PEN15

PEN15 is an original Hulu series that stars Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle, two talented actresses and best friends both in real-life and on screen. This duo has impeccably captured the alarmingly accurate, hilarious, and sometimes cringe-inducing spirit of adolescence. This quirky comedy coming-of-age satire first premiered in 2019 and has been a favorite among viewers since then due to its nostalgic tone, relatable storylines, and heartfelt humor.

PEN15 narrates the often-awkward journey through middle-school as seen from the perspective of the 13-year-old versions of Maya and Anna, played by the 30-something actresses themselves. By conceiving a captivating, sometimes disturbingly precise snapshot of middle-school life during the early 2000s, the show uncovers the inner world of middle-school girls in a manner seldom seen before on the screen.

Unlike many classic tales of teenage troubles, PEN15 specifically focuses on the experiences of young girls transitioning from childhood to teenage years, navigating volatile friendships, first crushes, the advent of puberty, family problems, and a rapidly changing self-image. The show carves its unique niche by highlighting the nitty-gritty of female adolescence and fostering empathy for everyone who has ever been a teenager.

Set on the backdrop of suburban America in the year 2000, PEN15 highlights the millennial generation—those who grew up with dial-up internet, AIM, and the dawn of boy bands. Costumes, set designs, and even the lingo take older viewers on a nostalgic journey back to the past and enable younger audiences to have a chuckle at the trends of the bygone era.

The characters of Maya and Anna are as real as they are vivid. They bear a distinctive charm that resonates with the layered experiences of their viewers. Maya Ishii-Peters, played by Maya Erskine, is the daughter of a Japanese mother and a white father, an aspiring performer with a love for witchcraft, play-acting, and wearing unconventional attire. Anna Kone, played by Anna Konkle, lives in the shadow of her parents looming divorce and feels the constant pressure to be the peacekeeper, the ideal daughter and friend, even when it costs her personal happiness.

Despite the unconventional casting of adults playing their younger selves around actual adolescent co-stars, the delivery of Erskine and Konkle is so genuine that viewers quickly suspend disbelief. The actresses manage to portray their characters' teenage awkwardness and enthusiasm impeccably without resorting to mockery or minimizing the very real emotions of their adolescent characters.

One of the vital strengths of PEN15 is its unfiltered approach towards the impact of puberty on young girls – an aspect often brushed under the carpet in mainstream TV shows. The series does not shy away from the uncomfortable reality and consequences of entering puberty, acknowledging the profound moments of embarrassment, confusion, and curiosity that come with it.

Simultaneously, the heart and soul of the show stem from the deeply authentic and touching depiction of female friendship. The bond between Maya and Anna is complex, volatile, tender, and loyal, a thread woven with countless moments of shared happiness, disappointments, fights, reconciliations, and shared secrets. This nuanced projection of friendship, coupled with the protagonist's individual growth, form the crux of the narrative.

Apart from its perfect blend of comedy and drama, PEN15 also excels at the serious examination of critical issues such as racism, classism, divorce, and even issues of adolescence like bullying and navigating one's sexuality. These themes are treated with thoughtful sensitivity that only adds more layers to the show's overall appeal.

PEN15 is a daring show, completely original in concept, unapologetically raw, and emotionally resonant. It is a testament to the painful yet entertaining process of growing up, creating a captivating blend of humor, nostalgia, and stark realism. The series perfects the balancing act between farcical elements and poignant moments, delivering a deeply gratifying viewing experience.

The show's name, PEN15, a practical joke that preteens used to trick their friends into joining a fake "PEN15 club" only to find out that it makes the word 'penis,' cleverly mirrors the humor, the awkwardness, and the provocations of adolescence that the series illustrates. Altogether, PEN15 is a remarkable TV show that reminds us of an important lesson; that even the most challenging periods of our lives can come with intense emotions, laughable moments, and invaluable lessons about growing up.