First a definition, the title means "Star." In the context of ballet, 'étoile' is used to designate the leading dancer in a ballet company, often referred to as a "principal dancer" in English.
This new show just became available, streaming on Prime. My comments only refer to the first four episodes that my wife and I have watched. I will update my comments after watching more. I like much of the show, I also have some issues. Too much profanity from one character and the France part moves so fast that the small English subtitles are hard to read in real time.
The husband and wife Palladino team are responsible for two of my favorite series, "Gilmore Girls" and "Mrs. Maisel." As I reflect it isn't so much the actual stories that are entertaining, but the interesting characters and unique dialog. The main characters are always somewhat "off center" and quirky. People we would likely not often encounter in real life.
This new show, 'Etoile", is like that too. It starts with a meeting and negotiation, New York and Paris based ballet companies. Both are in some financial trouble and it is thought exchanging stars, select dancers and choreographers, would ignite interest for both companies.
All the main characters here are very "off center" and very quirky, but the actors are talented and mostly pull it off well.
Ballet is the focus but isn't really the main focus. The stories, as they seem to be headed, are the characters and their interactions.
Episode 4 was the best so far, it featured ballet performances in both Paris and New York with a good mix of real dancing and humor.
We look forward to the last 4 episodes,watching one per night.
