TV Review: Hulu’s Shrill Shows The Beauty of Body Positivity
As women, our bodies have historically been open to social commentary. From literature to art and even commercials, how we look is tossed into conversation as something that should be conversed about. This is particularly so when it comes to women’s weight. In this world, too many treat being fat as being ugly, and being ugly as being unlivable. Hulu’s Shrill is such a heartwarming, slick comedy because it says something every big girl should know: being big does not mean you are dead.
The biggest journey Aidy Bryant’s FIERCE Annie takes is her realization that her body is not a prison. She can dance if she wants to, and eat late-night spaghetti. She can wear a glittering dress or bathing suit. She can be funny or sad without being compared to a fat actress. She does not have to accept men “hiding” her because they they find her weight a shameful sight, and SHE DOES NOT HAVE TO SETTLE FOR ANY BS! From her boss, James Cameron Mitchell as the cruel Gabe, to her “boyfriend,” Luka Jones as the ridiculous Ryan, Annie takes the jabs presented as compliments and, in some ways, retreats her sparkling personality so as to not get too much attention. It is as if being a “fat girl” means she can only be sweet to others, but not smarter than them or even self-defensive.
In essence, being deemed “physically big” means you are spiritually and socially bound by others. Yet, the real question is if others chain you to their negative ideas of you, why do you chain yourself to them, as well?After going to a Fat Body Pool Party, Annie becomes so empowered that she no longer apologizes for existing. The ladies she meets have been so weight labeled by the world that they are exhausted of feeling hurt or having to hide that they feel great in their bodies, even if you don’t like them. This IS SO IMPORTANT! You deserve to be happy as a person even when others are unhappy with your looks, and this is, especially, true with how kind and smart Aidy Bryant makes our heroine: Annie.
Shrill reminded me of Netflix’s After Life series, in which there are unavoidable giggles because of the comedienne at helm. Thus, the surprise comes in the warmth and protectiveness that grows within you as you watch Annie get bullied by others and empowered by each herself; proving that when you strip away the material you have the opportunity to find the spiritual like, friendship and love in the forms of the hilarious Fran (Lolly Adefope), the cool Vic (Melanie Field), and the loyal Adami (Ian Owens). Shrill premieres March 15 on Hulu.
