Boy Machine

Boy Machine is an exciting and engaging show from 2015 by FLX. Even though it's a Swedish production, subtitled for non-Swedish speakers, the universally relatable themes and humor make it accessible to everyone, regardless of their language or nationality. The plot revolves around four 40-something men who try to reclaim their boy band glory. Once upon a time, they were on top of the Swedish pop industry, known as Boy Machine.

The now-forty-something band members led different lives following their band's demise. Peter, played by Henrik Dorsin, is a single father who works from his garage. Jens, played by David Taylor, made a career for himself as a professional party singer at weddings and corporate events. Torkel, played by Peter Magnusson, who was the heartthrob of the group, leads an uneventful life after a moderately successful solo career. Niklas Engdahl playing the role of Mats, was the genius of the band but succumbed to drug addiction which derailed his life.

In the debut season of Boy Machine, the four men find themselves in a variety of hilarious and seemingly hopeless situations as they make an attempt to reach the charts again. They decide regardless of the gap in their ages and lifestyles after the group split, to get back together and reclaim their glory. The series is a humorous and heartwarming look at middle-aged men grappling with age, dreams, and reality in their quest to recreate their youthful prime.

The originality of the show lies in its overall approach. Boy Machine dares to portray characters which are often not represented on television - middle-aged men who are not only facing the typical struggles of life but are also dealing with their past glory days and trying to rekindle the spark. The fact that their struggles and aspirations are set against the backdrop of the cut-throat music industry adds a deliciously entertaining layer of complexity to the proceedings.

As a band, Boy Machine provides a perfect mixture of nostalgia and comedy to the viewers, backed by a solid soundtrack full of catchy tunes. However, the show is not only about the men striving to attain their lost fame. It explores the dynamics of friendships with a sincere attitude and one can see the relationship among the foursome evolve and mature as they embark on their musical journey.

The show is lighthearted in its tone but doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of life. As the plot unfolds, we witness each of these men personally and collectively confronting their troubles of making a comeback, including maintaining their personal lives, adapting to the music shifts, and rivalry among themselves. Their journey is both funny and heartfelt, maintaining a balance that keeps you engaged.

The humor in the series is a combination of situational comedy and slapstick, and there is an undercurrent of satire as well. It's a show that never takes itself too seriously yet manages to bring depth to its characters and surprising poignancy to their journey.

Each episode is well-paced, and the story never feels dragged. Boy Machine showcases the talent of its central characters as well as that of its creators, who manage to present a comedy that's also a heartwarming tale of friendship, second chances, and dreams that never die. The actors are all commendably apt in their roles, providing the skill necessary to portray the complexity of their characters.

A standout element of the show is the music itself. The songs are funny, catchy, and truly essential to the show, offering viewers an amusing glimpse into Boy Machine’s past and present as a band. The blend of lyrics, humor, and performance makes the music stand out in the television industry.

Overall, Boy Machine from FLX is not just another typical comedy show. It is unique because it combines elements of drama, humor, and music in a way rarely seen on television. For those on the lookout for something refreshing, Boy Machine proves to be an engaging and entertaining watch. Its approach to storytelling coupled with its humor and heart makes for a truly standout series that deserves your attention.