How does one go about reviewing Arrested Development Season 4? Unlike a standard TV programs, this Netflix exclusive is meant to be watched in block sittings. The format has been changed so that each episode is no longer one narrative story or chapter in the overall Bluth Saga. Each episode tells what happened to one character during the same 5 year period. Multiple characters interact with each other in tangential ways, however each episode focuses on one member of the Bluth clan’s adventures. Often the narrative is left incomplete. For example an earlier episode about Michael will tease a major plot element in GOB’s story. A conversation will be truncated in one episode and resumed four episodes later. It’s an interesting way to tell a story, creating for a very engrossing series. Instead of 15 half hour episodes, its really on 7-8 hour program. The narrative is staggeringly complex
The original series was so well loved and ended in such a satisfying (albeit early) way, that any sequel needed to really bring it’s A game. So how is the 8 hour movie hogde pogde Arrested Development follow up? Overall its a pretty good sequel to the series. There are enough call backs to the original run to keep loyal fans happy, and enough new material to make it feel fresh. The ridiculous character humor is all there and it is hilarious, but there is something different. The jokes are a touch more bitter. The characters are a little more extreme. The humor is a tiny bit darker. In the original series each member of the Bluth family has some kind of line they never crossed. As a rule each of them crossed that line in season 4. In some cases it makes the characters less likeable. Michael who’s primary motivator has always been his son and family, now is motivated by his personal interests. The middle Bluth son has always been the character to root for. Sure he was as crazy and narcissistic as the rest, but that was masked by some vague positive traits. He comes off as scummy and cruel. For characters like Lindsey and Tobias, their stories are taken in completely different directions than were previously explored. It lets them grow as characters, as much as is possible on a show who’s title means stagnation.
I’ve read many reviews that have been mixed about the series. I definitely understand them. It takes about five or six episodes for the series to reach critical mass, and fully come into its own. The earlier episodes feel like there is something missing until the puzzle pieces are filled in. As a whole I feel as though the series is positive. There are similar spy mysteries out there. The biggest problem with Arrested Development season 4 is not in the beginning. The early episode’s build up is worth the latter’s payoff. The problem, without getting into too many spoilers is that the ending isn’t an ending. There isn’t just one cliff hanger. There’s about a dozen. It doesn’t detract from the story. It leaves the audience hungry for more. Its a nasty little trick but I think we haven’t heard the end of this tale.
On a Scale of 1 to Epic (Epic = 10): 
