or nobody really understands that feeling. I think people only understands what happens after. Dealing with diff doctors, communicating with other relatives, letting your sibling take care of your child etc., nobody ever talks about those things. Even till the very end of taking family photos with Lino before his passing. For me, I wish they had more Italian moments in Italy in the beginning of the series or even around the middle of the series. They dabbled only a little bit on the cultural clashes but not to the extent of the book. The series focused way more with the sickness. If you haven't read the book, I highly recommend. It's not that long of a book, but just like the series, it's worth genuinely gluing your eyes on. The material is alot without actually feeling too heavy. Both versions are worth consuming not in a crazy binging way imo. I hope to see Stewart x Witherspoon collabs more in the future for book to screen adaptations. They know how to do miniseries format. Even though they're not my personal fav adaptations, they still do a good job when it comes to translating complex stories and characters on the screen.