A Raw and Honest Look at Faith, Family, and Recovery
Amazon Prime Video is continuing its successful streak in faith-based storytelling. Following the massive impact of The Chosen and House of David, the platform is introducing a new, nuanced family drama titled “It’s Not Like That,” created by Ian Deitchman and Kristin Robinson. Unlike traditional religious programming, this series avoids the trap of propaganda, offering instead a thoughtful exploration of love, friendship, and the messy realities of life’s biggest transitions.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Atlanta, the story unfolds during the high-stress period of the first day of school. However, for the characters involved, the academic year is the least of their worries.
Scott Foley as the Emotional Anchor
At the heart of the series is Scott Foley, who delivers a powerhouse performance as Pastor Malcolm of Grace Community Church. Foley is perfectly cast as the steady, calm voice of reason for his three children—teenage Flora, middle-schooler Penelope, and the young culinary prodigy Justin.
The emotional weight of the show stems from a shared tragedy: Malcolm is a widower, and his children are struggling to navigate a “new normal” after the death of their mother, Jenny. The chemistry between Scott Foley and Erinn Hayes (who plays Lori, Jenny’s best friend and a fellow grieving parent) provides the series with its most compelling romantic tension. As they lean on each other for support and dating advice, their bond deepens into something more, adding a layer of complexity given that Lori’s ex-husband, David, remains a close friend of Malcolm.
Beyond the Pulpit: Real-World Struggles
What sets “It’s Not Like That” apart is its refusal to shy away from the darker, more complicated aspects of adolescence and adulthood. The show treats its younger characters with maturity, exploring themes such as:
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- Teenage Grief: Flora’s struggle with the expectations of being a “preacher’s kid” while mourning her mother.
- Bullying: Justin’s secret battle at school and his desire to protect his father from further pain.
- Destructive Coping: Merritt’s anger and volatility following his parents’ divorce.
- Fractured Friendships: The evolving and often tense relationship between Penelope and Casey.
A Refreshing Perspective on Spirituality
One of the most praised elements of the series is its approach to Christianity. Rather than being preachy, the faith elements serve as a guiding light for the characters rather than a tool for exclusion. The show embraces diversity and reality, featuring discussions on alcohol recovery, sex, and interfaith friendships—including a close bond between Malcolm and an imam.
By allowing characters like Flora to pilot their own relationship with God without pressure, the show mirrors real-life spiritual journeys, making it relatable to believers and non-believers alike. It is a far cry from the sanitized version of family life seen in shows like 7th Heaven, providing a gritty yet hopeful alternative.
How to Watch
If you’re looking for a series that balances emotional depth with authentic performances, Scott Foley’s latest project is a top contender. All eight episodes of “It’s Not Like That” are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video starting May 15.
For more details on the cast and production, you can check the official IMDb page for the series.
