Mr. Corman

Josh Corman used to imagine a life under bright lights, but instead he teaches fifth grade and spends a lot of time replaying what might have been. He genuinely cares about his students, yet he’s often anxious, restless and frustrated by the gap between his ambitions and his everyday reality. The series follows his small daily dramas, awkward social moments, late-night ruminations and occasional bursts of creativity, mixing comic beats with quieter, more introspective scenes. Friends, colleagues and a complicated dating life add texture, while Josh’s inner monologues and fantasies reveal how regret, responsibility and the search for meaning affect someone who still wants more from life.

Premiered in 2021, Mr. Corman was created by and stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who plays the title role. Arturo Castro co-stars as Victor Morales, and the show blends comedic and dramatic elements around its lead performance.

Critical reaction was mixed to positive, reflected by a vote average around 6.36/10 from a small sample of viewers. Many reviews praised Gordon-Levitt’s willingness to play a flawed, neurotic protagonist and the show’s focus on mental health and the strains of creative ambition. Others found the tone uneven and the pacing slow at times. Major themes include midlife anxiety, masculinity, the emotional labor of teaching, and the tension between practical life and artistic desire.

While it didn’t become a cultural phenomenon, Mr. Corman developed a modest, devoted audience and sparked online conversations about the pressures teachers face and the emotional cost of trying to "make it" as a creative adult. Viewers and commentators noted its frank treatment of therapy, depression and anxiety, and some essays and social posts used the show as a touchstone for discussing personal and professional dissatisfaction.

The series didn’t collect major awards, but critics frequently highlighted Gordon-Levitt’s layered performance and Arturo Castro’s support. The show drew attention for its willingness to mix formats and moods, even if that experimental streak divided viewers.