Barbelle

Barbelle is a compelling Canadian television series that first aired in 2017 on Syndicado TV. The series follows the highs and lows of two Toronto-based pop stars, Veronica Vale and Alice O'Hara, who collectively make up the popular music duo, Barbelle. Despite their success and searing chemistry on stage, Veronica and Alice struggle to maintain their personal relationships off-stage, especially as they deal with Veronica's recalcitrant ex-boyfriend and the pressures that come with their overnight fame.

One of the defining aspects of Barbelle is its lucid portrayal of the music industry within the underrepresented rollercoaster context of the digital age. Issues of empowerment, identity, feminism, and the exploration of queer relationships get masterfully woven into the complex fabric of this show. The series is as much a love letter to the music industry's independent sector as it is a stark commentary on the pains and pleasures of fame in the internet age.

Both leads display commendable performances, affirming a full range of their acting skills. Veronica, portrayed by Gwenlyn Cumyn, is a headstrong character who has a very clear vision for her music. She’s confident, volatile, and occasionally indulges in self-destructive behavioral patterns that threaten to destabilize the duo's professional relationship. On the other hand, Alice, played by Karen Knox, portrays more self-doubt, anxiety, and has a contrasting approach towards their music, creating interesting dynamics between the two lead characters.

The supporting cast too provides depth to the storyline. While they may not occupy as much screen time as the central characters, they nonetheless play pivotal roles in shaping the narrative threads. The series delves into the intricacies of creating music, the trials of dealing with stardom, and the complexities of personal relationships in an industry often noted for its relentless pace and seeming indifference to personal life.

An exciting element of the show is its generous use of original music. The series brilliantly employs original songs and performances by the duo to progressively reveal character depths and plot turns, often serving as the backbone around which the overall narrative unfolds. This not only makes Barbelle an appealing choice for music lovers but also adds a unique storytelling twist that sets it apart from other drama series.

Another striking feature of Barbelle is its use of Toronto as a backdrop. The series meticulously exploits the city's urban landscape – from its bustling music venues, elegant condos, hip cafés, and leafy parks to its winding lanes – and crafts a stunning visual narrative that harmoniously makes the city itself an integral part of the story.

Barbelle also takes clear strides in representation by encapsulating a queer narrative within the music industry, unabashed in its portrayal of complex, non-stereotypical LGBTQ+ characters and relationships. Its exploration of diverse sexual identities, fluidity, queer relationships and LGBTQ+ themes is both bold and commendable, earning the series praise for its persisted efforts toward the representation and inclusivity of queer narratives within mainstream television media.

The show’s creators, Karen Knox and Gwenlyn Cumyn, who also play the lead roles, have woven a veritable blend of drama, music, and heartfelt emotion into Barbelle's narrative. The series has garnered a strong fan base, signalling a new tone in independent television production. The blend of artistic vision, raw dialogue, complicated characters, and a powerful soundtrack puts Barbelle as a refreshing addition to the stage of Canadian television.

In summary, Barbelle is a series that offers a well-rounded blend of music, drama, and complex characters dealing with personal and professional challenges. It seamlessly manoeuvres the highs and lows of life in the music industry, constantly displaying the friction of maintaining a successful public image while wrestling with personal demons. If you're a fan of music-laden drama and strong female characters, Barbelle is a series that promises to intrigue and entertain.