"Emily in Paris" returned to Netflix on August 15 for season four by releasing part one. This season is full of drama and heartbreak between multiple characters. Featuring Lily Collins as Emily, she is figuring out who she wants. Will it be Gabriel (Lucas Bravo) or Alfie (Lucien Laviscount)?
This first part of the season is about the struggles Emily deals with in choosing between Gabriel and Alfie. This love triangle takes up all of her energy, all while she remains working for Grateau. She continues to strive for greatness and has a close relationship with Slyvie (Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu). The projects that Emily takes on can be difficult considering the drama. Another decision she has to make is her friendship with Camille, who is pregnant with Gabriel’s child. This decision affects her whole life, and she goes on an adventure to find out where Camille went as Camille disappears within the first episode of the new season which takes everyone on a whirlwind.
Highs
This season's plot revolves around the highs. The pregnancy of Camille (Camille Razat) adds a fresh dimension of drama to the plot. Emily and Camille have a close, passionate connection, but they also renew their friendship. While putting her happiness first, Emily tries her hardest to mend her relationship with Camille. An additional positive is the growing intimacy between Emily and Slyvie. They make a formidable team, which says a lot given how much Sylvie detested Emily.
Emily's chemistry with Gabriel and Alfie is another highlight. This demonstrates her affection for them both and her eventual need to decide who brings her the greatest happiness. Furthermore, this season's humor is brimming with jokes thanks to characters like Luc (Bruno Gourey) and Mindy (Ashley Park). This season's quips are amusing and add a playful humor to the viewing experience.
The clothes this season are also a standout; they are amazing. Seeing these characters' clothing is always lovely. It makes you feel as though you are in Paris. Each character's personality is displayed through their outfits. Some are fascinating and vibrant. Gabriel's restaurant is the final high point. It still succeeds because of how elegant and tasteful the restaurant is.
Lows
The negative points of this season are mostly related to Camille's demeanor. Her animosity toward Emily detracts from the overall tone of the program. Sofia, Camille's girlfriend, is another character with negative opinions. Her persona ignored everything that had transpired in Camille's life and showed no maternal support for the child. She acts passively aggressively and with regret against Camille.
Nicolas's father is a sad point; he treats Mindy indifferently. Considering how much she cares about Nicolas, it is upsetting that he does not defend her. His father feels negatively about Mindy because of her attire as he claims it is unfit for their families to see. Another low has to do with how Nicolas reacts to Mindy when she disagrees with something. Specifically, his father's abuse of girls and Nicolas should have stood up to him rather than obey him.
Verdict
The first part of the new season of "Emily in Paris" is full of drama and humor. It has an interesting plot that keeps the audience on their feet. It is worth continuing this series considering the plot twists. The first part of this season is intriguing, the next part is going to be even better.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Mariam Fakhreddine is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. She has worked as a news and features reporter for The Echo for two years.
