Scott Foley Leads Cast of 'It’s Not Like That' on Prime Video
Scott Foley, known for his roles in popular series like 'Scandal' and 'The Bold and the Beautiful,' is taking on a new role in the heartfelt drama It’s Not Like That. The series, set to premiere on the Wonder Project on Prime Video, explores themes of loss, friendship, and the challenges of finding joy after tragedy.
A Story Born from Real Life Experiences
Creators Ian Deitchman and Kristin Robinson were inspired by real-life events to craft the narrative of It’s Not Like That. The show follows Pastor Malcolm Jeffries, played by Foley, and Lori Soto, portrayed by Erinn Hayes, as they navigate the aftermath of shared loss. Malcolm’s wife, who is also Lori’s best friend, passes away, leaving both characters to cope with their grief and personal struggles.
The Inspiration Behind the Story
In an interview with TVBrittanyF.com, Deitchman revealed that the idea for the series came from their own experiences. "This story kind of comes from real life—from our own lives, but also from the lives of close friends and family," he said. "We had a mutual college friend who passed suddenly from cancer and left a family behind." This personal connection adds depth and authenticity to the series.
Themes of Second Chances and New Beginnings
It’s Not Like That delves into the emotional rollercoaster of life after loss. Lori, going through a divorce, finds solace in Malcolm, and together, they help each other navigate their new realities. The series is a blend of humor and heartache, offering a tragi-comic perspective on life’s ups and downs.
The Influence of 'Ordinary Joe'
The creators noted that their work on the NBC drama Ordinary Joe influenced the tone and direction of It’s Not Like That. Kristin Robinson explained, "Everybody, as we go through life, are faced with choices that take us in different directions. There’s certainly things [like] that here, especially with Malcolm and Lori." This focus on character-driven storytelling and the consequences of life choices is a hallmark of both series.
A Learning Experience for the Creators
Deitchman added that working on Ordinary Joe was a valuable learning experience. "Garrett [Lerner, creator of Ordinary Joe] and his creative partner Russell Friend, they really let us be involved in every aspect of that show—get our hands dirty in post, in production," he said. This experience helped shape the creative process for It’s Not Like That.
Family-Centric Storytelling
Both Deitchman and Robinson have a penchant for family-centric storytelling, as seen in their previous work on series like Parenthood. Robinson emphasized their love for writing stories with family at the core, noting, "There is an inherent messiness to those kinds of relationships that is appealing, because there are lots of levels to that." This approach brings a realistic and relatable quality to the series.
Character Development and Emotional Depth
One of the standout features of It’s Not Like That is its well-rounded characters. Each character, from Malcolm and Lori to their families, is fully fleshed out, allowing viewers to connect with their journeys. The series explores how these characters’ choices impact not only themselves but also those around them.
The Cast and Production
Aside from Foley and Hayes, the series features a talented ensemble cast that brings the story to life. The production, under the Wonder Project banner on Prime Video, promises high-quality storytelling that resonates with viewers.
A Dream Collaboration
For Foley, working on It’s Not Like That is a chance to delve into a character-driven role that explores complex emotions. The collaboration with creators like Deitchman and Robinson, who share a passion for meaningful storytelling, makes the project even more rewarding.
Conclusion
It’s Not Like That is poised to be a standout series on Prime Video, offering a heartfelt look at the human experience. With Scott Foley at the helm and a compelling narrative, the show is a must-watch for fans of emotional, character-driven dramas. Prepare to be moved by the story of Malcolm, Lori, and their journey toward healing and new beginnings.
