The bustling streets of New York City set the stage for Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino’s latest dramedy, “Étoile.” This series explores the world of professional ballet, focusing on the Metropolitan Ballet Theatre in New York City and Le Ballet National in Paris. The story follows executive director Jack McMillan and interim director Geneviève Lavigne as they navigate challenges such as declining ticket sales, a post-COVID dancer exodus, and a shrinking audience. To bring more visibility to both companies, Jack and Geneviève devise a bold plan to swap their top performers for a year.
In the opening scenes of “Étoile,” viewers are introduced to SuSu Li, a young dancer at the Metropolitan Ballet, and Jack and Geneviève, who are seen blowing off steam at a nightclub. Despite initial reservations, Jack eventually agrees to the talent exchange after convincing Geneviève to loan him her prized étoile, Cheyenne Toussant. As the dancers adjust to their new environments, Jack and Geneviève scramble to prepare for the upcoming dance season.
Known for their fast-paced dialogue and intricate storytelling in shows like “Gilmore Girls” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” the Palladinos infuse “Étoile” with a mix of English and French. However, the series is marred by unlikable characters like Jack, Geneviève, and Cheyenne, making it challenging for viewers to connect with the story. The disjointed structure of the eight episodes further adds to the series’ shortcomings, with the narrative feeling more like two separate acts than a cohesive season.
Despite its flaws, “Étoile” does have some standout characters like Mishi Duplessis and Tobias Bell, who offer glimpses of depth and complexity. Mishi, a ballerina grappling with her identity outside of dance, and Tobias, an eccentric choreographer with a unique personality, provide moments of genuine storytelling amidst the chaos of the series. However, these moments are overshadowed by the overall lack of coherence and character development.
As “Étoile” attempts to capture the beauty and elegance of ballet, it falls short in delivering a compelling story that resonates with viewers. While the Palladinos’ previous works have garnered acclaim, “Étoile” struggles to reach the same level of excellence. The series premieres on April 24 on Prime Video, inviting audiences to witness a world filled with passion, ambition, and the complexities of the ballet industry.