About Togetherness

'Togetherness' is an American comedy-drama television series that aired on HBO from January 2015 to April 2016. The story revolves around four characters in their late 30s living under the same roof and trying to keep their relationships, dreams, and a growing sense of dissatisfaction together. These characters include Brett and Michelle Pierson, married but struggling, and their eccentric friends/contributors Alex and Tina, whose presence tightens the balance.

Making / Production

'Togetherness' was created by brothers Jay and Mark Duplass, who also served as executive producers, writers, and directors. The show incorporates elements of their signature 'mumblecore' filmmaking style: naturalistic dialogue, complex characters, and nuanced relationships.

Actors

• Mark Duplass (as Brett Pierson): Mark brilliantly portrayed Brett, a strait-laced sound designer struggling with typical mid-life crisis matters and his failing marriage with Michelle.
• Melanie Lynskey (as Michelle Pierson): Melanie played Michelle, a stay-at-home mom grappling with discontentment and seeking purpose outside her marriage.
• Steve Zissis (as Alex Pappas): Steve humorously portrayed Alex, Brett's best friend and a struggling actor trying to make it in Hollywood.
• Amanda Peet (as Tina Morris): Amanda convincingly played Tina, Michelle's sister and another part of the four-way friendship/relationship dynamic, willing to find lasting love.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series was produced entirely in Los Angeles.
• 'Togetherness' was cancelled by HBO after two seasons, to the disappointment of its devoted fan base.
• Mark Duplass and Steve Zissis have been best friends in real life since they were childhood, much like their characters in the series.

Quotes

• "You're so dramatic. You should be an actress." - Tina to Alex.
• "Marriage is like a phone call in the night: first there's the ring, and then you wake up." - Brett to Michelle.
• "A failed actor in Hollywood isn't a character; it's every guy at Starbucks." - Alex.

Music, Soundtrack

• The plot frequently centres around music, as Brett is a professional sound designer.
• One of the pivotal scenes in the series involves the four main characters dancing to the hit song 'Can't Do Without You' by Caribou.
• The original score for the series was composed by Michael Andrews.