Netflix fans told to watch underrated 'classic' that inspired new Tina Fey series

Netflix fans have been urged to seek out an underrated 'classic' that is the inspiration for Tina Fey's new series on the platform.

The Four Seasons, co-created by Fey and added in full to the streamer today (May 1), actually originates from a 1981 comedy film. The film was written, directed and starred MASH actor Alan Alda and shares the same premise as the new Netflix show.

When Netflix first dropped the trailer for the revamped series, many fans noted its resemblance to White Lotus but with more humour and less mortality. Consequently, it's suggested that fans of the HBO series should also explore the original.

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While the 2025 version has incorporated some contemporary updates to characters and storyline alterations, those who prefer to approach the show without any preconceptions or spoilers might want to avoid the details of the film's plot.

The synopsis for the 1981 movie reveals the story follows Jack (Alda) and Kate who traditionally holiday with their friends each new season. Old friend Nick shocks everyone when he shows up not with his wife, Anne, but with his new girlfriend, the significantly younger Ginny, reports .

Despite the rest of the group being close friends with Anne, they are compelled to reconcile with this unexpected turn of events. Spanning four different trips across four different seasons, the audience is invited to see if the group can accept Nick's decision and embrace Ginny as one of their own.

Alda stars alongside a stellar lineup of the era's talent, including Carol Burnett, Rita Moreno, Jack Weston, Sandy Dennis, Bess Armstrong, and Len Cariou, who later became known for his role as Henry Reagan in the popular crime series Blue Bloods.

As of now, the film isn't available on any streaming subscription services like its more recent remake. However, fans can rent it for as little as £3.49 from digital platforms such as Amazon Video, Sky Store, Apple TV.

Yet, there's still plenty of incentive to track down this gem, especially since it boasts a solid 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is highly regarded by many movie buffs.

One fan expressed online: "Extremely underrated movie. Fabulous cast and storyline." Another chimed in: "This movie is a classic, it describes everything on how I feel about love! A must see movie."

Another viewer shared: "It is a lot of fun at times, but also shows how time and changing relationships can affect bonds. The ensemble cast is charming, and there are genuinely heartfelt moments that make for a cozy and comforting watch."

The Four Seasons (2025) is streaming on Netflix, The Four Seasons (1981) is available to rent on Amazon Video, Apple TV and Sky Store.