The Afterparty Christian Review

There’s something about a good murder mystery that hooks you. Maybe it’s the whodunit tension, the colorful characters, or the sheer delight of trying to outsmart the story before the final reveal. The Afterparty on Apple TV+ checks all those boxes and then some, adding humor and style in ways that make it stand out. But for those of us viewing through a Christian lens, the question isn’t just whether it’s entertaining—it’s whether it’s worth our time and attention in the grand scheme of things.

First Impressions: What The Afterparty Brings to the Table

Let’s start with the basics. The Afterparty is a smart, funny, and highly creative series that doesn’t just tell a story; it plays with the very structure of storytelling. Each episode unfolds from a different character’s perspective, switching up genres—from musicals to action films to noir—to reflect their personality and worldview. This approach isn’t just clever; it’s a masterclass in how far you can stretch a concept without losing the audience. Lord and Miller, the minds behind The Lego Movie and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, bring their trademark inventiveness to the table, and it shows.

Now, if you’re wondering whether all this stylistic flair overshadows the actual story, the answer is no. At its core, The Afterparty is about solving a murder that happens at a high school reunion. There’s a groundedness to this premise that keeps the show from feeling too gimmicky. And yet, it’s not afraid to take risks. The result? A show that’s both deeply funny and oddly poignant, reminding us that even the most ridiculous moments can hold a grain of truth.

Creativity as a Reflection of God’s Image

Christians often talk about being made in the image of God, and one way that manifests is through creativity. Watching The Afterparty, you can’t help but marvel at the sheer ingenuity behind it. Every episode feels like a mini-masterpiece, carefully crafted to keep you entertained and engaged. This isn’t throwaway content; it’s art.

In a world where so much media feels churned out, designed to hit algorithms rather than hearts, it’s refreshing to see something made with care. Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” While I’m pretty sure the creators weren’t consciously working for the Lord here, their dedication to excellence still reflects a God-given ability to create and innovate. And that’s something worth celebrating.

The Humor Factor: Laughter as Medicine

Let’s talk about the humor for a second, because it’s one of the show’s biggest selling points. The comedy in The Afterparty is sharp, quirky, and often laugh-out-loud funny. Whether it’s a perfectly timed physical gag or a character’s awkward attempt at redemption, there’s a levity to the show that feels almost therapeutic.

Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “A joyful heart is good medicine.” In that sense, The Afterparty delivers. It’s not preachy or heavy-handed; it’s just fun. And while fun isn’t the ultimate goal of life, it’s still a gift from God. Shows like this remind us to take a step back, laugh a little, and enjoy the creativity and humor He’s woven into our world.

The Not-So-Great Stuff: What to Watch Out For

Of course, no show is perfect, and The Afterparty has its flaws. For one, it’s not exactly a bastion of Christian values. There’s some language, a bit of innuendo, and the occasional moment that feels more crass than clever. It’s not Game of Thrones levels of problematic, but it’s also not VeggieTales.

As Christians, Philippians 4:8 gives us a helpful filter: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Does The Afterparty fit this description? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It’s a mixed bag. The challenge is to approach it with discernment, enjoying the good without letting the bad take root.

Themes Worth Exploring: Collaboration, Redemption, and Truth

One of the most compelling aspects of The Afterparty is how it emphasizes collaboration. The story itself unfolds through multiple perspectives, showing how each character’s voice adds something unique to the whole. This mirrors the biblical idea that we’re all part of one body, with different gifts and roles (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). No single person has the full picture, but together, we can create something beautiful.

There’s also an undercurrent of redemption in the show. Without giving too much away, several characters grapple with past mistakes and try to make things right. Their journeys aren’t always tidy or complete, but they’re relatable. In a way, this mirrors our own lives as Christians. We’re all works in progress, saved by grace but still stumbling along the path.

Finally, there’s the question of truth. At its heart, The Afterparty is a mystery, and mysteries are all about uncovering the truth. This pursuit of truth—even when it’s messy or uncomfortable—is deeply resonant for Christians. After all, Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Truth matters, and watching characters search for it, even in a comedic context, can spark deeper reflections on our own journeys.

Balancing Entertainment and Spiritual Growth

Here’s the thing: The Afterparty isn’t a Bible study, and it’s not meant to be. It’s entertainment, plain and simple. And that’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a well-crafted show, as long as it doesn’t become an idol or distract us from what’s truly important.

That said, it’s worth considering how we balance our media consumption. Are we filling our minds with things that draw us closer to God, or are we settling for whatever’s popular? Watching The Afterparty can be part of a healthy, balanced approach to entertainment, but it shouldn’t be the only thing we’re feeding our souls.

Final Thoughts: A Show Worth Watching, With Caveats

So, where does that leave us? The Afterparty is a wildly inventive, laugh-out-loud series that showcases the best of what modern television can do. It’s clever, funny, and full of heart. But it’s also imperfect, with moments that might make some Christian viewers pause.

Ultimately, whether or not to watch comes down to personal discernment. If you’re looking for something fun and creative, and you’re willing to navigate the occasional bump along the way, The Afterparty is worth checking out. Just remember to keep Philippians 4:8 in mind, and don’t be afraid to hit pause if something doesn’t sit right.

Rating: 8/10

There’s a lot to love here, but as with any party, it’s important to know when to leave. Watch with an open mind, a discerning heart, and maybe a snack or two. And if nothing else, let it remind you of the joy and creativity that reflect the ultimate Creator.