Analyzing the Missteps in Billy Crystal’s Unusual Film ‘Before’

In the world of entertainment, the anticipation surrounding a new show can often lead to disappointment when the final product falls short of expectations. Such is the case with the Apple TV+ series "Before," starring Billy Crystal. The show, consisting of 10 episodes, has left both critics and viewers underwhelmed, with many finding it lacking in various aspects.

The premise of "Before" revolves around Eli, a child psychiatrist portrayed by Billy Crystal, who takes on a troubled foster child named Noah. As the story unfolds, eerie connections between Noah’s issues and Eli’s past come to light, leading to a narrative that delves into themes of grief, trauma, and the supernatural. Despite the potential for an engaging storyline, the execution of the show has left much to be desired.

One of the glaring issues with "Before" is its title, which fails to resonate with the audience or convey the essence of the series effectively. The choice of title raises questions about its relevance to the plot and leaves viewers puzzled rather than intrigued. Additionally, the show’s tone struggles to find a balance between mystery, horror, and drama, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience that lacks a cohesive identity.

Billy Crystal’s performance in "Before" is commendable, showcasing his versatility as an actor. However, the character he portrays falls flat, lacking the depth and charisma expected from a talent like Crystal. The repetitive nature of certain plot elements, such as recurring dream sequences and dialogue, further detracts from the overall viewing experience, making the storytelling feel stagnant and predictable.

Furthermore, the visual effects in "Before," particularly the use of tentacles in Noah’s hallucinations, fail to create a sense of unease or suspense. The CGI tentacles come across as gimmicky rather than genuinely frightening, undermining the show’s attempts at creating a chilling atmosphere. The lackluster execution of key scenes, including a pivotal moment involving collapsing children, highlights the show’s inconsistent tone and pacing issues.

As the series progresses towards its conclusion, the narrative struggles to provide a satisfying resolution to the mysteries it introduces. Critics have expressed disappointment with the finale, citing unresolved plot threads and a lack of closure as major drawbacks. The decision to set up a potential second season without adequately addressing existing storylines has left many feeling unsatisfied with the overall direction of the show.

In conclusion, "Before" may have had the potential to be a compelling psychological drama, but its shortcomings in storytelling, character development, and execution have hindered its impact. As viewers navigate the ever-expanding landscape of streaming content, discerning audiences may find "Before" to be a lackluster addition to the Apple TV+ lineup.