TV Review: Shrill Returns For A Funnier, More Powerful Season 2
It is FANTASTIC to stand up for yourself. It feels empowering like “that person in your head” whom is the stronger, fierce version of you is even closer to becoming the ACTUAL you. Part of why Shrill Season 1 was so endearing is that Aidy Bryant’s Annie Easton represented this struggle: the “fantasy” us versus the “real” us. Moreover, she showed this struggle is amplified by how others’ see our body and scalp it as if it is an outer reflection of our inner function. In Season 2, Annie is definitely gaining and aiming for more confidence, but, like any process, maintenance is required.
By Episode 1, I was rolling with laughter. Aidy Bryant feels even more comfortable in her role as Annie; giving us more light-heartedness and quick wit, which feels like the real Aidy. Moreover, their is more physical comedy and the writing is comically brighter and crisper. Like your real friend, we pull for Annie as she as starts defending herself more and trying to see her desires through, but, like life, growing up does not mean the world grows with you. It is like getting the best grade in class; sure, you are the smartest but no one is rushing to praise you and, if they are, eventually they’ll stop. People don’t cheer you because you are trying to make your dreams comes true, but you still have to go for them… for you.
Shrill – Season 2 Trailer (Official) * A Hulu Original
The nuance of Season 2 is that it shows changing you really just means CHANGING YOU! That is YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENT! The world is still going to be jacked up, fatphobic, and casually sabotaging of your goals as seen by the return of John Cameron Mitchell’s completely self-absorbed Gabe. I LIVE for hating him, especially because he may be a “TV SHOW” character, but, trust me, GABE EXISTS. Still, at least this season, you grow to sees the layer beneath that “Cruella De Vil” hairstyle. Moreover, there are always haters, as seen my the “troll” played hilariously by Aidy’s fellow SNL cast member: Beck Bennett. Yet, as Annie becomes fearless, you see she has more reasons to be terrified.
When you become your own “boss,” both your gains and losses are on you and you recognize it. This dynamic defines her as she starts writing what she wants, investing in her relationships the way she wants, and having no problem wearing a bra with heart-shaped nips as part of her outfit. YAS KWEEN! Lolly Adefope as Fran and Ian Owens as Amadi return as Annie’s loving charismatic friends; supporting her misadventures in career and love, while having their own. Admittedly, one thing I REALLY like, especially about Season 2, is that it shows the work-force, especially in “creative industries” like online magazines, can be mean and unfair: furthering anyone’s existential crisis. Yet, love is strong enough to keep any one sane during craziness, which is why I adore Annie’s relationship with Luka Jones’ Ryan.
Shrill – Season 2 Teaser (Official) * A Hulu Original
Ryan is so supportive and caring, but GOD he needs to get his life together. When it comes to romance, two unstable people together is like trying to start a garden during hurricane. Do you really think this is going to work out, even if you have the water and soil? Their bond shows that having a person is good to you might not be enough if they are not trying to be better for or to themselves. Thus, as Season 2 progresses, Annie Easton become even more relatable and iconic of character. If in Season 1, we feel in love with her because we understood societal pains, in season 2, we “stan” her because we know her growing ones. Season 2 of Shrill premieres January 24.
