Betty

Watching Betty feels like nothing else I've ever seen on television. I love that this isn't another empty statement about empowerment and defying expectations in a man's world. It just does it and doesn't feel the need to brag about it. And that is exactly what we need today.

I love that the actors are skaters plucked from the streets, so zero 'trained' acting ability but a naturalness that transcends it. I love the fashion, almost like '80's UK rave (yeah, I'm that old). I love the feminine love angle and the guys that get it, and pity the those that don't. I'm surprised that male skaters are so bigoted, it's the preserve of free thinkers like surfing, or so I thought. But it turns out it's just another bastion of Alpha A-Holes, with a capital A&H. Bummer. Skating is about freedom of expression, not conforming, doing your own thing. The assumption that women can't know their own minds is absurd, they're often the ones that keep men in check and encourage them to be better. Show me a single man that made it on his own? You can't. Apart from Steve Jobs, maybe? And he excelled at getting others to do the work, His right hand man was a woman. So go figure. The soundtrack is also pretty good, a few have made it onto my Spotify. I've only seen two ep's at the mo', but I'm liking it, a lot, memories of gravel rashes, lumps on my head and moments of unconsciousness are coming back, and they make me laugh in a nostalgic, old fart way. More power to you, chaps, I'll keep watching. This is skating.

I was so excited to see something like this was coming out and I'm always floored at how real Crystal Moselle's work with these girls feel. So good and so needed. Really wish you could review a review. It's all a matter of opinion I guess but the people here rating this show a 1, well, this kind of show isn't for you. It was not created for you. Periodt. I never do reviews of anything but these uglies kinda set me off.

Incoherent drivel. No cohesive storyline, terrible acting (an ensemble that never really gels) and just plain boring. For those who wonder why it only has a 6.5 rating - well, it would actually be lower were it not for the single-review users who give it a 10.

Easily the best tv show I've seen in years. Such a strong tone. Every character has so much personality, even the minor ones. Such deep and varied emotions. So many subtle flourishes. Over and over, you'll notice a quick facial expression that makes you understand the entire scene in a different way. Such a powerful pacing and structure. The combination of everything nearly gave me Stendhal syndrome. Cannot wait for season 2!!

P.S. Apparently some reviewers disagree on this last point, but I would just like to say that I liked this even more than Skate Kitchen. Skate Kitchen was solidly good and quite endearing, but hinted at a potential greater than itself. This show achieves that potential.