Me and My Grandma

Me and My Grandma is a prime example of YouTube Red’s foray into the original programming space. The scripted comedy series, released in 2017, is a delightful modern day wisdom-versus-youth saga that sees two generations come together in the glitzy atmosphere of Hollywood, trying to make their mark in this fast-paced world.

The series centers around a young woman named Janey, portrayed exuberantly by YouTube personality Eva Gutowski, who is also popularly known to her followers as MyLifeAsEva. Janey is an ambitious, driven, and slightly naive fresh graduate who drags her feisty, candid, and overtly sassy grandmother, aptly named Grandma, to Hollywood with dreams of making it big as an actress. Rhea Perlman brings Grandma to life, endowing her with a unique panache that is undeniably infectious.

Me and My Grandma operates smoothly as a single-camera comedy, throwing the audience headfirst into Janey and Grandma’s comical misadventures as they navigate the tricky waters of Hollywood. Sharp and witty, it brings the classic fish-out-of-water scenario to life but with a unique spin of adding a duo disparate in their ages and experiences.

Janey assumes that Hollywood is the place where dreams come to fruition, serenaded all her life by the narratives of rags-to-riches stories that populate popular culture. However, Grandma, with her life-wisdom and a tongue as sharp as a knife, has more realistic expectations, at least at first. Seemingly out of her comfort zone, she's dragged along for the ride but soon discovers her own aims and passions.

This juxtaposition of two people at different stages in their lives, combined with their shared aspiration to attain fame, creates a fascinating dynamic. The show explores what it means to chase one’s dreams and how those dreams might change across generations, maintaining a lighthearted tone throughout.

Apart from the central pair, Me and My Grandma also introduces a host of other colorful characters that make the portrayal of Hollywood even more entertaining. From haughty movie stars to demanding bosses, ambitious dreamers to skeptical roommates, the show has a wide range of characters that add depth to the storyline.

In terms of storytelling, the show skillfully balances the different shades of comedy while ensuring at its heart remains the relationship between the duo. Their camaraderie is not devoid of conflict; they have their fair share of disagreements and arguments. But the series consistently underscores their bond, beautifully exploring the antics, tensions, and changing dynamics of their relationship amidst the chaos of Hollywood.

The series is written by Eva Gutowski and Annie Stamell, and their knowledge of the online world (with Gutowksi's experience as a vlogger) gives the storyline a unique touch. The concept of internet fame and its influence is touched upon, contextualizing the series within the contemporary digital culture of today's media-consuming generation.

Given the context, the show inevitably delves into the theme of generational gap, exploring different perspectives where youth meets age, and modernity meets tradition. The show doesn't shy away from highlighting the reality of ageism, especially in Hollywood, and the difficulties faced by aspiring actors in a cutthroat industry. But it does all this while maintaining a light and humorous undertone.

In many ways, Me and My Grandma mirrors the trials and tribulations of modern life. Its humor is relatable, commentary sharp, and spirit uplifting. It encourages its audience to chase their dreams but also reminds them of the realities of life.

Me and My Grandma definitely make for an enjoyable watch, offering a generous dose of humor, drama, and life lessons. Its delightful storytelling, highlighted by the endearing chemistry between Gutowski and Perlman, will surely enchant viewers. Whether you're a fan of Gutowski's YouTube channel or new to her work, this series provides an engaging spectacle of wit, humor, and charm, all wrapped in the grandeur of Hollywood. Perfect for a binge-watch session, Me and My Grandma on YouTube Red is an entertaining ode to dream chasers of all ages.