Billy & Billie

In the end, the very droll and compelling Billy & Billie is much more than just a case of sibling revelry.

But long-term? Seems like fans might grow frustrated if that’s the central theme. If Billy and Billie become "regular" relationship partners, the premise will need to expand. In the meantime, LaBute, Brody and Joyce have given us enough reason to keep watching.

Though the laughs may come through gritted teeth and a pained wince, they are there. It's an enjoyable series, at least for the three episodes available for review.

Nothing much happens in any given episode of Billy & Billie. Mr. LaBute is in no hurry. That’s sometimes frustrating; you’re left wanting a bit more pith, as well as more back story. But there are wry rewards in the exchanges between Billy and Billie.

Creator/writer/director Neil LaBute uses a theatrical style, heavy on dialogue. That works out well both for developing the characters and putting comedy into the situation.

There’s also such a chilliness to the interactions that while there’s some debate and uncertainty over whether the protagonists will wind up together, there’s less reason to care. That said, the show represents a credible twist on the familiar romantic-comedy notion of characters being drawn to each even when they shouldn’t be.