Critic Reviews

Love on the Spectrum takes these adults well past their comfort zones, testing their emotions and their interpersonal skills in dating situations that I found myself relating to way more than I expected. ... It’s not as moody or emotionally wrought as scripted shows like Netflix’s Atypical. But its quest is one that feels so relevant right now.

This five-part newcomer feels more of its moment, taking the time to explore the lives of its participants in greater depth, which results in a programme filled with joy, warmth and insight.

It’s easy to fall for it, even if you find some of its unscripted storytelling techniques less than trustworthy. The subjects’ search for love and romantic companionship, as they navigate dating experiences that, for some, are their very first, don’t need much editorial flourish. The people on screen are so naturally charismatic and compelling.

More than anything, Love on the Spectrum exhibits empathy toward the featured players without condescending toward them, and quickly bridges any cultural barriers in a broadly universal manner. In the often-cynical world of TV dating, that combination provokes pretty strong feelings of like at first sight.

This is a fun, romantic look at life on the spectrum that will hopefully shatter some stereotypes.