I watched all of Netflix’s new series Dead to Me in one day. This wasn’t my intention – but from the first five minutes, I knew I wasn’t getting anything else done that day.
Is it really that good? Yes, yes it is. Dead To Me is a masterpiece of television.
Don’t believe me? Do a simple search on social media and see the thousands of posts talking about how amazing this show is. If you’re still not convinced to bust open the Netflix app, let me break down for you just why this show is one of the best shows currently on television.
It’s funny
Okay, it’s not all funny, but the funny parts are really very funny. Laugh out loud funny. When is the last time you laughed out loud, Judy? Treat yourself.
It’s heartbreaking
Okay, it’s not all heartbreaking, but the heartbreaking parts are really heartbreaking. This show is such a perfect mix of comedy and drama, it’s an art-form. You’ll laugh and cry in every episode, and you’ll love it.
It’s suspenseful
In addition to this being an expertly balanced comedy-drama, it’s suspenseful AF. Edge of your seat, what’s happening next kind of stuff. I won’t go into details about this because it will ruin it for you, so you are just going to have to trust me about this.
I mean, I did watch all the episodes in one sitting for a reason. Think Desperate Housewives but better.
It stars two of the best actors in Hollywood
Christina Applegate has come a long way since her Married With Children days. She is an incredible actress with more versatility than she was ever given credit for. Her character in this show is complex and layered, but she handles the nuances like the pro she is.
We know Linda Cardellini is amazing. She is an acting chameleon. Though I have seen her in every role under the sun, this is hands down my favourite that she has played. Again, I won’t spoil it for you, but let’s just say she keeps you on your toes.
It portrays grief realistically
So often on TV shows, a character briefly grieves a loved one, then moves on as though everything is fine now. Dead to Me shows grief closer to how it really is – complex, on-going, and ever-changing.
Sometimes the characters are sad.
Sometimes they are angry.
Sometimes they laugh.
Sometimes they have multiple emotions at once, or displace their anger, or simply don’t know what to do at all.
Not every character is grieving a spouse or other immediate family member, some are grieving friends, aunts, etc., showing that lasting grief can happen for any loss. None of the characters are expected to be over their grief even by the end of the season – including secondary characters. It’s heartbreaking but refreshing.
Breast cancer is also discussed realistically
Christina Applegate is a breast cancer survivor in real life, and she brought her experience to her role. While not a major plot point, we get to see what life is like for survivors after treatment is done, and remission is reached.
James Marsden is in it
Try to think of something James Marsden was in that wasn’t good. You can’t do it. He’s the best.
Christina Applegate tells everyone no
Everyone. She just unabashedly says no and means it. It’s actually very cathartic to watch.
She says no so many times that someone made a video compilation for us to live through vicariously. If you have trouble being assertive and standing your ground, watch the show and take notes. Just don’t say no when Netflix asks you if you are still watching.
In case it isn’t hit-you-over-the-head clear by now, this show is amazing, and you should watch it. Pick a time when you have about five hours free (if you don’t have one, this is a good time to practice that no word) and binge it til your bladder and eyes burst.
You won’t regret it.