Shrill

Shrill, initially aired by Hulu in 2019 and ran through 2021 is a ground-breaking television series that advocates for body positivity through bold, comical, and insightful storytelling. Based on the memoir "Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman" by Lindy West, the show takes viewers through the life of the main character, Annie Easton, inviting them to glimpse her journey of self-acceptance and overall transformation into an assertive woman amid societal pressures and personal challenges.

Aidie Bryant, a Saturday Night Live cast member who is no stranger to high-quality comedy, essayed the role of Annie Easton flawlessly. Annie is a plus-sized young woman working as a journalist in Portland, Oregon. She finds herself stuck in a world brimming with rigid beauty standards and struggles to push back against the unsolicited advice of coworkers, strangers, and family, all highlighting that she is not thin enough. This challenges her self-esteem and self-worth, often making her doubt her potential.

Throughout the series, viewers get to join Annie on her quest for self-improvement, but not the kind of improvement the world expects from her. It's not a story about losing weight to gain acceptance - rather, it's about growing stronger, bolder, owning up to her flaws, and refusing to let societal norms dictate her worth or limit her potential. Annie does not wish to assimilate with society's definition of beauty, but instead craves respect, acceptance, and love from the world that too often tends to overlook her.

Shrill beautifully amplifies the theme of body positivity, with a strong emphasis on loving and accepting one’s body regardless of shape or size. However, that’s not the only card on the table. The show subtly but powerfully touches upon several sensitive issues, including toxic relationships, job discrimination, and age-old beauty standards and expectations. It gives an equal weightage to Annie's career struggles in a condescending work environment, where she is often overshadowed by her male counterparts.

Annie’s relationships, too, offer thoughtful commentary. She’s involved with a commitment-phobic boyfriend, Ryan, played by Luka Jones, who appreciates her but often tries to keep her a secret. But throughout the series, she learns to stand up for herself. This relationship acts as a springboard, launching her into a series of self-revelations and changes.

Patti Harrison and John Cameron Mitchell play the roles of Ruthie and Gabe, adding another layer of hilarity to the show. These characters and their interactions with Annie represent the frustrating individuals one might face in their professional lives, who further complicate Annie's journey towards self-acceptance and success.

Notably, Shrill's unique narrative doesn't micro-manage its characters, instead allowing them to breathe, make mistakes, grow and learn at their pace. It doesn't shy away from showing Annie's trials and tribulations or from revealing that her journey is not a linear process. Through its frank and refreshing sense of humor, the series retains the ability to surprise viewers, striking a careful balance between comedy and sentiment.

In conclusion, Shrill is not just a show; it is a movement, a protest against body shaming, and a story about standing up for oneself. Aidy Bryant's Annie mastering the art of turning deaf ear to society's body-shaming comments, reclaiming her confidence and refusing to be treated as a lesser being is an inspiring story indeed. The series portrays a wide range of complexities faced by women in society but manages to keep its audience engaged with its wit, humor, and relatability. If you're looking for a breath of fresh air in the world of scripted drama with an imperative take on such profound themes, Shrill is a must-watch. It leaves viewers with an empowering message, affirming that one’s value is not measured by their waistline. It emphasizes self-love, determination, and courage instead. It's a compelling celebration of body positivity, paving a path in tv history.