Merli

Merlí is a compelling and thought-provoking television series from Catalonia, produced by TV3, that aired from 2015 to 2018. The drama successfully hooks its audience with its comprehensive exploration of philosophy, relationships, and the dynamics of a modern-day classroom.

The eponymous character, Merlí Bergeron, is a recently unemployed, middle-aged philosophy teacher who, following a series of unfortunate events, finds himself living with his estranged teenage son, Bruno, in Barcelona. Merlí is no ordinary professor. His teaching methods are eccentric and unorthodox, yet highly effective at attracting his students' attention and encouraging them to think for themselves. While his unconventional style instigates enthusiasm for philosophy in many, it also sparks conflict between Merlí and the more traditionally inclined faculty at the Ángel Guimerà school.

Much of the drama's appeal lies in its episodic exploration of various philosophical theories, each episode drawing its title from a renowned philosopher such as Nietzsche, Schopenhauer, or Plato. The writers expertly integrate enlightening philosophical discourse into the script, making it accessible and engaging for the audience, regardless of their familiarity with philosophy.

The relatable settings, involving both the school and Merlí’s private life, play a crucial role in the series. While the relationships between teachers, students, and parents are at the series' heart, we also notice how Merlí navigates his romantic life, single-parenting, and friendship. The result is a concoction of comedic moments and profound insights that highlight the everyday philosophy we encounter in our lives.

The character of Merlí is masterfully portrayed by actor Francesc Orella. Despite being deeply flawed, Merlí is indispensable to his students, termed as ‘Peripatetics’ - after Aristotle’s followers. This group includes the introverted and sensitive Pol, the rebellious rebellious Tânia, the flamboyant and openly gay Berta, the homely and reserved Joan, the sheltered Mònica, Ivan with principal-induced fear, the uptight and boys contrary Marc, and Oliver, the professor's son. Each character has a unique temperament, background, and relationship with their peers, making them three-dimensional and relatable.

The underlying themes of the show question societal norms and stimulate debate about the different aspects of humanity. Merlí’s lessons challenge students (and by extension, the audience) to question established beliefs, ponder their identities, purpose, and desire, and confront their fears and prejudices. This engagement with philosophy also extends to Bruno’s relationship with his father, as they grapple with their complicated familial bond. Each episode is a gamut of emotions mirroring the unpredictability of life itself.

Balancing humor with drama and philosophy, Merlí serves as a unique manifestation of “edutainment” that holds its viewers captive. It effectively illuminates not only the wisdom of renowned philosophers but also the philosophy intrinsic in daily life. The show’s dedication to showcasing diversity in terms of characters’ sexual orientation, gender, socio-economic backgrounds, and personalities further enriches the narrative landscape.

Another noteworthy aspect of Merlí is its commitment to the use of Catalan language. Originally broadcasted in Catalan, it’s a powerful testament to TV3's commitment to uplifting and promoting regional languages on popular media platforms.

Over its three seasons run, the show manages to push boundaries, tackle taboo topics, and uplift marginalized voices while never straying away from its core aim of inspiring philosophical thought. Critical and commercial success lead to the creation of its spin-off, Merlí: Sapere Aude.

In conclusion, Merlí isn’t merely a television show but a philosophical journey that stimulates thought, encourages introspection, and highlights the importance of philosophy in our daily lives. It stands out with its distinctive integration of philosophy into a high school setting and hits home with its relatable exploration of relationships, personal growth, and societal dynamics. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for an intellectually stimulating series that packs a punch.