More than any other streaming service, Apple TV+ is the one most focused on producing original programming. This is mostly out of necessity as Apple doesn’t have a catalog to pull from like Warner Bros. or Disney. Regardless of the why, it’s nice to have a streaming option willing to take swings even if it they don’t always land. Government Cheese is even more of a swing than usual.
Created by prolific music video director Paul Hunter and Ayesha Carr, the series is full of style and plenty of whimsy. Set in Los Angeles circa 1969, Government Cheese follows Hampton Chambers (David Oyelowo) a thief recently released from prison. Hampton is ready for a second chance and his invention, a self-sharpening power drill, is the key to it. However, his fractious personal life and a favor owed to the local crime family complicate things. This is a show with a lot of plot, which proves to be a challenge for its 30-40 minute runtime.
The series moves at a quick pace, which works for the quirky tone. Government Cheese has a vibe that I can only describe as The Coen brothers meet Wes Anderson. The show has a penchant for black comedy that is juxtaposed by the vibrant color palette. There’s also a tendency for the narrative to drift into dream sequences, a favorite device of the Coens. It’s a delight to watch even if the program lacks the charm of its influences. There’s a certain remove to the series that is often lobbied at Anderson’s work. All the zaniness obscures the emotions we’re supposed to feel.
Like those films, the show attempts to glide past those criticisms with the help of a great cast. Oyelowo is outstanding as Hampton, a man of seemingly endless determination. He makes the almost delusional levels of self-confidence Hampton displays endearing while also showing the cracks in his facade. Simone Missick plays his wife, Astoria, who is less than enthused to have him back at home. The series takes its time showing the devolution of their relationship, but Missick makes it clear with every weary smile and behind-the-back eye roll. She’s seen this all before.
Their two sons fall a little too easily into archetypes. Einstein is the academic one with a bright future, while Harrison is the counter-culture rebel. The real scene-stealer is Bokeem Woodbine as Bootsy. He is the constant devil on Hampton’s shoulder, tempting him back to the world of crime. We don’t get a lot of him, but Woodbine makes a meal out of every line and expression.
With a great cast and energetic direction courtesy of Hunter, Government Cheese has a lot going for it. The offbeat tone keeps you at arm’s length, but it’s hard not to be won over by the show’s commitment to its characters. This is the type of program that I can only really envision on a platform like Apple TV+. The creators can do exactly what they want and it shows for good and bad. That’s all I really want from TV.
Government Cheese is currently streaming on Apple TV+. New episodes release on Wednesdays.