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Women behind bars & in sci-fi stories

Women behind bars & in sci-fi stories

Women behind bars & in sci-fi stories

These series are different in every way, except they both feature women on screen and behind the camera.

Roar The 2 women behind Glow have created this anthology series of what they call “darkly comic feminist fables,” and I’d call “Twilight Zone around women’s experiences.” Either way, this unusual series takes a unique look at weird events that happen to modern women. These include becoming invisible to everyone (Issa Rae), eating photographs to re-live past memories (Nicole Kidman) and (my fave) having an affair with a duck (Merritt Wever). The stories put women in interesting situations and the performances are all wonderfully committed to the unlikely scenarios. While there are mildly sinister elements, the overall ambience is one of lightness, even with the darkest stories. (Review based on 6 of 8 episodes) 4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Apple+ link

 

Hard Cell This British import was created and stars Catherine Tate, who’s a popular comedy star in England (and reminds me of a younger Tracey Ullman). She plays 5 of the main characters, including the head of a women’s prison, where the action takes place. It’s set up as a mockumentary that includes encounters with numerous inmates, plus lots of scenes with the boss and her surly assistant. The premise is that they’re going to stage a musical to help the women improve their attitudes and grow as people. Some of the moments are truly hilarious, while many scenes are just silly or stupid. Other than her boss role, Tate’s other character creations are rather obnoxious. There’s def a British sensibility in the broadness of the humor, which may appeal to some. I’d suggest giving it one short episode to see how it appeals to your taste. (Six 30-minute episodes) 3 out of 5 stars (3 / 5)

Netflix link