One Day (Netflix)

Emma and Dexter meet on July 15, 1988, the day they graduate university in Edinburgh. They seemingly have little in common; she is a down to earth English student from Leeds while he is a playboy without a plan from the moneyed south. But the unlikely pair spend a day together and connect, promising to catch up after the summer. Based on a David Nicholls book, the story checks in them on the same day each year following their very different paths in life. Aspiring writer Em slogs her guts out for little reward, while golden child Dex falls on his feet in vapid TV shows, yet their connection persists. More than a decade later their fortunes have reversed, Em coming into her own while Dex has lost his way. Will the timing ever be right for them? This unconventional RomCom asks some valid questions about the nature of love and friendship. Do opposites really attract? Can men and women truly form platonic friendships? The short and sweet episodes are funny and poignant, with Leo Woodall and Ambika Mod embodying the lead roles with fantastic chemistry. The sound supporting cast includes Essie Davis makes a nice cameo as Dex’s mum. The music and the fashion provide a lot of nostalgic fun for those who were there at the time. It’s a bittersweet exploration of the promises and pitfalls of a path not taken.