Love might be patient and kind, yet it can also be incredibly messy. In Lena Dunham’s new Netflix comedy, the show delivers one of the notably relatable love stories seen on TV in recent years.
This semi-autobiographical series, created by Meg Starter, features Jessica, portrayed by Starter, who decides to leave her life in New York after parting ways with Zev (Michael Zegen). She embarks on a journey to redefine herself and attempts to navigate a relationship with a knitting influencer named Wendy Jones (Emily Ratajkowski). Jessica aims to reconnect with her roots while managing projects based in London through her company.
Upon arriving in the UK, Jessica soon discovers that things aren’t quite as idyllic as they seem; life isn’t depicted like it is in the films she grew up watching with her family. Fortunately, she meets Felix (Will Sharp), a charming and enigmatic musician just hours after touching down at Heathrow, leading to a whirlwind romance filled with highs and lows influenced by external pressures and personal struggles.
When I think about romantic comedies, particularly in a longer series format like this—much more than the typical 90 minutes—I wonder if I’m getting the laughs I want alongside the love I see on screen. Looking back at iconic rom-coms like *27 Dresses*, *Notting Hill*, or *50 First Dates*, I often find them unrealistic. Even while watching them, you notice how little the characters resemble the people you actually know. I find myself celebrating when genuine moments happen amidst the more absurd elements of those films.
Based on what many women have experienced in their relationships, this show is aptly titled. It guarantees laughs, for sure. If you’ve enjoyed Dunham’s previous work, you’ll recognize a familiar style in her humor that feels true to who she is. Starter embodies a character reminiscent of Dunham, presenting a narrative that, while unique, resonates deeply with women’s experiences. The questions of “Do I belong?” and “Do I want to belong?” echo universal struggles.
On the love front, it’s refreshing to see vulnerability portrayed authentically. The dynamic between Jessica and Felix stands out, capturing Jessica’s unfiltered thoughts and feelings. With input from Dunham’s husband, Lewis Felber, the series delves into how individual traumas and backgrounds shape reflection and choices in relationships.
Interestingly, I’ve been pondering the concept of “baggage” lately, which makes this show feel especially timely. It’s not about trash in a literal sense, but rather the emotional weight we carry, often referred to as our “packages” in media. A recent conversation with my father really hit home, highlighting that our biggest challenge is to keep the good parts of ourselves intact. So, *excessively* compellingly prompts us to confront our messiness.
Remarkably, even characters we dislike are crafted in a way that has us questioning our own harshness towards them. Early on, we learn that Zev is not a great person, with various examples illustrating his past disregard for others, making his presence form emotional scars. Yet, the series acknowledges that we’re all human, and it can be tough to navigate imperfections in the pursuit of love, especially when we feel mismatched ourselves.
Overall, I find it hard to pinpoint flaws in the series, aside from some hit-or-miss jokes. It feels like we’ve returned to a familiar yet refreshed landscape reminiscent of *girl*, engaging with relatable interactions. On the surface, *excessively* seems to be an engaging rom-com, leaving you eager for a second season after finishing the first. However, delve deeper, and you’ll uncover touching narratives about love and self-discovery, especially in a time where social media comparisons can overshadow real life.
It’s tough to claim that Netflix has something as unconventional as *No One Wants This* readily available. Thanks to Starter and Dunham, *excessively* invites viewers to redefine expectations in their search for love, while keeping their hearts open. Love can indeed be troublesome, yet it’s also described as patient and kind… or so goes the saying.
*excessively* Season 1 is now streaming on Netflix.
