DTF St. Louis: A Tender Exploration of Male Friendships

The limited series *DTF St. Louis*, created by Steve Conrad, presents a nuanced portrayal of male friendships against the backdrop of a suburban sex murder mystery. The narrative follows Clark (Jason Bateman), a local news weatherman, who befriends Floyd (David Harbour), an ASL interpreter, while becoming romantically involved with Floyd's wife, Carol (Linda Cardellini). As the plot unfolds, the series delves into themes of loneliness, vulnerability, and the complexities of modern masculinity.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

Clark and Floyd are depicted as men grappling with their emotional lives. Both are portrayed as loving husbands who struggle to connect with their spouses, particularly in a sexual context. Their friendship becomes a lifeline amid the pressures of ordinary life, characterized by financial struggles and familial responsibilities. Carol's adolescent son, Richard (Arlan Ruf), who has borderline personality disorder, adds another layer of complexity to their lives, as both she and Floyd's happiness is contingent on his well-being.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

The series employs humor and poignant moments to explore the characters' vulnerabilities. For instance, Clark and Floyd engage in activities like braiding hair and sharing intimate conversations, which challenge traditional notions of masculinity. The writing is layered and employs a fractured timeline, allowing viewers to revisit scenes with new perspectives, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

*DTF St. Louis* arrives at a time when portrayals of masculinity in media are often polarized. On one side, shows like those created by Taylor Sheridan reinforce traditional gender roles, while on the other, Bill Lawrence's works promote an overly idealistic view of kindness. In contrast, Clark and Floyd represent relatable figures striving to navigate their identities as "good men" in a culture that often defines masculinity differently.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

Critics have noted the series' ability to resonate deeply with viewers, highlighting its emotional authenticity. The characters' relief in finding trust and connection with one another is palpable, as they frequently address each other with casual familiarity, reinforcing their bond.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

Critics have praised *DTF St. Louis* for its intelligent writing and emotional resonance. The series has been described as a significant contribution to the conversation about male friendships and vulnerability, standing out in a landscape dominated by more traditional portrayals of masculinity.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

• “They’re both trying hard to be “good men” in a culture that defines manliness quite differently than they do.” — Critic, *The Globe and Mail*

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

As *DTF St. Louis* approaches the conclusion of its seven-episode run, discussions surrounding its themes of male friendship and vulnerability are expected to continue, potentially influencing future portrayals of masculinity in television. The series has sparked conversations about the importance of emotional honesty among men, suggesting a shift in how male relationships are depicted in media.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)