where to watch Seasons 1-2 available on Netflix.
when to watch Quite simply, when you want to laugh.
tl;dr Derry Girls’ unique setting combined with the quirky, loveable characters’ hilarious antics makes it an exceptionally entertaining comedy.
you should note Has been confirmed for Season 3! All twelve episodes written by a woman.
The best comedies marry laughter and ridiculous antics with sharp moments of poignancy. They strive to do a little more than just make us giggle.
I think that is why I absolutely fell in love with Derry Girls. I watched the first episode on my lunch break at work, not expecting to be particularly impressed and looking for an easy laugh. Two days later I had binged all 6 episodes and found myself desperately missing Erin, Clare, Michelle, Orla, and even James.
My first reaction to the show: it’s a lot. The accents were so foreign to me, I quickly realized I needed captions. Each character is exceptionally exaggerated and a little bit insane. Understated or subtle are definitely not words to describe this show. And yet, there was something absolutely captivating about the story of these 5 high schoolers navigating their youthful struggles as they lived amidst violence and conflict.
a unique setting
See, the show is set in 1992, during “the Troubles,” an ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland. I am no Irish history expert, so I recommend you do some googling if you want to learn more. Here’s one extensive overview I found.
Despite the volatile setting, the show is absolutely hilarious. So funny in fact, that I won’t describe any of the things that happen because I don’t want to spoil a single joke. From Erin’s snooty, know-it-all attitude to Michelle’s obsession with boys and smoking, to everyone’s constant teasing of James, and even to Erin’s absolutely ridiculous parents, every character in the show is incredibly… quirky. Oh, and did I mention Barristan Selmy, for you Game of Thrones fans, is Erin’s eccentric “grandda”?
This hilarity is coupled with touching moments and frequent mentions of the violence around them, never quite letting you forget the difficult situation these kids are growing up in. This juxtaposition creates a very engaging contrast, elevating Derry Girls from a basic high school comedy to an absolute joy to watch.
If you’re looking for some interesting comedy to spice up your life, or really if you just want to laugh, Derry Girls is your guy—er, girl.
Once you’ve binged Seasons 1 and 2, check out this interesting, SPOILER FILLED, article about James’ character and toxic masculinity!
I watched this on your rec and loved it! I can’t wait for season 3.