The characters in Red Oaks are incredibly endearing. The storyline is so comforting and simple and well done. disappointed it ended so soon!
101 Reviews
Great Show About A Lost Generation
Eric-865-2140084 May 2020
I think what most people don't really get from this show is that fact regarding the thought process of the 80's kid. They wanted more than the war generation. They not only wanted dreams but wanted to go after them while their parents just sighed.
David represents the common problem kids had back then, big dreams with no wisdom or support from the disillusioned parent. The parent in effect wishes to pass on the disillusionment and almost demands that their child accept it as their dreams are simply foolish in their undertaking.
Having a dream is one thing, having an understanding of how to get there is another. David simply had no understanding of how the world worked because his parents had no idea. This is why the writers were using his boss for those moments of wisdom. Ultimately it was those scenes is what the show was really about. Understanding how you get to where you want to go, and not just be some sap like all these characters represented, destined for disillusionment.
Great acting, characters were played out well enough to understand and feel for them, but it did lack a sense of progression. Even if you have characters who suffer a static life, the story needs progression, and I think the writers ran out of gas.
David is Ferris Bueller with a job. He definitely defies society at the same time embracing it. His awareness of himself was his weakness, allowing himself and people to walk all over him.
Would have loved to see more.
David represents the common problem kids had back then, big dreams with no wisdom or support from the disillusioned parent. The parent in effect wishes to pass on the disillusionment and almost demands that their child accept it as their dreams are simply foolish in their undertaking.
Having a dream is one thing, having an understanding of how to get there is another. David simply had no understanding of how the world worked because his parents had no idea. This is why the writers were using his boss for those moments of wisdom. Ultimately it was those scenes is what the show was really about. Understanding how you get to where you want to go, and not just be some sap like all these characters represented, destined for disillusionment.
Great acting, characters were played out well enough to understand and feel for them, but it did lack a sense of progression. Even if you have characters who suffer a static life, the story needs progression, and I think the writers ran out of gas.
David is Ferris Bueller with a job. He definitely defies society at the same time embracing it. His awareness of himself was his weakness, allowing himself and people to walk all over him.
Would have loved to see more.
Will leave you with a smile on your face.
barneywilson12 November 2015
Set in a country club in the 80's, Red Oaks is a story of the staff and members alike as they work their way through a summer of transition.
It's a feel-good show with likable characters and consistently engaging plot-lines that drag you in until your emotions are undoubtedly invested.
Notable mentions go to Oliver Cooper, who plays drug-dealing valet and lovable rogue 'Wheeler', and 'Nash', a tennis-pro and ace with the ladies, hilariously played by Ennis Esmer.
The cast was flawless with many names worthy of praise, however the stand-out is unquestionably Craig Roberts. Known widely for Richard Ayoade's Submarine, Roberts provides us with a neutral perspective of the chaos unfolding around him.
Ultimately, this is a show that Amazon can be thoroughly proud of, with overwhelmingly positive reviews and an equal number of cliff- hangers in the final episode of the season that I'm sure will leave many fans eagerly awaiting a season 2.
Strong first season and a definite must-watch. 8/10.
P.s - Craig Roberts bears an almost uncanny resemblance to Rob Schneider at times...or maybe it's just me.
It's a feel-good show with likable characters and consistently engaging plot-lines that drag you in until your emotions are undoubtedly invested.
Notable mentions go to Oliver Cooper, who plays drug-dealing valet and lovable rogue 'Wheeler', and 'Nash', a tennis-pro and ace with the ladies, hilariously played by Ennis Esmer.
The cast was flawless with many names worthy of praise, however the stand-out is unquestionably Craig Roberts. Known widely for Richard Ayoade's Submarine, Roberts provides us with a neutral perspective of the chaos unfolding around him.
Ultimately, this is a show that Amazon can be thoroughly proud of, with overwhelmingly positive reviews and an equal number of cliff- hangers in the final episode of the season that I'm sure will leave many fans eagerly awaiting a season 2.
Strong first season and a definite must-watch. 8/10.
P.s - Craig Roberts bears an almost uncanny resemblance to Rob Schneider at times...or maybe it's just me.
Awesome show!!
info-15468-120679 March 2017
I decided to give this show a try and I was immediately hooked! I binge watched the first 2 seasons. Sad to hear that season 3 will be the last. Wish there were more shows this well done on TV. Every character on the show keeps your attention in every scene.Give this show a chance. You will love it!
A warm friendly hug off the TV
forsyth193 February 2017
Recently discussed this show in a bar with a friend I'd recommended it too, who said he and his wife really enjoyed it and that watching it felt like receiving a warm friendly hug off the TV. With some alcohol in my system I felt I knew what he was driving at.
It's a shame Amazon doesn't appear to promote it as much as it could. It probably struggles to define what to sell it on. The first episode leads you to think rehash of Caddyshack but its not that or a gross-out comedy. Then you might think its a laugh at the 'crazy 80s' show like the Goldbergs, its not that either. My own view is its a very well-observed, well-acted, humorous (occasionally lol) coming of age tale that happens to be set in the 1980s, but I guess difficult to fit all that on promotional material.
The writing is excellent at balancing comedy, character development and the occasional emotional, heart-felt moments. The cherry on top is the soundtrack and rediscovering forgotten gems of 80s music - Talk Talk anyone? OK if you're cynical you might say the characters are cliché and could be distilled down to; the every-man, the stoner genius, the spoilt girl, nice but dim girl, the eccentric foreigner, the hard-nosed business man etc etc. But clichés persist as they tend to exist and when then they're this well portrayed all can be forgiven.
Anyway, I think demographics can help decide whether you'll agree with me or not 1) if you're late 30s or older i.e. you can recall a childhood without mobile phones 2)you're the kinda person who once in a blue moon reflects on your early relationships, your university or first job choices - did you really make the right choices? and 3) you just like well-written comedy and enjoy spending some time getting to know and give a damn about likable characters then give this show a go.
Like any good hug, you'll want it to go on, so all fingers crossed for a 3rd series.
It's a shame Amazon doesn't appear to promote it as much as it could. It probably struggles to define what to sell it on. The first episode leads you to think rehash of Caddyshack but its not that or a gross-out comedy. Then you might think its a laugh at the 'crazy 80s' show like the Goldbergs, its not that either. My own view is its a very well-observed, well-acted, humorous (occasionally lol) coming of age tale that happens to be set in the 1980s, but I guess difficult to fit all that on promotional material.
The writing is excellent at balancing comedy, character development and the occasional emotional, heart-felt moments. The cherry on top is the soundtrack and rediscovering forgotten gems of 80s music - Talk Talk anyone? OK if you're cynical you might say the characters are cliché and could be distilled down to; the every-man, the stoner genius, the spoilt girl, nice but dim girl, the eccentric foreigner, the hard-nosed business man etc etc. But clichés persist as they tend to exist and when then they're this well portrayed all can be forgiven.
Anyway, I think demographics can help decide whether you'll agree with me or not 1) if you're late 30s or older i.e. you can recall a childhood without mobile phones 2)you're the kinda person who once in a blue moon reflects on your early relationships, your university or first job choices - did you really make the right choices? and 3) you just like well-written comedy and enjoy spending some time getting to know and give a damn about likable characters then give this show a go.
Like any good hug, you'll want it to go on, so all fingers crossed for a 3rd series.
Oddly Affecting
kingofboise-428244 May 2018
The pilot was a rarity in that I actually cared about the characters and their storylines by the time it ended. And each episode keeps getting better. The pilot comes off a bit raunch-commy with boobs and f-bombs galore, but it simmers down after that, and the bit of mature content that remains serves the storylines. And I find myself, at odd times, getting choked up. The humor and silliness slows down and there are these wonderful moments of empathy and vulnerability-something most half-hour comedies can't pull off.
Great Show
WhenAmyMetSalad28 June 2020
I had cancelled Netflix and took on Prime because I got tired of Netflix cancelling everything I watch. Found this gem and binged it within a week and sad I did. I feel so empty now that the show ended even though I came late to the party. I loved every main character and their story progression. Even though I wish it had one more season or even two I'm glad it ended on a high note. Reminded me of the show Love but set in the 80s. The first episode might not reel you in but it gets better every episode that passes.
I'm so glad I found this!!
Hawkins887 February 2021
Every moment of this excellent series makes me grin from ear to ear. All the characters are perfect and the writing is an awesome mixture of sweetness and hilarity. I discovered this purely by chance in the IMDb recommendations and I'm so glad I did. I can't help that feel that Red Oaks deserves more recognition and praise then it has already received. For me this is up there as one of the greats in the sitcom genre. If your on here looking for a new series to get into than I couldn't recommend Red Oaks enough!
Great series could easily startup again with a Red Oaks reunion season
fdetomajr15 January 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Just finished watching the 2 and half seasons. Brought back some great memories of growing up in the 80s. The closing of red oaks country club was a good ending to the series as David, Wheeler, Misty, and other friends from Red Oaks moved on. But I feel things were left unfinished between Sky and David's relationship potentially rekindling in the future, as well as what could happen with Annabelle from the production company. So much more could have continued on. Amazon Prime should bring back the series with Red Oaks reunion show with one season focusing on where David went in his film career. As well as how Sky's new relationship went with her father Getty meeting her Israeli boyfriend who works in finance. Misty talked about a long term future with Wheeler in the last episode. The reunion season could focus on them getting married with Nash coming up to visit for the wedding, along with Barry being the photographer.
Why Did They End The Show So Soon?
theopinionatedindian11 January 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Red Oaks - Amazon Prime's hit dramedy is back with a third season & we sure were thrilled to view it.
The moment we were done with the first episode of the first season of the American show set in the 70's, we were bowled over. Every episode in the series is barely 22 mins long. While the first season dealt with the lead character - David Myers's (Craig Roberts) stint as a tennis coach for a summer in Red Oaks club. The second season spoke about the subsequent summer at the club. The season ended with David breaking up with his gf Skye & Skye's father losing his court battle.
The third season does not see David back to teaching tennis at the club. David is working in the city for ad film company. There is a new woman in David's life in the third season. His parents have moved on & are both seen to be exploring romantic opportunities with others. David's mother - Judy Myers (Jennifer Grey) is doing well as a real estate broker, whereas his father - Sam Myers (Richard Kind) has found a way to monetize his love for food. Sam has finally found love in a woman. Doug Getty (Paul Reiser) is in a minimum security prison for the rich. His daughter Skye (Alexandra Socha) does make an appearance in this season as well. A lot of time is devoted to Wheeler's (Oliver cooper) & Misty's (Alexandra Turshen) relationship. Nash(Ennis Esmer) - easily the most popular character on the show, has quite a few ups & down in the third season. He is not quite himself. He is not seen making sexist comments or flirt with women in this season.
With a run time of barely 22 mins, you end up wanting more. Every episode is entertaining & easy on your senses. Every character is well defined. Everybody in the cast does a good job. With Nash & wheeler becoming subdued versions of themselves, Doug has the best lines this season.
The ending does leave a lot to be desired. Despite the makers having made it clear that they won't be returning for a fourth season, there are several loose ends at the end of the show. Fans of the show will not get the closure they will have hoped for.
For those who are yet to see a single episode of this series, we highly recommend this series. And for those who have been following the series, do watch the show & bid goodbye to your favorite characters. We believe there was scope to extend the show by at least two seasons more!
1st season is awesome, goes downhill from there...
bhh-3195511 October 2021
1st season - 10/10 Really cool. Loved everything about this season.
2nd season - 6/10 Randomly starts giving screen time to the parents. Why? You'll figure it out, PC police. Ends up feeling extremely forced.
3rd season - 5/10 sprinkle a little bit more boring on the 2nd season with a dash more PC and you have season 3.
The end.
2nd season - 6/10 Randomly starts giving screen time to the parents. Why? You'll figure it out, PC police. Ends up feeling extremely forced.
3rd season - 5/10 sprinkle a little bit more boring on the 2nd season with a dash more PC and you have season 3.
The end.
It grew on me.
csarneson2 December 2015
The pilot was good but not great. It was a light-hearted reminder of the 80s coming of age movie comedies that I grew up with. I wasn't really compelled to watch the next episode but ultimately I did anyways just out of curiosity. As the episodes rolled by I enjoyed them more and more. Yes some of the characters are formulaic but the entire show works. I started actually caring what happens to them in future years. After finishing the 10th episode I actually am anxiously awaiting next season. There are quite a few ways the show could go and I can't wait to find out. Yes I have seen better shows but for this genre I think it was well above average and certainly worth watching.
Great and funny first season
beppe-2186720 January 2021
I expected more from Soderbergh
interlomas7730 August 2014
I wrote this review on the Amazon site but since this site is geared more for actual film critique I thought it would be a better fit here:
I'm not opposed to lugs, stoners, or horny dudes. In fact, I think the tennis pro was the funniest character in the pilot. But all the girls seemed alike. Whoever wrote this doesn't know anything about women, in fact no scenes exist with just the women characters--they're all seen through the eyes of the guys. That would be fine if this were Entourage (which I enjoyed for the first seasons) but isn't this supposed to be David's story? If he's the lead why don't "Girlfriend" (no idea what her name is, does it even matter?) and Wheeler get the same weight? The only time Girlfriend is without David is when she's with the sleazy Photographer (who was funny) on the green and once in a scene during which she doesn't even speak-- we're just watching her butt through the POV of that same Photographer dude. Okay.
The only non-attractive, non-sexually available woman was David's mom, and she took on a traditionally masculine role in leering at a woman. (Even the Asian Doctor was just hanging out looking seductive in David's dad's hospital room in one shot, as if waiting for him to get better so she could jump his bones. Doesn't she have rounds or something?)
There is ONE hot guy, who is a lifeguard and he is immediately dismissed as a cretin with barely the IQ needed to speak his very few lines. He's a cipher that only exists as an obstacle in Wheeler's pursuit of the object of his desire. The interesting guys--the 3D characters who populate the show--are normal looking and entertaining (if not altogether original). It would have been compelling to see the women get the same attention. Instead we get boobs.
I'm not opposed to lugs, stoners, or horny dudes. In fact, I think the tennis pro was the funniest character in the pilot. But all the girls seemed alike. Whoever wrote this doesn't know anything about women, in fact no scenes exist with just the women characters--they're all seen through the eyes of the guys. That would be fine if this were Entourage (which I enjoyed for the first seasons) but isn't this supposed to be David's story? If he's the lead why don't "Girlfriend" (no idea what her name is, does it even matter?) and Wheeler get the same weight? The only time Girlfriend is without David is when she's with the sleazy Photographer (who was funny) on the green and once in a scene during which she doesn't even speak-- we're just watching her butt through the POV of that same Photographer dude. Okay.
The only non-attractive, non-sexually available woman was David's mom, and she took on a traditionally masculine role in leering at a woman. (Even the Asian Doctor was just hanging out looking seductive in David's dad's hospital room in one shot, as if waiting for him to get better so she could jump his bones. Doesn't she have rounds or something?)
There is ONE hot guy, who is a lifeguard and he is immediately dismissed as a cretin with barely the IQ needed to speak his very few lines. He's a cipher that only exists as an obstacle in Wheeler's pursuit of the object of his desire. The interesting guys--the 3D characters who populate the show--are normal looking and entertaining (if not altogether original). It would have been compelling to see the women get the same attention. Instead we get boobs.
Great show, especially if...
Blumanowar9 June 2021
Great show, especially if you were in your teens and early 20's inTe 70's and early 80's. Spot on with the mood, the culture and the setting as well. A nice walk back in time. Raegardless of which side of the court your from its very good... and the characters are as well.. from the dreamy rich artsy girl to the beautiful girl to your nerdy friends.. it just hits home. Everybody is represented... as shallow as we, I mean they all were, it's fun.
'80 - Niceness - And actual time travel
yeah198025 October 2017
I started this with no expectations, actually all other Amazon Prime Video series did not get into me that much... OK, we are in the '80, so if you are born exactly in 1980 like me you are going to have a lot of revival moments, this is not sweating '80 like some other piece of TV streaming show (cough... stranger, cough... things, cough...), but there is a lot of quotes and reference everywhere. Then the whole plot is pivoting around niceness, and this is heart- warming, too many series are around just bad and evil characters, here you will find comfort after a hard work day. But the most important thing is: Time Travel. When I watch this show, time goes faster than ever! It is unbelievable how an episode slides smoothly to the end, while you think you are actually in the middle of it. This is actually the most sophisticated magic entertainment can do, and it must mean something if this happens.
Great Pilot Worth Your Time-Will Build to a Great Series
chippatrick30 August 2014
This pilot sets up the characters at ROCC for multiple plot twists around hook-ups, rivalries and achievements as David hits a crucial period of his life. Left with the classic parental pressure to get a 'good job' and 'succeed' the opening scene with his father illustrates nicely the conflict with the realistic view of life that Nash shows him. He is the hilarious, paunchy quasi tennis-pro running the program while fending off hot Jersey 'cougars,' the golf pro and fellow staff.
As David's mom, the hardly recognizable Jennifer Grey character has the potential to be absolutely hilarious! Also, Wheeler the valet is reason enough to watch and vote for this series on Amazon to keep going. As the stoner with a brain, set amongst the 'doofus' parking lot crowd, he will surely be front and center in this comedy going forward.
Not all pilots are tight, and some classic comedies started out with downright horrible ones (i.e. Seinfeld), but this one sets the stage for innumerable plot twists to support this season and beyond!
Check it out and vote for it to continue on Amazon Originals!
As David's mom, the hardly recognizable Jennifer Grey character has the potential to be absolutely hilarious! Also, Wheeler the valet is reason enough to watch and vote for this series on Amazon to keep going. As the stoner with a brain, set amongst the 'doofus' parking lot crowd, he will surely be front and center in this comedy going forward.
Not all pilots are tight, and some classic comedies started out with downright horrible ones (i.e. Seinfeld), but this one sets the stage for innumerable plot twists to support this season and beyond!
Check it out and vote for it to continue on Amazon Originals!
I KNEW THIS WOULD HAPPEN!!!
angeladevillier16 June 2019
I knew this would happen, I find a show I really like and BAM!!!!! They end it!!!! Why? They could have done a few more seasons of it. I loved all the characters in it. I am so disappointed and heart broken. I think I am swearing off shows and just stick to movies!!!
Entertaining enough for me.
deloudelouvain10 May 2022
Since a lot of good shows get canceled all the time without any valid reason I decided to only watch series when they're completely finished so that I wouldn't waste my time anymore with stories that get didn't get a proper ending. So I binge watched the three seasons of Red Oaks. It took me lesser than a week, that says enough about the quality I would say. It's not the greatest show though, but it surely was entertaining enough to keep my attention. It's all very lighthearted, with some good acting, with likeable and non so likeable characters but they all add to the story. It's not constantly funny, it wouldn't survive the annoying mandatory laughing tape we normally get with comedies, but every episodes has some good moments. Red Oaks is perfect to kill some time, easy to follow and never annoying.
One of my favorite shows!
jacobra-8305523 February 2019
Not terrible but not the best
wizards-0331821 July 2018
It's definitely a show to watch in the mean time while you're waiting for new episodes of your other favorite shows. It's not very funny, I like the characters but it seems that they didn't really know what type of show they were trying to be. The acting is just fine and the dialogue is ok but it's mainly the story. I didn't have too high of hopes for this show but I did expect it to be a bit better but again it's not the worst show out there.
10 10 10 10 Boy-chick!
bblick-6042226 May 2020
Whiny millennials wearing 80s stuff.
rockwoodjo29 January 2018
As an angry gen x'r that was THERE in the 80s, I won't waste your time with prose, so here goes:
1) There were no fat sidekicks in the 1980s. That formulaic curly haired fro wearing Jonah Hill type genius did not exist - a fat sidekick would be more John Candy. That is a millennial invention. A more believable Wheeler would be skinny, small, and with giant glasses and wear suits - and probably wouldn't bath. I recall there was this guy named Bill Gates...
2) It's obvious the budget went to High Castle, as the producers didn't really try to make the sets look or feel genuine 80s. Kudos to wardrobe, but come on guys. Everything, including door fixtures to lights weren't legit. Geez, at least paint the walls the right color. So many times I watched this, thinking it was taking place modern day, and the actors were just driving crappy old cars and wearing thrift store clothes. I kept forgetting it was in the 80s... maybe that was the point?
3) No video arcades? That's were you bought/traded your drugs. These teenage club working guys were so cool, idealistic, and confident, they didn't need to bother with the hottest technology of the time! Like I said, the 80s was applied to Red Oaks like cheap washable veneer.
4) Painfully obvious the worn out stories were meant to appeal to Millennials and their cry baby problems. Folks were hustling in the 80s and not being whiny about their dreams. It was eat, or be eaten. Russians and Nuclear war were around the corner. Status was king. No school = No future. You believed if you worked hard at anything, you would get there. That theme was touched upon - sort of. Regardless, I hope all the Boomers enjoyed watching this with their (still living at home) kids and felt some sort of connection.
5) Thank goodness the actors saved the day! I was surprised many of them did not phone it in, but instead gave it their best to make it work. Watch Red Oaks for the performances, and don't expect to find yourself immersed in the 80s. Go rent Dirty Dancing, Flashdance, or Footloose for the real experience.
Yeahh, that's right I gave it only a 6. Now you know why it ended at season 3.
1) There were no fat sidekicks in the 1980s. That formulaic curly haired fro wearing Jonah Hill type genius did not exist - a fat sidekick would be more John Candy. That is a millennial invention. A more believable Wheeler would be skinny, small, and with giant glasses and wear suits - and probably wouldn't bath. I recall there was this guy named Bill Gates...
2) It's obvious the budget went to High Castle, as the producers didn't really try to make the sets look or feel genuine 80s. Kudos to wardrobe, but come on guys. Everything, including door fixtures to lights weren't legit. Geez, at least paint the walls the right color. So many times I watched this, thinking it was taking place modern day, and the actors were just driving crappy old cars and wearing thrift store clothes. I kept forgetting it was in the 80s... maybe that was the point?
3) No video arcades? That's were you bought/traded your drugs. These teenage club working guys were so cool, idealistic, and confident, they didn't need to bother with the hottest technology of the time! Like I said, the 80s was applied to Red Oaks like cheap washable veneer.
4) Painfully obvious the worn out stories were meant to appeal to Millennials and their cry baby problems. Folks were hustling in the 80s and not being whiny about their dreams. It was eat, or be eaten. Russians and Nuclear war were around the corner. Status was king. No school = No future. You believed if you worked hard at anything, you would get there. That theme was touched upon - sort of. Regardless, I hope all the Boomers enjoyed watching this with their (still living at home) kids and felt some sort of connection.
5) Thank goodness the actors saved the day! I was surprised many of them did not phone it in, but instead gave it their best to make it work. Watch Red Oaks for the performances, and don't expect to find yourself immersed in the 80s. Go rent Dirty Dancing, Flashdance, or Footloose for the real experience.
Yeahh, that's right I gave it only a 6. Now you know why it ended at season 3.
Horrible Final Season
rich73548 October 2020
Great New Comedy
randolphpat28 August 2014
Warning: Spoilers
A fantastic show, original and funny in its own right, yet still pays homage to John Hughes and Caddy Shack fans. A usual Soderberg hits one out of the park. A little more populist than his great Section 8 work, Red Oaks follows the life of a character any Gen Xer can identify with. The dialog was snappy and clever, and after watching this one half hour pilot, I felt like I had been loaded with three hours of back-story.
In fact I have already grown to like these characters so much, as a viewer I am now able to sit back, relax and go pretty much anywhere the storyteller chooses to take me. A rare gift given to the audience of a sit-com.
Soderberg has broken my heart so many times before, presenting such wonderful material aired for just a season with an unanswered cliff- hanger.
I am fairly sure that this show is populist enough to keep its legs under it. I narrowly survived the cancellation of K-Street after one amazing season, so lets just green light five season now, shall we?
In fact I have already grown to like these characters so much, as a viewer I am now able to sit back, relax and go pretty much anywhere the storyteller chooses to take me. A rare gift given to the audience of a sit-com.
Soderberg has broken my heart so many times before, presenting such wonderful material aired for just a season with an unanswered cliff- hanger.
I am fairly sure that this show is populist enough to keep its legs under it. I narrowly survived the cancellation of K-Street after one amazing season, so lets just green light five season now, shall we?
See also
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