Yes I am sitting here writing another post to add to the already insane amount that has circulated the internet about this awesome show. Yet I am extremely okay with that, because it deserves it.
The internet has become inundated with memes, reviews, instagram accounts (hello @connellschain) and women everywhere getting hot in the head about Connell Waldron, played by Irish actor Paul Mescal. Originally released by Hulu, it graced BBC 3 in April and amassed over 16.2 million views in its first week. The largest amount BBC 3 has ever received.
“Relationships are complex and they should be portrayed like that.”
When I say you ‘should’ watch it. I mean you have to watch it. It is the first show, in a while, that I’ve been totally gripped to – I finished it in a matter of days (which for some of you will be disappointing seeing they are only 29 minutes long but I do have a life outside TV – until that shrivels up the longer lockdown keeps on going).
The chemistry, as you might have heard, between Marianne (Daisy-Edgar Jones) and Connell (Paul Mescal) is immeasurable and captivates your attention from the start. As a 20 year old it was refreshing to see a late-teen couple on TV who had issues and weren’t absolutely perfect. Yes the show is very racy (I don’t think I’d like to watch it with my parents) but the perfection of the shots and the acting takes the awkwardness out of it. Instead it just feels real.
Apart from the important issue of consent and sexual abuse, I really appreciated how they showcased someone who wasn’t completely comfortable at uni. Connell felt like he didn’t belong in his classroom, felt very undervalued and not good enough. A thought I highly resonated with. Just because you’re not the talk of the class does not mean you don’t deserve a seat at the table.
I applaud the cast and crew of this programme for not glorifying any aspect of life as a teenager/young adult. Relationships are complex and they should be portrayed like that. I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed for a second season.
Finally, to Sally Rooney, the author of such a world, I think I need to read the books now. Thank you!
The show is available now on BBC iPlayer or Hulu.
If you have watched the show I’d love to hear your thoughts. Do you agree? Or was it too racy for your liking?
Much love,
Sophie x
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