They're alive, damn it!

[orangerful]

Stayed home today because ugh my head was just full of snot. I am so lucky that I have coworking friends I can count on to cover for me on days like this. I almost dragged myself in to do a Babies program but then I thought if I was the mother of an infant seeing a librarian with a runny nose sing songs up close to my baby would NOT make me happy LOL. Plus, she has a baby IRL so it should be easy for her, right?

After I slept all morning, I filled time by binge watching the rest of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. I did end up liking it a lot, though it is hard not to love Ellie Kemper and her big goofy smile. Now I'm googling around and finding articles that hit upon the same concerns that I had when I started watching the show.

But in the end, while they did poke fun at race, gender, and sexuality, in the end it wasn't too far from some truths. And isn't that the purpose of comedy, to throw these things in our faces, make us laugh and then make us think? I never felt any of the humor in Unbreakable was meant to be rude or mean or disrespectful like, say the recent Adam Sandler movie that has Native American actors walking off the set. If this had been a serious show, then the entire thing would be different.

Unbreakable is about a group of people finding themselves and by the end of the season, everyone has taken a new step in the right direction. Here's hoping Season 2 is just as entertaining!

Comments

[ragnarok-08.livejournal.com]

I can't say that I've seen the Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt - it sounds good.

[orangerful.livejournal.com]

It's a Netflix exclusive (because NBC dropped it for some reason even though they ordered half a season...). Tina Fey is one of the creators and writers so I had to watch. It starts out a little rocky but once you "get" the world that has been created, it works.

[teagues-veil.livejournal.com]

I binged watch the fuck outta Kimmy and ended up 100% adoring it to pieces. I had a few issues, but still felt that considering just how many issues the show was addressing, overall, they did a great job. There's room for improvement on a few fronts (I wasn't super pleased about how Jacqueline's character/past was handled, for example) but I think there's always room for improvement in shows that are really trying to produce unique & relevant material.

[orangerful.livejournal.com]

So true. I find most shows that have weak spots in the first season have more room to grow and improve. So hopefully Season 2 will be even better!

[frelling-tralk.livejournal.com]

I hope you feel better soon :) People at work always kind of sideeye me when I don't come in when I've got a cold lol, but ick I cannot deal with members of the public when I am all snotty

[c-hrista.livejournal.com]

I loved loved loved this show. I can't wait for next season!

Hope you're feeling better now.

[kaaelyn.livejournal.com]

I adored this show. I completely agree with you that yes, there are a few issues, but overall, it's amazing. It's about people finding themselves and adapting to the world!

[penderies.livejournal.com]

I couldn't get five minutes into UKS, but everyone seems to be loving it, so maybe I'm just weird.

[orangerful.livejournal.com]

It took me a few episodes to sort of "get it" and I think for the show itself to find its footing. It's not the best thing ever but it is fun.

[elizalavelle.livejournal.com]

I've not watched Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt yet but it's on my list. I like having a half hour comedy on the go to break up the dramas I watch. Glad to see you think it's worth watching :)

[flirting.livejournal.com]

This is another reason to get NetFlix for me. Too many good shows I am missing!

[faeriesfolly.livejournal.com]

I loved it. I watched the whole thing just clicking next, next, next, NEXT, NEXT!! It was a comedy and every single person/character/type was uber-exaggerated and ridiculous and silly and random stereotypes but also poking fun at those and it never took itself seriously and therefore it worked.

I could see an issue if it was ONE THING or RACE or whatever that was mocked or something, but it was all the things so *shrug*.

Plenty more serious things/shows/etc that actually deserve people up in arms about them.

I can't wait for season two!

[orangerful.livejournal.com]

It's equal opportunity mocking, that is for sure. Reading the articles it seems the characters people were most uncomfortable with were the ones that weren't made fun of enough? Like Dong and the Native American parents. Their characters fit so well into previous stereotypes that its like reviewers were disappointed that they didn't get skewered as much.

But I do find the best shows have not the best first seasons. So Kimmy is bound for greatness.

[faeriesfolly.livejournal.com]

They just weren't as over the top in their portrayal, I think. It was there it just wasn't as AHHHHHHH *arm waving, dressed in neon* Plus they didn't have as much screen time in general.

I'm sure they'll get to it, now that we have a second season.

[igrockspock.livejournal.com]

I loved Kimmy Schmidt! I agree that it's not a perfect show, but it's pretty damn good. I think the humor about gender relationships and social class says some pretty important things about the state of American society. The racial humor, particularly where Jacqueline's past is concerned, is pretty problematic. I think maybe they were trying to call attention to how ridiculous it is that certain wealthy social groups are closed off to racial minorities? If so, that message didn't really get through. Overall, though, I really liked what they had to say, and I really loved how it's a funny show that's still emotionally resonant. I'm looking forward to season two!

[orangerful.livejournal.com]

Yes, the more I think about the show and other comedies I love, usually the first season is the rockiest. I really can't wait for Season 2 because you know Fey & Co will listen to the feedback and work to create an even better show.

[unusual-lullaby.livejournal.com]

I watched the trailer and it looks like fun. And Kimmy looks so cute and full of life. I need things like this. I will def. watch it :) Thanks!