24
Feb
Sometimes, time really heals it all. Maybe because life resembles the Ouroboros, consuming itself until it reaches the exact same point it has started from. In this case, the point happens to be marked by the chirping of birds and the smell of cherry blossoms. Yes, indeed, I am once again drooling over spring.
And this time, I bring about a reasonable way of negotiating with time, in order to bring her closer to us. Namely, by choosing a show from this select sisterly-approved collection and immersing oneself in it.
Each one of them is incredible, but in a different way. If you want to turn off your brain for a couple of hours, we have the perfect fit! If analyzing and theorizing is more up your lane, I think you already know what we are going to suggest. So, without further ado, let’s dissect some television:
1. Twin Peaks – small town, big moments of “uhm, what did just happen?”
I have already paved the way for this recommendation, but I don’t mind placing some more yellow bricks on it.
This early 90’ TV series might not be for everyone, but, if it’s for you, it will most likely change the way you think. Although it starts somehow grounded, it becomes confusing and unhinged rather quickly. It feels like a recorded dream, from the bizarre action to the symbolism of even tiny details.
Twin Peaks somehow gives you all the answers and none at the same time. If you want to understand what is going on, you will. If not, it is just as enjoyable to relish in the unknown and mistery of it all. It has a clear plot, but that is not the main concern of the directors. They have to say so much more than is it being shown in the original series. That’s exactly why I was so excited to find out about the movie and the continuation that takes place 25 years later.
A couple episodes in, you will start humming along to the eerie intro song and not question Special Agent Dale Cooper’s actions anymore. I watched it with my boyfriend and we never skipped the introduction, even though it is just the moving image of a waterfall accompanied by the names of the actors.
Everything feels like a veil you are eager to admire, and, at the same time, to tear off. Each episode delivers the ideal combination of enigma and comfort, in order to keep you hooked, while also making you feel part of the community.
As a person who heavily romanticizes small towns and their dynamics, I believe this one might be the homiest representation of one, even with all the murders and screams and morally corrupt events.
After watching the original series, the movie, the return, as well as reading a bunch of online articles and theories (this is my favorite one, if you are interested), I can proudly say I have an idea of what is going on.
Given the protagonist’s obsession with coffee, I would pair an episode of this oneiric journey with a mug of black coffee, preferably diner style.
2. The Nanny – fashion and endearing accents
Despite its success and popularity since its debut, I have only recently discovered this comedic masterpiece. It is so light and delightful, it feels like biting into a meringue. At its core, you can clearly taste all the incredible writing and thinking that was put in the production of the show.
The main character is just a treat to watch, with her aloof, yet deeply caring attitude. Franny, the bridal shop employee, turned beautician, turned nanny, has the comforting vibes of an unbothered aunt. Her outfits are probably our absolute favorite part of the show, alongside her iconic big and puffy hairstyles.
I think one can learn a couple of important life lessons from her, such as that no matter how hopeless the situation feels, you can always turn it around with some humor and good-heartedness. And, although the show kind of pulls a slow burn on its audience, it doesn’t feel forced in an annoying way, just silly and typical given the characters.
If you want to experience a buoyant glimpse of the differences in classes and mindsets in New York during the 90’s, this is the show for you. The episodes are only approximately 25 minutes long and packed with witty dialogues, fun mishaps and familial affection. That is another thing I admire about this show, the love and care between the characters feels so real and unscripted, it is a pleasure to watch.
Moreover, even if some of the characters may seem caricaturistic, all of them have been shown to display depth and subtle character development. No one is unredeemable, no one is strictly “good” or “bad”, just different people going through various life events and dealing with them in amusing ways.
Because everyone is always gossiping in the kitchen, I believe a viewing goes well with a cup of tea (or a kettle, if you are preparing for a binge). Maybe, some English tea to honor our charming British male protagonist? Add a splash of milk, if you are into that.
3. Younger – critique of society combined with fun drinks
This is our current watch or, in my sister’s case, re-watch (yes, she just finished it and started it again right away). We are very fond of – almost – everything Darren Star does, as he brings a little bit of The Devil Wears Prada in everything he creates.
The show centers around a 40-year-old recently divorced mom who tries to get back into publishing. However, she cannot land a job because of her age and her taking 18 years off from work in order to raise her daughter. So her idea is to lie about her age, declaring she is actually 26.
Obviously, this wacky premise makes for a wacky show. And it is great! The action, in spite of maybe not being the most realistic, evolves nearly organically, without lacking entertainment or crazy twists. The characters are unique and well-developed, not following stereotypes or basic storylines.
The thing that we enjoy the most comes from Liza’s (the protagonist) wisdom. It is so refreshing to see a conversation between a 26-year-old and an actually 40-year-old where the life experience is not used as a weapon. Liza wants to adapt and to understand a world that has shifted so quickly, without her even realizing it.
Younger is a show so complex that a character can be both authentic and a fraud at the same time and it doesn’t seem forced. The learned lessons don’t just evaporate into thin air from one episode to the other, but are integrated within the context of the characters. It is simply so satisfying to watch this show that winter will melt away right outside your window.
And, because every young adult’s way of solving problems in this show involves going out for drinks, I think it would only be appropriate to savor a glass of martini with it. Don’t forget the olives!
how do you want these last moments of winter to feel?
Even by reading this article, you are closer to spring. A couple of minutes closer to it, to be exact. And, a single question remains: how do you want these last moments of winter to feel? Solving mysteries in a usually peaceful town? Shopping retail and gossiping in a New York City mansion? Or maybe climbing up the corporate ladder while trying to conceal the fact that you have two driver’s licenses.
Whatever you choose, make sure to prepare yourself a cozy or funky beverage to go with it!
Kurtiboo
Despite not having watched any of these shows (except for some Instagram reels of Franny’s fabulous outfits, obviously), I chuckled reading this post. The way you write about the shows makes them sound so tasty and fun! Thank you for the amazing recommendations, you’ve never had a miss, to be fair (hehe). As for how I’d like to spend my last days of winter (astronomically, it is still winter, ok?), my answer is that they all sound like peak(s) shows! :)) Sending warmth and strength to get through the last days of winter! <3 XOXO :*
The Cozy Sisters
Hehe, we are so glad!!! We hope spring comes so quickly, you will be able to once again go outside and make your everyday life the real TV show <3