Awkward.

Awkward. is a critically acclaimed television show from MTV that presents a humorous and relatable depiction of teenage life, following all the high-energy drama, romance and the uneasy, awkward moments that come with it. The series aired from 2011 to 2016, intertwining comedy and drama in a perfect balance to create a consistently engaging narrative.

The show is narrated by the main character, Jenna Hamilton, gracefully portrayed by Ashley Rickards. Jenna is an average teenage girl dealing with the usual challenges of high school and quest for self-discovery. The show kicks off with an unfortunate incident that is misinterpreted as a suicide attempt. This mishap suddenly thrusts the otherwise invisible Jenna into the spotlight, making her the center of attention for all the wrong reasons. Awkward. gives a new twist to the classic coming-of-age story, blending together the elements of high school dramas and the intricacies of teenage angst in an engaging mix that is both entertaining and relatable.

Jenna is surrounded by a colorful cast of characters that add depth and dimension to the storyline. From her caring but overbearing mother, to her loyal best friends, to her love interests, each character adds to the uniqueness of the storyline and Jenna’s journey. Notably, there's heartthrob Matty McKibben, played by Beau Mirchoff, who often finds himself caught in a love triangle with Jenna. This dynamic relationship serves as one of the central storylines for the series.

Awkward.’s strength lies in its ability to tackle serious issues like identity crisis, relationship struggles, teen pressure, and the entire gamut of high school anxieties, while skilfully maintaining a comedic undertone. Each episode successfully delves into Jenna’s internal monologues and thought processes, coupled with her interactions with friends, family, and foes that reveal the complexities of a teenager’s life from a modern lens.

One of the signature elements of the show is its wonderfully tongue-in-cheek humor, captured beautifully with its snappy dialogue and sharp-witted humor. The dialogue often resonates with viewers for its sarcasm and quick wit, further enhancing the show’s relatable narrative. Jenna’s narration throughout the series provides a consistent voice that carries the viewer through the rollercoaster ride of high school, first love, heartbreak, and friendship.

The acting is also noteworthy, particularly Ashley Rickards, who really shines throughout the series. Rickards infuses Jenna with a mix of vulnerability and strength, demonstrating the trials and tribulations of growing up. The supporting cast also gives commendable performances, adding their own flair and charm that brings the Palos Hills High School to life.

Another aspect that sets Awkward. apart is its authentic feel. It does not romanticize high school life but paints a picture that is funny, raw and sometimes painful - just like the actual teenage years. Its brave approach to handling the pros and cons of a teenager’s life is commendable, and it does so without leaning towards melodrama or unrealistically glamorous depictions of high school.

Lastly, the show’s musical score deserves a mention as it plays very subtly yet significantly in creating moods, adding dimensions to scenes, and bringing out the undercurrents of emotions.

In summary, Awkward. is a blend of smart writing, impressive performances, and a knack for capturing real-life struggles, emotions, and victories of the teenage journey. Guiding viewers on a ride through the sometimes-dramatic, sometimes-satirical life of Jenna Hamilton in Palos Hills High School, the series is relatable, insightful and entertaining – a testament for being one of the notable shows in MTV’s line-up. For those looking for a series that strikes a perfect balance between humor and impactful narrative, Awkward. is definitely worth a watch.