- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Hastings Today
By the People, for the People
Apple TV's Lessons in Chemistry Is a Captivating Weekend Binge
Brie Larson delivers a powerful performance in this character-driven drama set in 1950s America.
Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:27pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The shattered glass of a laboratory beaker reflects the emotional journey of Lessons in Chemistry's protagonist, Elizabeth Zott.Hastings TodayApple TV's limited series Lessons in Chemistry, based on Bonnie Garmus' novel, follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist who faces constant sexism and discrimination in her male-dominated field. After a tragic turn of events, Zott reinvents herself as a cooking show host, using her scientific expertise to inspire women across the country. Starring Brie Larson in a career-defining role, the eight-episode drama is an emotional rollercoaster that beautifully balances heartwarming and heartbreaking moments.
Why it matters
Lessons in Chemistry is a powerful exploration of the challenges women faced in 1950s America, particularly in male-dominated professions. The series tackles important issues like sexism, racism, and the fight for civil rights, making it a timely and relevant watch. Brie Larson's captivating performance as the determined and inspiring Elizabeth Zott has earned her critical acclaim, further cementing her status as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
The details
In the series, Larson's Elizabeth Zott is a brilliant chemist who works as a lab technician at the Hastings Research Institute, constantly overlooked and undervalued by her misogynistic colleagues. When she catches the eye of the institute's star researcher, Calvin Evans (Lewis Pullman), the two form an unlikely partnership and a blossoming romance. However, tragedy strikes, and Zott loses her job and access to her research. Determined to support herself and her daughter, Zott reinvents herself as a cooking show host, using her scientific expertise to inspire women across the country.
- Lessons in Chemistry premiered on Apple TV in 2023.
- The series is set in the 1950s in Hastings, Nebraska.
The players
Brie Larson
An Academy Award-winning actress who stars as Elizabeth Zott, the brilliant and determined chemist at the heart of Lessons in Chemistry.
Lewis Pullman
An up-and-coming actor who plays Calvin Evans, the star researcher at the Hastings Research Institute and Zott's love interest.
Aja Naomi King
An actress who portrays Harriet Sloane, Zott's neighbor and best friend, who is involved in the Civil Rights Movement.
What’s next
Lessons in Chemistry has been praised by critics and is expected to receive multiple award nominations, including potential Emmy nods for Brie Larson's performance.
The takeaway
Lessons in Chemistry is a powerful and inspiring drama that showcases Brie Larson's exceptional acting abilities. The series offers a poignant exploration of the challenges women faced in the 1950s, while also delivering a heartwarming story of determination, resilience, and the power of using one's talents to inspire others.
