The Good Place

Afterlife comedy exploring ethics and self-improvement

Watch on Netflix
About The Good Place

Released: 2016

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 4 Seasons

Cast
Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper, Jameela Jamil, D'Arcy Carden, Manny Jacinto

About The Good Place

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About

The Good Place is a highly acclaimed television comedy series that first aired in 2016. The show, created by Michael Schur, follows the afterlife journey of Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell) as she mistakenly finds herself in "The Good Place" after her death. The Good Place is a paradise-like utopia designed for those who have lived exemplary lives. However, Eleanor quickly realizes that she has been mistaken for someone else with the same name who truly deserves to be there. She decides to hide her true identity and tries to become a better person in order to stay in the Good Place.

The Good Place explores deep philosophical and ethical questions while also providing plenty of humorous moments. The show delves into themes such as morality, redemption, and the nature of human relationships. It challenges the traditional notions of good and bad, making the viewers question what it truly means to be a good person.

Making / Production

The Good Place was created by Michael Schur, who is also known for creating other popular comedies such as Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. The show was produced by Universal Television and the production company Fremulon.

The Good Place received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling, complex characters, and clever humor. The show's writing team carefully crafted each episode, combining comedy with thought-provoking themes. The visual effects and set design also played a significant role in creating the unique and vibrant world of The Good Place.

Actors

  • Kristen Bell as Eleanor Shellstrop: Bell portrays the main character, a morally corrupt woman who mistakenly finds herself in "The Good Place." She shows great range in portraying the evolution of Eleanor as she tries to become a better person.
  • Ted Danson as Michael: Danson plays the charismatic and enigmatic architect of The Good Place. He brings a delightful mix of charm and mystery to the role.
  • William Jackson Harper as Chidi Anagonye: Harper portrays a moral philosophy professor tasked with teaching Eleanor ethics. He brings comedic timing and vulnerability to the role.
  • Jameela Jamil as Tahani Al-Jamil: Jamil plays a wealthy and self-absorbed socialite who is also in The Good Place. She adds humor and depth to the character's journey towards personal growth.
  • D'Arcy Carden as Janet: Carden portrays an artificial, all-knowing being in The Good Place. She provides comic relief and serves as a source of information for the characters.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The Good Place was heavily influenced by various philosophical theories, such as utilitarianism, existentialism, and ethical debates.
  • The show's creator, Michael Schur, sought advice from actual moral philosophers to ensure the accuracy and depth of the philosophical concepts explored in the series.
  • The Good Place has gained a cult following due to its clever writing, unexpected plot twists, and memorable characters.
  • The show features a unique and often surreal visual style, incorporating vibrant colors and whimsical set design to reflect the otherworldly nature of The Good Place.

Awards

The Good Place has received numerous accolades throughout its run. It has been nominated for several Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series. Ted Danson earned critical acclaim for his performance and received multiple award nominations for his portrayal of Michael. Kristen Bell was also praised for her role as Eleanor.

Quotes

  • "What matters isn't if people are good or bad. What matters is if they're trying to be better today than they were yesterday." - Eleanor Shellstrop
  • "Morality is just a construct created by humans to suppress our base urges in favor of cooperation." - Chidi Anagonye
  • "Janet, I need some advice about love. Do you have a minute? Or a few billion minutes?" - Michael

Music

The Good Place features an original score composed by David Schwartz, who also composed the music for Parks and Recreation. The score combines whimsical and uplifting melodies with more introspective and emotional pieces to match the show's themes.

Soundtrack

While The Good Place doesn't have an official soundtrack release, the show incorporates a variety of popular songs throughout its episodes. The music selection often reflects the characters' emotional journeys and adds a vibrant and catchy element to the show.