Un volto, due destini - I Know This Much Is True

Really tough to come to any conclusions after only one episode, but it seems like it's staying true to the book. For anyone that has not read it, it is an absolute epic tale. I hope this series does the book justice...it's one of the greatest books I've ever read.

I have worked in a Max. Security Forensic mental hospital for 11years now... what it's touching and wonderfully honest about this series is our unflinching look into the lives of the immediate family members of our patients. I have witnessed over-involved family, others whom completely disown their fam. Member, and every shade in between... This series touches my heart and soul as a clinician for the severely mentally ill. Thank you! Cast, crew, and writers/producers.

Exquisite film drama in series form. Engaging, with depth that doesn't ever stall the forward motion. We enjoy supporting actors like Huebel, Hahn, O'Donnell and Lewis perfectly cast in roles that seem written for them. The dialogue is masterful, swallowing up actors we know so well from so many other appearances, as if they've only ever been just these characters. Careful, attentive direction and photography make each scene an essential moment. And then Ruffalo's all-in performance. Another example of the enormous quality-raising effect of streaming services on the series form.

I understand that some people don't like depressing films and TV shows, but that does not mean that you can bring down the ratings of a good show just because you don't want to feel sad during a pandemic.

Now, my thoughts on the show are very good. The acting from Mark Ruffalo is superb as he plays 2 characters and every other actor gives their all as well. The directing is also really great and while the camera work can be disorienting at times, it is overall done very well. This show is VERY depressing, I don't have a problem with that. I think people need to focus less on what exactly happens to these characters and more on how it affects them. This show tackles difficult subjects like grief and disabilities and it does so very well. If you are a fan of Mark Ruffalo and really well made incredibly acted dramas, this show is for you.

Yes, the story is harsh and cold. No, there are hardly any positive notes in the show. Yes, the acting is beyond top shelf. Yes, the music and score is amplifying the depressing story. No, there almost is no redeeming quality.

But, such is life! Life isn't always perfect and happy and rainbows and puppies. Here we see the results of multiple generations dealing with trauma upon trauma, real people trying to move one step forward in life only to find they'll have to take two steps back. This is life, bitter and hard, but also unrelenting and strong.

This is TV at its very best. Sure, it isn't for everybody, but you can't make reality go away by pretending it doesn't exist.

Mark Ruffalo, Rob Huebel, Rosie O'Donnell, Kathryn Hahn are phenomenal. The writing and directing by Derek Cianfrance is outstanding.