This Way Up

Depression is not pleasant to say the least, but this series brings the point home without labouring it. Laughter smoothly moves to tears and back to laughter... much like life. The most depressing part for me was realising I had just watched the last episode of series 1. I'm really hoping for series 2, and as quickly as possible please! If you haven't seen it, make sure you do, your life can only be a little poorer without it....

This Way Up is an incredibly raw and realistic portrayal of mental illness that steers away from cliches or stigmatization. It's not sanitized, but it's not sensationalized either. The show balances comedy and drama expertly. There are absolutely laugh out loud moments, but the show doesn't sacrifice substance for a laugh. Aisling Bea's storytelling is superb, and she's managed to create memorable and nuanced characters.

It's not a comedy like most I've seen. Watching this made me feel like hanging out with that funny friend you have who doesn't necessarily make jokes, just a funny character and makes you laugh all the time, it's not forced or scripted, they're just able to find humour behind anything.

However, the shows more than just the humour, it shows a person who's struggling mentally and how it's affecting her life and those around her, veiling her struggles from her friends. Casting is spot on and they really bring the characters and story to life. It's cleverly written and manages to reflect mental issues in such a sad yet funny way. Aisling bea is really amazing at deflecting uncomfortable or awkward situations with her wittiness, even in real life. Her and Sharon's relationship in the show is amazing. I think the show deserves a little more recognition, just a little.

An incredible show that has so much honesty and heart and is Funny! Really reminds you to show up for others and keep laughing and loving even when you feel terrible. And it's just amazing well written and acted. The whole cast is phenomenal.

Is that there are only 6 episodes each season! Too brief a time with these wonderfully drawn and acted characters! Every actor embodies their character with vivid realness, kindness, and completeness. A perfect blend of humor, drama, and reality. How long will we have to wait for the next season?? Hopefully, all remain healthy and return for season 3.