Bridge and Tunnel

Bridge and Tunnel, is a six-part drama-comedy series that premiered on the premium cable network, Epix in January 2021. The series was created, written, and directed by Edward Burns, a renowned and critically acclaimed actor, producer, and director known for his impeccable ability to capture human emotions and societal nuances.

Set in an era before the internet or the prevalence of cell phones, the show transports viewers to 1980, revolving around a group of recent college graduates setting out to pursue their dreams in Manhattan, while clinging to their working-class roots in their hometown, Long Island, New York. The Bridge and Tunnel title is a present-day term used to describe people living in the Metropolitan New York areas outside of Manhattan, primarily in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island, Queens, and New Jersey. The title aptly captures the inherent dichotomy the characters in the series face – the pull between the opulent, fast-paced life of the big city and the comfort and familiarity of their small-town homes.

The series boasts a vibrant ensemble cast that includes Sam Vartholomeos, Caitlin Stasey, Gigi Zumbado, Jan Luis Castellanos, Brian Muller, and Isabella Farrell. Their characters represent various aspects of the classic coming-of-age trope, from unrequited love and pursuing wild dreams to struggling with personal and familial expectations. Despite the differences in their individual pursuits, the bond they share, rooted in shared history, innocent friendship, and simple small-town charm, binds them together.

Edward Burns plays the role of Artie, father to the lead character, Jimmy, portrayed by Sam Vartholomeos. Jimmy is a passionate photographer, dreaming of a bright future at National Geographic but weighed down by his aging father's expectations to join the business.

Meanwhile, Jill, performed by Caitlin Stasey, represents a young woman who has got the rare opportunity to work in the alluring Manhattan world of high fashion. However, her relationship with Jimmy and the lure of her family and community ties is a constant reminder of her roots.

Described as a love letter to a bygone era, the show captures the universal struggles of growing up with a masterful blend of comedy and drama. There are overtones of class conflict, the pull between ambition and loyalty, and the push and pull between love and freedom.

Certain charms of Bridge and Tunnel are its attention to the 1980's details, from classic muscle cars, vinyl records, to the casual fashion of printed midi skirts, broad lapel shirts, and high-waist jeans. It indeed reflects the nostalgic aura of the said era.

Bridge and Tunnel shows a period when the world feels wide open to the characters and it echoes the pictures of suburban adolescence that turn on the pivotal moment of facing a future where everything is possible, yet everything is in doubt. The focus, however, remains clear - it is more about defining the people you want in your life than figuring out what you want to do with it.

Complementing its beautiful narrative, script, and cinematography is the show's period soundtrack, which beautifully underlines every twist and turn. It consists of an array of popular '80s tracks that amplify the charm of every scene.

Critics have acclaimed the series for its warm, heartfelt look at the post-college transition phase, and it's grasp on the lingo, look, and local color of the time. Bridge and Tunnel may telegraph its punches a bit, but the familiarity breeds more charm than contempt. It captures the hope, love, struggle and occasional pain and sorrow laden in the pursuit of dreams, while battling the class lines drawn by society.

In summary, Bridge and Tunnel is a slice-of-life series that invites viewers into a not-so-distant past to relax, reminisce, and enjoy a heartfelt story of love, dream-chasing, and enduring friendship. Its engaging narrative and well-executed glimpses into 1980's suburban New York lend it a poignant nostalgia, making it a must-watch for those who adore tales of life, aspiration, and companionship.