It’s a shame “Mixology” only lasted one season. The comedy debuted on ABC February 26, 2014. While lasting only thirteen episodes the arc of the season does come to completion. And it is a perfect standalone binge watch.
As the opening narration describes, “Mixology” is the story of ten strangers navigating one night at a Manhattan bar. Playing out like a reality show, the ensemble cast does a fantastic job of portraying an eclectic mix of singles in a seemingly futile attempt at finding love.
The characters are all well-acted. Even those that we don’t like we still find likeable. The banter is real. The viewer can doubtless envision themselves in any of the random scenarios that occur on this single night out. These are all people we know or have known at one time or another. They may even be people we are, or at one point were. The fun is relating to the characters in a bevy of ways. Over the course of thirteen episodes, each character is highlighted at one point in time or another. Taut flashbacks are used to craft a backstory, explaining in an abridged fashion the motives behind their specific madness.
The focus is on ten people, all at the bar for various reasons. Bruce and Cal are with Tom; a recently dumped friend. Jessica is meeting Ron for the first time after connecting with him on a dating website; with her fashion designing friend Fab offering endless critiques. Maya is encouraging her quirky friend Liv to reconsider a pending marriage. Dominic and Kacey are the flirtatious bartenders charged with suppling the most potent of potables to the patrons.
All of the individuals and their stories are humorous. As the night goes on, characters will intersect with each other at various points. It makes the massive Manhattan bar seem like Cheers. Andrew Santino is hysterical as Bruce, the self-proclaimed expert on hooking up with women. Bruce plays perfectly off Cal (Craig Frank) as he attempts to get Tom (Blake Lee) back into the dating market, offering pearls of wisdom like “the higher the heels the looser she feels.” Kate Simses is equally funny as Liv. Liv is an uptight sort who doesn’t get out much.
Watching her character react to the bar, and achieve personal growth as the night rolls along is a treat. Listing all the stars would be pointless. Each one does a masterful job at being funny, sincere, and emotional as the situation calls for. I changed my mind a million times as to which character is my favorite and you probably will too.
“Mixology” is a show that may be off your radar. I hate that it didn’t achieve the success to continue, but in a way I’m glad it didn’t. As a lone season, there is no chance to jump the shark or get stale. It will always remain an enigma. At twenty-plus minutes an episode, it can easily be binged in a weekend (or single night if you dare). It premiered eight years ago today. Show it the love it deserves.
“Mixology” is available on Amazon Prime.
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