Watch Good Grief

Good Grief is a heartwarmingly relatable and sincere coming-of-age dramedy from TVNZ 1 that follows the life of a 27-year-old NZ native, Ngaire (Eve Palmer). Ngaire is still struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of her father, and consequently, she is grappling with grief in all its dimensions. As she tries to navigate her way through life, she is joined on this emotional and comedic journey by her two best friends, Julia (Grace Palmer) and Jared (Vinnie Bennett).

Throughout the show, we see how the effects of grief ripple through Ngaire's daily life as she tries to hold onto her identity amidst the seemingly endless waves of sorrow. To that end, the audience is treated to a plethora of poignant and uplifting moments that range from mundane to magical, and everything in between. The show weaves together a beautiful tapestry of moments, characters, and experiences that underscore the complexities and challenges of navigating grief.

Ngaire's relationship with her friends is at the core of the show, and we see how their camaraderie helps her heal and move on from her loss. Julia and Jared are, in essence, the yin to Ngaire's yang; their eccentricities and quirks are a perfect counterbalance to Ngaire's somber dispositions, making for a dynamic bond that great TV friendships are made of.

Throughout the show, we also come across notable side characters, and each one gives us a glimpse into the various ways in which grief colors their experiences. These characters act as Ngaire's support system, and for some, they provide a much-needed break from their own struggles with loss.

This show breaks new ground for television, as it tackles difficult subject matter with taste and sensitivity while also infusing that rawness with a delightful levity that keeps the audience engaged. Although grief is a dominant theme throughout the show, it is handled adeptly, complementing the lighter aspects of the narrative. This approach ensures that the show strikes a balance that never feels too heavy or contrived.

Good Grief has a warm, inviting tone that creates an immediate connection between the audience and the characters. The setting of the show--NZ--is highlighted beautifully by the show's cinematography, as it showcases the beauty of the country and the life that the characters lead.

Eve Palmer is a standout as Ngaire; she imbues the character with a vulnerability and authenticity that never seems forced or overdone. Palmer's performance is honest, and she captures the erratic nature of grief with skill and nuance. Her co-stars, Grace Palmer and Vinnie Bennett, are equally fantastic as the dynamic duo, Julia and Jared.

Grace Palmer's Julia is full of life and exuberance, always bringing an infectious energy that is impossible to ignore. Bennett's Jared is the calming presence that grounds the show; he is a rock-solid figure that exudes a sense of calm and stability amidst the chaos of Ngaire's grieving process.

Good Grief is a show that has something for everyone. It is a story of growing up, navigating adulthood, and dealing with the loss of unique and cherished relationships. The show is a testament to the fact that we never really get over our grief, but instead, we learn to carry it with us every day.

In a world that often feels tumultuous, Good Grief is a welcome respite from the barrage of negativity that surrounds us daily. With its poignant writing, endearing characters, and relatable themes, the show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a heartwarming and sincere television experience.

Good Grief is a series that ran for 2 seasons (13 episodes) between September 30, 2021 and on TVNZ 1