What happens when your life is hijacked by a better version?
In short: Imagine undergoing a treatment to improve your existence, only to realize you have been replaced. The Netflix series Living with Yourself explores this surreal premise through the eyes of a man who discovers his reality has been swapped with a clone's optimism.
Created by Timothy Greenberg, Living with Yourself premiered on Netflix on October 18, 2019. The narrative centers on Miles Elliot, a copywriter at Pool Branding who is deeply unhappy with his current life. Following a secret procedure meant to grant him an improved lifestyle, Miles learns the shocking fact that a more positive clone has taken his place. The production involved several key executive producers including Anthony Bregman and Jeff Stern. The story also features a receptionist named Kaylyn who works at the branding firm.
The series utilizes the high-concept premise of biological duplication to examine identity and personal fulfillment. Paul Rudd portrays both versions of Miles, delivering dual performances that contrast his original self with his more positive counterpart. The story expands into Miles's social circle, featuring his wife Kate (an interior architect), his younger half-sister Maia, and various colleagues at Pool Branding and the Top Happy Spa. Aisling Bea portrays Miles's wife in the series. Additionally, Ginger Gonzaga plays Kate's business partner, Meg. Rob Yang and James Seol appear as employees at a spa.
The production journey of the series reflects a shift in streaming dynamics. Originally greenlit by IFC in February 2017 with an expected 2018 premiere, the project moved to Netflix in August 2018. This transition resulted in a first season consisting of eight episodes. While critics on Rotten Tomatoes noted that the show sometimes struggled to sustain its surreal premise, it received generally favorable reviews—holding an 81% approval rating—largely due to the clever writing and Rudd's ability to navigate the complex dual roles. The first season was filmed on location throughout New York City during 2018. A weighted average score of 70/100 was awarded by Metacritic, derived from 26 different critics.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Living with Yourself
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