I am a sucker for a series filled with romance and comedy, and ABC gave us just that – but with its own twist! Manhattan Love Story premiered today, and the premise is small town girl moves to the big city and is set up on a blind date by some of her friends. They go on a date and a ton of romantic comedy material gets thrown into the mix. Sounds like a typical show, right? But ABC decided to throw in a twist! We get to hear every single thought that is running through the characters’ minds about one another. Now that just has juicy written all over it!
In the series premiere, we go on this journey together with the protagonists, Dana and Peter. Both have completely different personalities, but they complement each other very well. Dana, who is from a small town, is determined to explore and make a name for herself in Manhattan. Excitement is in her eyes despite her awkwardness and shyness. But Peter, who grew up in Manhattan, is in a bit of a rut. The thrill of the city is lost on him because of its familiarity.
The episode opens up with us hearing the thoughts that are going through each of the characters’ heads. We all know that guys and ladies think differently, and this scene acts on that fact. While Peter is checking out who he can hit on or pass, Dana is checking out other people’s bags. What girl doesn’t love a great bag?! But for a split second, they pass by each other and are immediately attracted to one another. In a crazy, busy city, we probably have all found ourselves in that situation. One where we are taking mental notes of the surroundings and immediately categorizing things and people for face value. From here, the show is comedic and lighthearted.
Dana moves in with her friends, who are a couple, so she immediately looks like she is third wheeling. But it does not rain on her parade as she starts her career in publishing. I am so jealous that her job is in publishing and in Manhattan; it does not get any better than that in my eyes. Anything can happen in television, I suppose. But seeing as she is the odd man out, her friends decide to set her up on a blind date. Though both seem reluctant, they come in with an open mind.
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Dana’s blind date is with Peter, who she passed by walking the streets of Manhattan earlier as she was checking out bags. Funny how situations work themselves out like that. The date goes from bad to worse as she was already caught picking at her teeth outside the restaurant and later talks about the bucket list she wants to accomplish. The bucket list seems like such a tourist-like thing to do, and it obviously does not excite Peter. But for a local, I do see where he’s coming from – he just does not have to be so harsh about it.
So as an apology, he decides to give the list a try and help her accomplish the things on it. Looks like this episode does have a mini happily-ever-after. Also, the two can learn a bit from one another. Maybe Peter can start looking at Manhattan through Dana’s eyes.
From the supporting characters to the rival at work, some elements of the show seem formulaic. I just hope it is not like all the other love-driven shows we have seen. But needless to say, I am look forward to what’s to come. The show is charming and funny, even though it’s rough around the edges still. It should be interesting to watch the series unfold.
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