Fleabag is about a thirtysomething British woman living in London. Both her mother and best friend have recently died. The woman, who is the titular "Fleabag," although no one ever calls her that, THANK GOD, sleeps around, steals, masturbates frequently, and drives everyone who is even vaguely kind to her out of her life. (And it manages to do this while being nothing like Girls).
This is what got to me about Fleabag:
This is what got to me about Fleabag:
- Fleabag is so adrift in life that she stops making decisions. Part of the series' angle is that she's a sexual deviant, but as I watched, I felt like she just didn't have the energy or inclination to say no. Life is pointless, so why bother? Why be nice to people? Why hold onto your boyfriend? Why make an effort with your failing cafe? Why not give your number to the buck-toothed guy on the bus? Nothing's going to work out anyway.
- Fleabag's relationship with her sister, while it resembles no sisterly relationship I've seen, feels real. Their closeness, in the midst of constant sniping, is unspoken and obvious.
- Fleabag's issues seem to stem from the death of her best friend, Boo. In flashbacks, Boo is a clear tether for Fleabag. While Fleabag is acidic and cynical, Boo is tender and kind, without being mushy. They laugh, and have no need for anyone else. So when Boo "accidentally" commits suicide (Fleabag insists that it was intended as a ploy for her ex's attention), Fleabag is alone. Very alone.
- I said "seem" to stem because the final episode reveals that Fleabag's issues aren't exactly new.
- This sounds dark, right? But it's also really funny.
- I am obsessed with Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who created and stars in the show, as she is a brave and gorgeous artist.
- Why did Amazon choose this image as the key art?!
The show is FUNNY! I swear! Go watch it.
