The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel S1-4 Review: ICONIC!

This review has been a long time coming. I heard about this show awhile back but only decided to watch it when Season 4 dropped and I have to say, I do not regret the decision. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel stars Rachel Brosnahan in the titular role as a quintessential late 50s uptown housewife. When her husband admits to having an affair, Midge discovers she has a talent for comedy while on a drunken escapade. This leads her to seeking out a career as a comedienne, aided by her new manager and social misfit Susie Myers (Alex Borstein).

Also Read: Stranger Things S4 Volume 1 Review – The Most Entertaining Season So Far!

Midge is an every woman type of girl. Smart, witty, well dressed and fiercely independent, she’s definitely a character women can identify with. Her only problem is that she’s good at most everything so when comedy doesn’t come quite as easily to her, her entitlement often shows.

While the show does focus primarily on showbiz especially the comedy scene, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is really about a woman gaining her independence and succeeding in a male dominated profession. She’s determined to take on life as a young divorced mother of two small children. For the 60s it’s scary but also thrilling and inspiring. We’re all rooting for Midge and Susie to reach the very top.

The show possesses many layered and entertaining characters whose arcs progress quite naturally overtime. The chemistry between Midge and Lenny is delicious. My favourite part about their friendship is that they both respect each other so much and their chosen craft. When Lenny helps Midge, it isn’t because he’s trying to get laid but that he genuinely sees her talent and ability.

Lenny is the white knight Midge doesn’t need but appreciates all the same. The relationship between Midge and Susie is also noteworthy. Two very different women, whose differences make for much entertaining dialogue. Abe (Midge’s father) played by the talented Tony Shalhoub (who you might remember from Monk) is hilarious, in fact it’s clear Midge gets her humor from him. He, along with Susie and Lenny are my favourites. The show has a real 60’s uptown Manhattan vibe to it that I am in love with. The soundtrack is a confection of soda pop hits.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel gives us a window into showbiz in the 60s, whether it be stand-up comedy, live bands or burlesque, these little shows within the show are entertaining to watch. It also shines a light on the overlooked in and out of showbiz during the 60s. Whether it be women, gays or non whites. Displays of Hebrew culture in comical settings are this show’s bread and butter. Midge’s outfits are always a scene stealer. Seriously, if the costume designer hasn’t already won an Emmy for her costumes, I’ll be shocked. They’re honestly as iconic as Fran’s wardrobe in The Nanny.

I honestly love these types of shows. Retro with female leads… there’s just something about it that’s so appealing to my inner feminist I guess. Physical, G.L.O.W, Mrs. Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries and Miss Scarlett and the Duke are all shows you can watch if you like this subgenre too. Well done The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, I will definitely be tuning into season 5.

‘Jagame Thandhiram’ Rating – 3/5

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