Wilfred

Wilfred is a somewhat surreal, dark comedy-drama that was aired on IFC from 2007 to 2010. Adapted from an Australian series of the same name and brought to life by Jason Gann and Adam Zwar, Wilfred follows the unusual journey of Ryan Newman, an introverted and troubled man grappling with life’s existential questions, represented by Elijah Wood (known for roles in Lord of the Rings) and the anthropomorphic dog Wilfred (played by the co-creator, Jason Gann).

The premise of the show hinges on an intriguing concept: to everyone else, Wilfred is just an ordinary dog, but to Ryan, he appears as a large, scruffy, disturbingly crude man-in-a-dog-costume who speaks English, smokes cigarettes, and exhibits distinctly human behaviors. This unique dynamic between Ryan and Wilfred forms the foundation of the series, leading to many hilarious, bizarre, and occasionally dark events in the story.

The series begins with Ryan, a former lawyer, on the brink of crisis, confronting professional failure and personal disconnection from his family and friends. His life takes a turn when he meets Wilfred, his new neighbor’s pet. Wilfred, with human-like comprehension and a manipulative edge, becomes both the harbinger of chaos and the catalyst for change in Ryan's life.

The show leverages its odd premise to explore complex themes like mental health, loneliness, friendship, faith, and the meaning of life. Audiences are whisked off on an emotional rollercoaster that veers between laughter, shock, and introspection as they follow the inexplicable friendship between Ryan and Wilfred.

A characteristic feature of Wilfred is its unconventional humor. Comedy isn't served up in easy, digestible chunks, but rather it's interwoven with moments of bleak drama and hard-hitting emotional exposition. The humor oscillates from light, slapstick comedy to dark satire and unsettling observations about the human condition.

Shot in a single-camera setup, the show has a relatively low-key aesthetic that serves well to ground its fantastical elements in reality. Often, episodes are structured thematically, with each one exploring a different life lesson or moral quandary.

Elijah Wood brings life to the character of Ryan with his nuanced portrayal. His expressive eyes and subtle emotional shifts add depth to the character, underscoring his internal struggles with depression and existential angst. Jason Gann, as the titular Wilfred, unquestionably steals the show with his offbeat performance. His embodiment of the crude, often offensive, yet somehow endearing Wilfred provides much of the show’s humor and unpredictability.

While the premise of Wilfred is undoubtedly strange, the show displays a rare audacity in playing out its bizarre plotlines without flinching. It bravely embraces its eccentricities and, over its progress, makes a profound statement about the nature of perception, human relationships, and our often flawed attempts at navigating life's more complex issues.

Wilfred also has a strong presence of supporting characters including Ryan’s sister Kristen, neighbor Jenna, and her boyfriend Drew. They all add distinct color to the narrative and provide different perspectives on Ryan’s unusual circumstances.

Featuring a remarkably unique concept and avant-garde humor, Wilfred is a distinct addition to the IFC programming roster. It's a brave foray into the surreal, exploring the depths of human experience and the power of perception through a relationship that's equal parts improbable, hilarious, and thought-provoking.

In summary, Wilfred is an unconventional comedy series that follows the unlikely friendship of a depressed man and his neighbor's pet dog. Revolving around themes of mental health, loneliness, and the human journey, it delights, surprises, and makes viewers ponder simultaneously. Despite its apparently absurd premise, Wilfred handles its subject matter with rare audacity and creativity that's ultimately rewarding for those who prefer shows on the path less travelled.