Raw-dogging? Nope Just A Shrill Review

Shrill
2019 | TV-MA | 6 Episodes | Comedy | Hulu

Creators: 

Aidy Bryant

Alexandra Rushfield

Lindy West

Stars: 

Aidy Bryant

Lolly Adefope

Luka Jones

Synopsis:

Annie is a full-figured woman who wants to change her life -- but not her body; she is trying to start her career while juggling bad boyfriends, a sick parent, and a perfectionist boss.

This Hulu dramedy stars Aidy Bryant (HBO's Girls) as an overweight woman figuring out which indignities she will accept and which she will reject in a world that prizes thin bodies. I hate the term Binge Worthy but Shrill is just that. 

Shrill is a smart and funny show about an overweight 20-something writer navigating self-esteem issues so deeply ingrained she doesn't always seem to recognize they're there.  We see her bending over backward to excuse the disappointing behavior of her friend with benefits Ryan, a bearded slacker who makes her leave through the back door of his house so his roommates won't see her. And her high-strung mother takes her own mental derangement out on Annie through a constant barrage of passive-aggressive remarks about her weight.

 The six-episode series tracks Annie's complicated and messy journey toward reclaiming her space in the world and embracing who she is without apologies. Though billed primarily as a comedy, Shrill has a tender sort of humor and is unique in the way it allows Annie to be a multidimensional human being. I love how cocky she can be while exploring the many ways society at large can squash a person's individuality and confidence. It's that confidence that kept me wanting more. 

There is something about Bryant's bubbly charm that keeps you from putting down the remote, and although she can come off a tiny bit awkward in the show's more deeply emotional moments, this doesn't seem too out of place, considering that the character herself is only just beginning to be comfortable pursuing what she wants out of her life and the people in it. Not sure how Hulu felt about how Shrill was going to do only ordering up six episodes but I sure hope to get more in the next season.

Shrill is a fun and cute show that comes packed with a powerful message for those of us that struggle with self-esteem. 

4 out of 5 Stars