We Might Regret This

A group of unlikeable and strangely immature characters living lives of financial privilege. I was disappointed watching this as I was so excited to see more disabled writers and actors showcased on the BBC.

The positive points were the frank expositions of disabled bodily needs and the depiction of a healthy disabled sex life. Both of these things are really important and need to be shown more.

However the show seems to be missing any real depth and the comedy missed the mark for me. All the relationships depicted were pretty toxic and I think they all need a few more sessions in therapy. There was a lack of empathy and understanding from almost every character.

(Reviewed after watching the first episode on iPlayer.)

It's clear a reasonable amount of work and thought has gone in to this. The script is quite restrained -- there's no straining to make things blatantly comedic. The performances are good and I found Kyla Harris to be very believable as Freya, though I found her character being described as "tetraplegic" rather strange as she seems to be able to use her arms.

But the whole thing feels a little bit too smooth -- I longed for some rough edges.

It may be that I just find the upper middle class milieu of a lawyer who clearly has no money troubles a little indulgent and unsympathetic.

Highly recommended! I wasn't sure what I was getting into, but ended up really enjoying this show.

Great writing and acting - lots of complex human relationships that I haven't really seen portrayed on TV. A tetraplegic woman - with all her strengths and flaws - living her best life? Never seen it. A separated couple and their adult son that are both dysfunctional and loving? Haven't seen that either. I also really enjoyed the Jo and Levi storyline - wish we could explore more of that.

The acting was genuinely great all around. Elena Saurel was pitch perfect as the vulnerable, avoidant Jo. Sally Phillips was a fantastic ex-wife - loving and whip sharp in equal measure. Edward Bluemel, did a great job as the wayward son Levi, sharp-tongued and sarcastic yet also vulnerable. Abe was a particularly adorable father and charming boyfriend. Kyla Harris brings a very real performance.

Ultimately this a show about humans - real humans, in comedic sitcom slices. I want more!

I was pleasantly surprised to see this show on the BBC. It's so rare to see disabled characters taking the lead and made for a refreshing change.

The show overall strikes a good balance between showing the realities of living with a life-changing disability and yet it not wholly being a show ABOUT disability. We get to see Freya, a tetraplegic, for who she is as a person rather than just a set of needs and inabilities.

As someone with a disability, it felt relatable without feeling like I was just watching a depressing tale about all the issues we can face, which can often happen.

There were a lot of loose ends and questions at the end of season 1, so I'm hoping we get more episodes. But definitely a very solid start to a new drama series.