Although it’s still very early in year, I think I can safely say that Netflix’s new comedy, a reboot of the 1970s sitcom, this time focused on a Cuban-American family, is one of my favorite comedies of the year. Centered on Penelope Alvarez, a separated military vet and single mother of two and her children, along with her religious and vibrant mother Lydia, One Day at a Time deserves to be watched by everyone (beware spoilers!)
1) Diversity
Diversity is an important aspect for any television show, and One Day at a Time’s portrayal of a Cuban-America is both wonderful and extremely topical given the current political environment. The show tackles immigration head on, delving into Lydia’s journey in her move from Cuba to America with a deft hand. The episode was so good it made me cry.
2) Portrayal of feminist issues
The show is a feminist show right off the bat, with Elena, Penelope’s daughter being depicted as a passionate feminist who is not afraid to be herself no matter what. What I love about One Day at a Time’s feminism is the way it tackles different issues related to feminism, from sexism in the military as a veteran, to micro-aggressions such as mansplaining and the wage gap.
3) Female friendships
This series on female friendships is amazing, especially since these friendships involve multiple women of color, which is rare on television. Penelope sells her car and becomes fast friends with Jill Riley, a fellow former vet, who introduces her to a therapy group for women veterans, allowing the series to broach the topic of PTS and recovery after serving in the army, which it does masterfully. Elena’s friendship with her best friend Carmen is also in turns really sweet and really hilarious.
4) LGBT Themes
One Day at a Time’s handling of Elena’s coming out storyline is one of the best I’ve seen on any television show ever, exploring the relationship between Elena and Penelope from both sides. The writers give Penelope room for doubt, allowing her to grow into her acceptance, which reflects many coming-out storylines in real life. Elena’s rejection by her father in the last episode of the series hurts deeply, but it’s a wound soothed by the fact that she still has a loving, warm and hilarious family behind her, and it’s a family I’ll be revisiting again soon.
5) It’s really, really funny.