Beef was the standout hit for Netflix at the 2024 Golden Globes. Now, let's take a look at the series, its cast, and whether it's worth watching. In 2023, Netflix brought out a variety of new content, including Shawn Ryan's political thriller The Night Agent and the charming family adventure film Chupa.
Beef was another hit, a binge-worthy journey that depicts the story of two strangers who allow their grievances to dominate them in the face of intense familial expectations. This show won the Best Television Limited Series at the recent Golden Globe Awards, making it a must-watch. Here's everything you need to know about Beef.
What is Beef about?
Beef is a comedic drama series spanning 10 episodes. While it kicks off with a road rage incident, there's a lot more happening behind the scenes as the story unveils the characters and their interconnected relationships.
Watch the trailer now:
The official summary tells the story of "Beef," which follows the aftermath of a road rage incident between two strangers. Danny Cho, a struggling contractor with a grudge, clashes with Amy Lau, a successful entrepreneur with an idyllic life.
Their escalating conflict disrupts their lives and connections in this darkly comedic and profoundly touching series. When discussing the script writing process, showrunner Lee Sung Jin described how Beef became "unpredictable yet deeply personal in unexpected ways."
"After bringing in a talented team for the writer's room, our focus shifted from simply writing scripts to gathering personal stories, anecdotes, and observations about people in our lives," he explained. Jin later emphasized that the presence of Asian Americans in the room contributed to the authenticity and specificity of the content.
Beef cast: Who’s in it?
Netflix’s Beef cast includes:
Steven Yeun as Danny Cho
Ali Wong as Amy Lau
Joseph Lee as George Nakai
Young Mazino as Paul Cho
David Choe as Isaac Cho
Patti Yasutake as Fumi Nakai
Maria Bello as Jordan Forster
Ashley Park as Naomi Forster
Justin H. Min as Edwin
Mia Serafino as Mia
Remy Holt as June
Andrew Santino as Michael
Rek Lee plays the role of Bobby. When asked about what attracted her to the character Amy, Ali Wong discussed the intense emotions of rage that the characters feel, particularly Amy, whose outwardly perfect life hides the turmoil within. She emphasized the idea that one can never truly know what someone else is going through in their personal life.
NetflixSteven Yeun takes on the role of struggling contractor Danny Cho
When asked about his character, Steven Yeun explained that portraying the main character was "an examination of some of the instincts we all experience when we are constantly afraid, or living with a perpetual feeling of uncertainty."
He added: “That type of consciousness was really hilarious, painful, beautiful, and cringey to explore.”
You can read more about the cast of Netflix’s Beef here.
Is Beef worth watching?
Beef has earned positive reviews, with the Netflix show earning a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer and 87% on the Audience Score.
The New York Times described it as "one of the most invigorating, surprising, and insightful debuts of the past year due to its personal and culturally specific examination of anger."
Vulture emphasized the "paradoxically pleasurable sensation of anxiety and satisfaction," stating that "Yeun and Wong's vibrating, hostile chemistry creates engaging feel-bad TV that critiques the idea of inner peace."
Beef is now available for streaming on Netflix. If you want to learn more about the show’s cast, whether it’s based on a true story, or if a Season 2 is in the works, check out our other Netflix hubs below. Will there be Firefly Lane Season 3? | Monster Season 2 | Will there be Ginny and Georgia Season 3? | Stranger Things Season 5 | Florida Man Season 2 | Obsession Season 2 | The Sandman Season 2 | The Lincoln Lawyer Season 3 | Heartstopper Season 3 | Virgin River Season 6 | Lift | The Manny Season 2
Editor's P/S
As an enthusiastic fan of the Netflix series 'Beef', I am thrilled that it has received the recognition it deserves at the 2024 Golden Globes. The show's unique blend of comedy and drama, coupled with its exploration of complex human emotions, makes it a truly captivating watch. The cast, led by the brilliant Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, delivers outstanding performances that bring depth and authenticity to their characters.
The writing is sharp, witty, and thought-provoking, delving into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of letting anger and resentment fester. Each episode leaves you wanting more, as the story unfolds in unexpected ways, keeping you on the edge of your seat. 'Beef' is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates quality storytelling and nuanced character development. It is a show that will stay with you long after the credits roll.