Half Man explores the origins of a complex brotherhood between two men, Niall and Ruben, that started when they were teens. After nearly 40 years, the two are reunited when Ruben unexpectedly shows up at Niall’s wedding. Niall seeks to avoid any interaction, but Ruben insists he speak with his “brother from another lover.” Alone, the two embrace, and Ruben suddenly punches Niall to the ground.

We shift back to the ’80s with a teen Niall, living with his mother Lori. He’s an awkward film buff, bullied for his weak stature. His sour disposition for school deepens when he learns juvenile delinquent Ruben is being released to live with them. The two become step-brothers as their mothers are partners.

Ruben and Niall are polar opposites; water and oil. But the two slowly develop a kinship. Ruben protects Niall from his bully, Gus. In return, Niall finishes Ruben’s preliminary exam, allowing him to remain in school. Ruben rewards Niall by orchestrating his first sexual encounter, albeit against his will.

The next day, the two arrive to school as a unit. Girls adore them, while boys stay out of their way.

The episode closes in the present, with Niall bloodied on the ground. He panics as Ruben kneels over to calm him. Smiling, Ruben softly whispers, “It will be over soon.” Cut to black.

Half Man wastes little time setting its volatile tone, for a uniquely intimate and rough coming-of-age tale. Viewers will immediately recognize the archetypes portrayed by the young actors. Stuart Campbell’s Ruben bucks authority at every turn, amassing all the air in the room with his charismatic bravado. No wonder Mitchell Robertson’s Niall can’t help but be drawn in his orbit. Ruben embodies the masculinity Niall wishes he could exude; the perfect facade to hide something he can’t yet admit to himself. Despite some predictable narrative points, the performances are strong. And the mystery of what transpired between the brothers is enough to keep viewers intrigued.

Rating: 7.5/10