In the penultimate episode of Netflix’s “One Day,” Tilly, portrayed by the delightful Amber Grappy, muses, “God, I love it when you guys fight. Ooh, trouble in paradise… I do! I mean, it just means you have a normal ordinary relationship.” These words strike a chord as they reflect the unconventional love story of our heroine Emma Morley, portrayed with charm by Ambika Mod, and her love interest Dexter Mayhew, perfectly embodied by Leo Woodall. Their relationship is far from ordinary; it’s the stuff of legend and sentimental romances, reminiscent of tales like “The Notebook.” Based on David Nicholls’ novel, the serialized adaptation on Netflix follows the journey of these star-crossed lovers as they intersect, diverge, and intersect again on the same date, July 15, over the years.
Before their romantic entanglement, Emma and Dex undergo significant personal growth, evolving from close friends to individuals who inspire each other. The series format allows for a deeper exploration of their characters compared to the 2011 film adaptation, with Woodall’s portrayal of the charming yet flawed Dex standing out. Mod’s depiction of Emma, a woman of color navigating social and economic challenges, adds depth to their dynamic.
Set against the backdrop of the late 1980s onwards, “One Day” skillfully captures the essence of each era through authentic costumes and subtle aging of the characters. But its strength lies in portraying the intense love story between two seemingly disparate individuals who find a connection despite societal norms. The episodic structure effectively showcases their journey from strangers to best friends to partners, with each episode offering insight into their evolving relationship.
While the series excels in plot development and character exploration, it occasionally falters in pacing during periods of separation between Emma and Dex. Additionally, the use of musical cues can feel overly dramatic at times, dictating emotions rather than allowing them to unfold naturally.
However, the series ultimately earns its culmination in Emma and Dex’s union, showcasing their profound connection and growth over time. Unfortunately, the story takes a tragic turn towards the end, undermining much of the charm and goodwill built throughout the series. This abrupt shift in tone feels clichéd and diminishes Emma’s character arc, leaving a bittersweet aftertaste to an otherwise compelling tale of love and resilience.