While it takes the series a few episodes to find its footing, it eventually settles into an even pace, supported by the strong performances and adaptation.
The Midnight Sky is another example of something that could’ve been a complex and emotionally affecting work of science-fiction, but quickly collapses.
In context to its insufferably self-congratulatory source, Hillbilly Elegy might be the least-bad adaptation one could hope for, for whatever that’s worth.