My Brilliant Friend

Watch My Brilliant Friend

  • TV-MA
  • 2018
  • 4 Seasons
  • 8.6  (19,070)

My Brilliant Friend is a captivating television drama series released by HBO. The show is based on a best-selling novel of the same name by Elena Ferrante, and it follows the story of the complex friendship between two young girls, Elena and Lila, who grew up in a poor neighborhood in Naples, Italy.

The series first aired in 2018 and is directed by Saverio Costanzo. It stars Valentina Acca as the young Elena, and Antonio Buonanno as the young Lila. The two young actresses do an excellent job of capturing the spirit of their characters and bringing the story to life. They are supported by an excellent cast that includes Gennaro Canonico, who plays the role of Enzo, and Imma Villa, who takes on the part of Imma, Lila's mother.

The story is set in the 1950s and follows Elena and Lila from childhood through to their teenage years. The two girls are very different, but they form a deep bond that sustains them through the challenges of growing up in a poverty-stricken community. The show explores themes of friendship, family, love, education, and social mobility, offering a unique insight into the complexities of life in post-war Italy.

The show is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the essence of Naples and the surrounding areas. The setting is an essential element of the story, and the director and cinematographer do an excellent job of creating a sense of place that is both authentic and immersive.

One of the standout features of My Brilliant Friend is the attention to detail that has been paid to the costumes, sets, and props. The series is set in the 1950s, and every element of the production has been designed to reflect the period accurately. The clothes that the characters wear, the furniture in their homes, and the objects they use all contribute to the authentic feel of the show.

The writing is also excellent, with a script that is both rich and nuanced. The dialogue is naturalistic and flows effortlessly, creating a sense of intimacy and authenticity that draws the viewer into the world of the characters. The show's themes are explored through the experiences of the two main characters, and the writing beautifully captures the complexities of their emotional lives.

Overall, My Brilliant Friend is an outstanding television series that is well worth watching. It is a beautiful and moving portrayal of friendship, life, and love, and it offers a unique insight into the struggles and challenges of growing up in post-war Italy. The show is tastefully produced with beautiful cinematography and stellar performances. It is definitely one of HBO's finest productions.

My Brilliant Friend is a series that ran for 4 seasons (34 episodes) between November 18, 2018 and on HBO

My Brilliant Friend
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Seasons
Restitution
10. Restitution
November 11, 2024
After learning that Pasquale and Nadia have been arrested, Lila informs Elena that Gennaro has run away. Though Lila is unphased, Elena tries to manage the crisis when she learns Elsa has gone with him as well. Many years later, Lila manages to surprise her friend yet again.
The Disappearance
9. The Disappearance
November 4, 2024
During Nino's long overdue visit to see Imma, a sudden and mysterious disappearance rocks the neighborhood. Though the Solaras help organize a search, Enzo remains suspicious of their involvement, while Lila becomes consumed by her own conspiracies. Later, Lila is driven further to the brink by her son's drug habit and another sudden loss.
The Investigation
8. The Investigation
October 28, 2024
After Elena discovers that Carmen has been pressured into suing her for slander, she and Lila decide to work together on an expose of the Solaras' affairs. Later, Elena learns that their article may not be enough to put the brothers behind bars.
The Return
7. The Return
October 21, 2024
Still reeling from her breakup, Elena reconnects with Antonio, who shares the full extent of Nino's betrayals. Later, Elena discovers that her newest book is a success, and tensions run high at Elisa and Marcello's wedding, as Elena learns the Solaras are ready to wage war against her for smearing their family name.
The Cheat
6. The Cheat
October 14, 2024
As Lila goes into labor, Alfonso confides in Elena while accompanying her to the clinic to visit Immacolata. After a tragic loss - and stunned by Nino's actions yet again - Elena decides to focus on herself and takes refuge with her daughters at Lila's, who finally reveals the truth about Nino.
The Fracture
5. The Fracture
October 7, 2024
After Elena's daughter Imma is born, Lila brings Elena's mother to see the baby, but the visit is unexpectedly cut short when Immacolata collapses. When Nino and Lila take Immacolata to the hospital, Elena finds herself plagued with jealousy. Later, Marcello causes a scene when he insists Immacolata be moved to a clinic.
The Earthquake
4. The Earthquake
September 30, 2024
Elena and Lila spend the day together in the neighborhood, where Elena sees how well-respected Lila has become...as well as the peril brought on by Marcello's drug running operation. Later, Lila and Elena desperately try to reunite with their families after a sudden earthquake forces residents to flee the city.
Compromises
3. Compromises
September 23, 2024
On a visit to the neighborhood for the first time in years, Elena attempts to make peace with Immacolata and learns that her mother has been unwell. Later, when Elena and Nino return from a trip to New York, she and Lila grow closer after revealing that they're both pregnant.
The Dispersion
2. The Dispersion
September 16, 2024
Unable to forgive Nino's betrayal, Elena takes Dede and Elsa to stay in Milan with Mariarosa and Franco. Following a tragic event, Elena gives in and moves into Nino's place in Via Petrarca.
The Separation
1. The Separation
September 9, 2024
After leaving Pietro, Elena enjoys the success of her novel and frequent escapades with Nino - but grows concerned about the time spent away from Dede and Elsa. Rebuffed by both Immacolata and Adele, Elena considers moving back to Naples. Though Elena has been avoiding her old friend, Lila corners her with a shocking revelation about Nino.
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Where to Watch My Brilliant Friend
My Brilliant Friend is available for streaming on the HBO website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch My Brilliant Friend on demand at Max, Amazon Prime, Amazon, Hulu, HBO NOW, Vudu, Microsoft Movies & TV, Google Play and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    November 18, 2018
  • IMDB Rating
    8.6  (19,070)
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