Synopsis
State of the Union is a sharply observed, dialogue-driven series that unfolds in ten-minute episodes, each set in a pub just before a couple’s weekly therapy session. Season 1 follows Tom and Louise, whose marriage is quietly unravelling as they dissect their past and present over drinks. Season 2 shifts focus to Scott and Ellen, an older couple grappling with generational divides and modern relationship norms. Written by Nick Hornby and directed by Stephen Frears, the show thrives on its minimalist setup and emotionally layered conversations. With just two characters per season and a single location, it delivers surprising depth, humour, and poignancy – a masterclass in short-form storytelling.
Tim’s Take: I love Nick Hornby’s work (particularly High Fidelity), but hadn’t heard of State of the Union. I was scrolling Netflix’s comedy section and stumbled upon it by chance. I’ve loved Chris O’Dowd’s past performances too. I loved both O’Dowd and Pike’s performances in State of the Union, coupled with Hornby’s witty opinions and analogies on relationships and marriage. The 10 minute nature of each episode helps keep the dialogue tight too and never feel like it outstays it’s welcome. If you’ve enjoyed Hornby’s previous work, State of the Union is a must watch. WYALAN Rating 4/5
Where to Stream
- Available on Netflix UK
For Fans Of
- Modern Love – Anthology series exploring love in all its forms, based on New York Times essays.
- Scenes from a Marriage – Intimate, emotionally raw portrayal of a couple’s evolving relationship.
- Couples Therapy – Documentary series offering real-life insight into therapy sessions.
- Before Midnight – A couple revisits their relationship during a single evening in Greece.
- Fleabag – Witty, fourth-wall-breaking exploration of grief, love, and messy relationships.
Cast and Characters
Season 1
- Chris O’Dowd as Tom — known for Bridesmaids, The IT Crowd, Calvary
- Rosamund Pike as Louise — known for Gone Girl, I Care a Lot, Die Another Day
Season 2
- Brendan Gleeson as Scott — known for In Bruges, The Banshees of Inisherin, Harry Potter
- Patricia Clarkson as Ellen — known for Sharp Objects, Six Feet Under, The Station Agent
- Esco Jouléy as Jay — known for High Maintenance, The Politician, Blindspotting
Writers and Directors
- Nick Hornby (Writer) — known for High Fidelity, About a Boy, Brooklyn
- Stephen Frears (Director) — known for The Queen, Philomena, Dangerous Liaisons
Awards and IMDb Score
- 🏅 4 Primetime Emmy wins (including Best Short Form Series, Actor, Actress)
- 🏅 5 wins & 4 nominations total
- ⭐ IMDb rating: 7.7/10