Mytho

Mytho, a French dramatic comedy series produced by Arte, aired from 2019 to 2021, and showcased a unique and intriguing premise centered around a white lie that spirals out of control, ultimately transforming the mundane life of its central character into a rollercoaster of events.

The plot revolves around Elvira, a loving wife, a doting mother of three, and a part-time office worker, who epitomizes the embodiment of an everyday woman juggling her multifaceted roles. Despite her unceasing efforts, Elvira finds herself overlooked, unappreciated, and taken for granted by her immediate family, who are utterly engrossed in their own lives, paying little attention to her toil and dedication.

In an act of desperation and frustration, Elvira concocts a lie designed to draw some much-needed attention and empathy from her family. She claims to have a terminal illness, a myth which was thought to be harmless, yet it progressively spirals into a tangled web of deceptions that holds the potential to tear her family apart, or potentially bring them closer together.

Mytho masterfully introduces a spectrum of characters with intricate personalities that influence the unfolding of the series' story. Elvira's husband, Patrick, straight out of a mid-life crisis, is an obsessive-compulsive swimmer seeking solace from the approach of old age. Their two adolescent children, Virgil and Lea, provide a true-to-life depiction of teenage angst, rebellion, and confusion, exacerbated by the supposed impending loss of their mother. With the youngest, and not-so-innocent Ange, the family presents an ensemble hourglass of ego-centricities wanting to turn around for Elvira once the harrowing diagnosis is revealed.

The intriguing storyline blends serious issues with elements of humor in a serene suburban setting. The series explores the paradoxical effects of its lead's lie not only on her immediate family but also on her coworkers, friends, and neighbors as the malign rumor spreads through Elvira's small community.

Contrary to the name, Mytho steps far beyond the superficial layer of the 'myth' in its narrative. It is as much an exploration of human relationships, family dynamics, and individual personalities as it is about the central lie itself. Throughout the series, viewers can observe the characters grappling with their selfish motivations amidst an atmosphere of fear and empathy, leading to a transformation that might at times appear to be bitter, yet bears the promise of an eventual, sweet change. It is a tale of growth, acceptance, and evolution in the face of fears, real and imaginary.

The series also tackles the theme of identity, as characters are provoked to redefine their perceptions of themselves and each other in light of Elvira's presumed illness. It tips a hat to the transformative power of empathy and vulnerability in repairing and reinforcing personal relationships.

The show creator, Anne Berest, brings in a quirky yet pleasing balance of humor and sentiment. While the premise might sound somber, the execution is anything but. Several humorous situations arise from the unusual predicament in which Elvira finds herself. The jocularity is often underpinned with a subtle irony, a gentle reminder of the consequences of even the most well-intended pretenses.

The success of Mytho lies not in its premise but in its rich and engaging character development. The viewers can see themselves resonating with the characters, watch them grow and change, witnessing their lives being turned upside-down and being unable to stay indifferent. It is a portrayal of not just a family in crisis but of individuals seeking to understand and empathize with each other.

Mytho isn’t just a show about a lie that spirals out of control but is a testament to how deceivingly simple choices can lead to complex consequences, and how sometimes the most catalytic changes come from the most unexpected places. Watch it for its blend of drama and comedy, its relatable characters, and for the unique narrative that plays upon an intricate balance of truth and deceit. Plus, the engaging storyline promises to keep you hooked, episode after episode. Ultimately, Mytho is a beautifully constructed narrative which, in its own peculiar way, teaches us the importance of being heard, loved, and appreciated.