Netflix fans have been urged to stream a ‘cozy and comforting’ movie that features a Blue Bloods star and is the basis of a new series.

The Four Seasons, co-created by Tina Fey and available in full on Netflix from today (May 1), is actually based on a 1981 comedy film.

This title was written, directed and starred MASH star Alan Alda and shares the same premise as the new Netflix show.

When the trailer for the updated series was first released by Netflix, many fans noted its similarity to White Lotus but with more humour and less death.

Consequently, it’s suggested that fans of the HBO series should also explore the original.

The 2025 version has introduced some contemporary updates to characters and storyline changes. However, those who prefer to approach the show without any preconceptions or spoilers might want to avoid the details of the film’s plot.

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

While the rest of the group had also become close friends with Anne, they are compelled to deal with this unexpected development. Spanning four different trips over four different seasons, the audience is invited to see if the group can accept Nick’s decision and welcome Ginny into their circle.

Alan Alda stars alongside an all-star cast in this classic romantic comedy, featuring esteemed talent like Carol Burnett, Rita Moreno, and Sandy Dennis, as well as familiar faces Jack Weston, Bess Armstrong, and Len Cariou, who would later become known for his role as Henry Reagan in the hit series Blue Bloods.

Although the film isn’t currently available to stream through subscription services, it can be rented for a modest £3.49 on various digital platforms like Amazon Video, Sky Store, and Apple TV.

This hidden gem boasts a respectable 76% Rotten Tomatoes rating and is still widely admired by film enthusiasts. One reviewer raved: “Extremely underrated movie. Fabulous cast and storyline.”

Another fan gushed: “This movie is a classic, it describes everything on how I feel about love! A must see movie.”

A third reviewer praised the film’s balance of humor and poignancy, saying: “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.