18/36
Narrative
Charles, a retired man, takes on a new lease on life when he becomes the mole in a nursing home investigation after answering a private investigator’s ad
After watching the Chilean documentary “The Mole Agent,” he says: “The documentary “The Mole Agent” is powerful because it makes people, regardless of age, race, or gender, feel something remarkably similar, and I describe that feeling in a very reduced way, like, “I need to call my mom.” In our show, we tried to do something similar in tone: basically, does our show contribute to that feeling of wanting to call our moms? The remake of El agente topo (2020) Ted Danson’s enduring charm shines through in A Man on the Inside, a heartwarming mix of comedy and mystery from The Good Place creator Michael Schur.
Tasked with solving a jewelry heist, Charles finds himself squirming through undercover work, eventually finding unexpected connections with the quirky residents around him
The series follows Charles (Danson), a lonely retired widower who turns his monotonous life upside down by taking on the role of private investigator in a retirement community. The show balances humor and whimsy with Danson’s impeccable timing and a cast of veteran actors like Sally Struthers and Stephen McKinley Henderson.
The series delights with its intricate whodunits, but its real treasure lies in the relationships that unfold
It’s a celebration of second chances and human connection, gently addressing themes like aging, grief, and reinvention without losing its comedic charm. Based on the Oscar-nominated documentary The Mole Agent, Schur’s latest venture reflects the philosophical warmth of his previous works while carving out its own identity.
Danson’s effortless portrayal of Charles anchors the series, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for a comedic exploration of later life
From Charles’s bond with his daughter Emily (Mary Elizabeth Ellis) to his reluctant friendship with his fellow residents, the characters are endearing and nuanced. While it lacks the surreal humor of The Good Place, A Man on the Inside is charming in its sincerity, offering both laughs and heartfelt moments.