Bigger

Bigger is an American comedy-drama television series that originally aired on BET in 2019 to 2021. This show, created by Felischa Marye, is a refreshing and unparalleled addition to the sphere of TV shows focusing on friendship, love, career aspirations, and personal growth, putting ordinary lives under the lens of humor and poignant storytelling.

The series is set in the vibrant and diverse city of Atlanta - notably known as a hub of youthful energy, entertainment, and cultural diversity. Bigger follows the lives of five thirty-something, college friends who grapple with the monotonous trap that their lives have seemingly become. Imbued with the untamed spirit of Atlanta, this witty comedy-drama emphasizes the universal worries and aspirations of growing up and being successful in a manner that is both authentic and relatable.

The five protagonists, namely Lane, Deon, Veronica, Tracey, and Vince, form an intriguing ensemble of characters that embody a range of eccentricities, dreams, and dilemmas. The sudden death of a college acquaintance pushes this group of friends to reevaluate their lives and stimulates them to seek something 'Bigger.' The title of the series is an amusing nod to this overarching theme of ceaseless aspiration and the desire for a life that transcends routine and mediocrity. It paints a meticulously detailed portrait of each character, examining their identities, relationships, work lives, desires, and inner thoughts, often juxtapositioning them against the backdrop of their thrilling urban environment.

Lane, a charming boutique owner, is the central character around which the narrative unfolds. She's on a quest to achieve more than just “enough” from her life, while still keeping pace with her relationships. Deon, on the other hand, is a charming and outgoing real estate agent aiming to make it big. Then there's Tracey, the practical and career-driven one of the bunch who happens to be a medical professional. Vince, Lane's boyfriend, is the typical cool guy, pursuing a career in radio but often stifled by his insecurities. Veronica, the ever-savvy financial advisor of the group, is a go-getter who knows how to play hard and work harder.

The series explores these characters' lives in detail, and the non-linear narrative structure helps enhance the depth and complexity of each character. Their strengths, weaknesses, motivations, and dreams are all highlighted, presenting them as realistic and relatable individuals grappling with their own unique challenges, insecurities, and ambitions.

Bigger successfully captures the struggles of adulthood, relationships, and career aspirations, while effortlessly maintaining an undercurrent of comedy. It isn't afraid to delve into socio-political issues, reflecting the evolving dynamics of African-American lives and struggles in a contemporary urban setting. The comedic tone of the series serves to balance the gravity of these issues, keeping the narrative engaging and light-hearted.

The vibrant color palette, crisp cinematography, and carefully curated soundtrack add another layer of depth to the series. It beautifully encapsulates the city's expansive culture, music, and energy, creating a setting that is as lively as its characters.

The performances by the ensemble cast are commendable, bringing the show's spirit to life with their distinctive portrayals. Tanisha Long (Lane), Chase Anthony (Deon), Angell Conwell (Veronica), Tristen Winger (Vince), and Rashad Frett (Tracey) all add to Bigger's charm with their compelling performances.

Bigger offers a fresh perspective on the themes of love, work, and friendship in the pursuit of a better life. Each episode unravels a new layer of the characters' lives, aspirations, and fears, painting a detailed picture of their journey and growth. Its gentle humor, rich characters, compelling storyline, and the Atlanta backdrop make it an enticing watch for those who appreciate thoughtful storytelling that reflects modern life's complexities and reality.

Bigger is an exploration of the journey to 'bigger and better,' uniquely delivering the quintessence of life, love, and ambition in an urban setting. This BET series takes you on a multi-faceted ride with its five leading friends as they navigate their way, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a layered and engaging comedy-drama.