Somebody Somewhere

The memories many have, of not quite fitting in in high school, of being the butt of cruel jokes and gossip then and sometimes decades later, especially if you're from a small town or community. Of still trying to be a good person, do good work and have a good life, but the losses, the banality of the privileged and being made to feel unwanted and weird because of how you look, who you love or don't love begin to add up and you feel lost and maybe even a loser.

The pilot introduced the main character through her current living situation and parts of her past which are revealed during conversations and reminiscences with others. It's done in a subtle way that fits the succinct honesty I remember well growing up in the rural South. It was suggested Sam had a romantic relationship with another woman before in a way that positively normalized there are millions of same gender relationships that loving and they miss someone now gone just like anyone else.

The new/old acquaintances Sam meets in an "underground" church clearly show a range of personalities, ethnicities and suggested gender or sexualities who welcoming and comfortable around each other because they are their Real selves. That's it's more about finally finding a supportive group of people who accept and appreciate you for who you are, instead of attempting to force you into roles or to be autamatons they think you should be to keep them comfortable. And ironically, which many of them force roles or criticize others because they're trying to redirect away from their own repressed feelings, desires and emotions.

This was a pleasantly surprising start to series that occasionally features naturally occurring humor, but I certainly would not label it in any way a comedy. I found the pilot to perfectly understated yet powerful.

........ and I am hooked. It's relatable. I think for so many people, it will be. Maybe not all of it. But pieces of it.

Jeff Hiller. So good. Love the casting so far in general.

And that scene at the end has broken my heart. But in a good way.

Just a real show about people who don't have their life together. I always end up with a smile on my face and laughing out loud. It's an enjoyable 30min show.

Seriously, this show is so terrific I feel like I'm getting away with something just watching it. Even better, every episode so has been better than the last.

Creators/directors the Duplass Bros. And stars Bridget Everett and Jeff Hiller, (as Sam and Joel), are knocking it out of the park, but I would also gladly follow Sam's awesome dad around, or the one-in-a-zillion Fred Rococco.

It's feel-good, but real, with some achy heart and grit and Kansas grain thrown in. If you are alive, you will cackle.

"Somebody Somewhere" is a hidden gem in today's entertainment landscape, deserving of far more attention than it currently receives. In a world where superficiality often overshadows substance, this series shines with its genuine storytelling and heartfelt performances.

At its core, "Somebody Somewhere" embraces simplicity, capturing the essence of human experience in a profoundly relatable way. The characters feel like real people grappling with real issues, and their journey resonates deeply emotionally.

What sets "Somebody Somewhere" apart is its authenticity. It doesn't rely on gimmicks or shock value to grab attention but draws viewers in with sincerity and honesty. The writing is sharp and witty, delivering moments of humor and poignancy that resonate with audiences.

The performances are exceptional, with the cast bringing depth and nuance to their roles. All actors deliver a standout performance, infusing their characters with vulnerability and strength.

One of the show's strengths is its willingness to tackle difficult subject matter with grace and sensitivity, exploring themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for meaning with honesty and compassion.

In a world dominated by superficiality, "Somebody Somewhere" reminds us of the beauty of simplicity and the power of genuine storytelling. Underrated though it may be, this series is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by discerning viewers.