The concept for NBC’s new series Ordinary Joe isn’t new. We’ve seen it before on shows like Grey’s Anatomy and Glee, but only as episode-long depictions. However, in the series premiere of Ordinary Joe, we’re thrown into an entire show focused on the concept of “what if.”
Any pilot has the daunting task of properly setting its precedence and tone for the rest of the series and providing enough intrigue to audiences. This is where Ordinary Joe shines. The basic premise explores the main character Joe’s (James Wolk) three potential paths pursuing: a relationship with a new acquaintance Amy (Natalie Martinez), his best friend Jenny (Elizabeth Lail), or neither and choosing a career as a police officer.
The paths, although have separate outcomes, are very much intertwined offering a This Is Us feel. But that’s what I enjoyed the most.
Through voiceovers, we’re introduced to each character. Voiceovers are an interesting touch and seem like a choice made out of ease by the producers so viewers are quickly aware of Joe’s world. Additionally, the mini pauses in the editing seem out of place for a show like this. I would expect it in a comedy like Grown-ish, but in a drama, it’s a bit tacky.
James Wolk as Joe Kimbreau, Natalie Martinez as Amy Kindelán. (Photo by: Parrish Lewis/NBC)
Superstar Joe:
In Joe’s ideal life, he’s become the next Billy Joel and marries Amy who’s pregnant with twins. This chapter seems the most blissful. It’s later revealed that Amy and Joe have been trying for years to have a baby, and unfortunately, they lose the twins, prompting a major problem in their relationship.
At the 10-year college reunion, Joe’s reunited with Jenny. They engage in a long-overdue chat where she tells him that years ago she was pregnant with his son and ultimately gave him up for adoption.
James Wolk as Joe Kimbreau on Ordinary Joe. (Photo by: Parrish Lewis/NBC)
Nurse Joe:
The second path shares his life with Jenny. They have a young handicapable son, Chris, and because of their desperate need to fund his medical bills, they’ve settled into careers that make for an unhappy life. Jenny serves Joe divorce papers and gives him 40 days to prove to her that they should stay together.
As an intertwined fate, instead of directly protecting the congressman who’s attacked, he’s the nurse put on the case to save his life.
And as an added bonus, Eric is married to Amy. Both of whom are scheming to get Jenny and Joe’s marriage back on track.
Elizabeth Lail as Jenny Banks, James Wolk as Joe Kimbreau. (Photo by: Parrish Lewis/NBC)
NYPD Joe:
In the event that Joe chose his family and followed in his father’s footsteps as an NYPD officer, he’s a single and childless man only growing older, as his mother likes to remind him.
This allows him to make a delayed choice between Amy and Jenny. However, he’s still left to make the same decision as he was dealt 10 years prior.
James Wolk as Joe Kimbreau (Photo by: Parrish Lewis/NBC)
It’s obvious the scales are tipped in favor of Jenny. In every possible outcome, Jenny’s always a possibility. Their history is extensive and no matter what decision Joe makes, it doesn’t change the fact that Jenny remains pregnant with his son. Now whether or not he will be a part of his son’s life, that’s the biggest question.
What did you think of the premiere? Don’t forget to leave your comments down below!
Stray Musings:
- Despite the possible divergent paths beginning at the graduation ceremony, there are still endless choices within each storyline for things to go awry proving that life is dependent on much more than a singular decision.
- I know James Wolk is only 36, but why does he look so old?! It’s almost laughable how unrealistic he looks as a graduating undergrad.
- The reality of COVID is nowhere near the end, but Chris’s mention of COVID was extremely unexpected.
- Joe’s reaction toward Jenny putting up their son for adoption was unappreciated. The entitlement he displays is offputting and his disregard for the laws, because he’s a superstar, is a no for me.
Rating: 4/5
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