Thank God for this show. Really. During awards season I often slog through one really dark, depressing film after another. This show has been an incredibly delightful palate-cleanser each night as I work to pull out of the grey fog which descends after watching all the "meaningful" art films. Which is not to say this isn't meaningful, it is hugely so. Set in the late 1950s New York there are tremendous ripples about women's roles and a changing society but it is explored through the lens of a cheerful, super-smart, upbeat woman known as Midge Maisel. No, her life doesn't go as she planned. That seems to be a theme for all of the characters. But she has a can-do attitude and time and time again, makes lemonade out of life's lemons. This is one of those cases where the entire cast, the entire production, is magnificently brilliant. Every character adds something unique to the narrative and no expense seems to be spared in presenting the world of upper west side New York life. It creates a colorful shell within which the story feels very real, has significant depth, but is not depressing. Another huge part of the success of this series has to be the writing. It is not only funny but delivered at a mad clip. I dare you to try and do anything while watching this show ... you would miss a dozen plot-points. Rachel Brosnahan has received due credit for her portrayal of this feisty, feminine woman but my vote will be going to Alex Borstein whose "Susie Myerson" is unforgettable. They say that a supporting actor award should go to someone who fills a role so completely you can't imagine anyone else doing the role. Such is the case with Ms. Borstein, whose facial expressions alone have sent me into laughing fits. Well-imagined, perfectly executed, definitely one of the smartest new series to come along in a good long while. This is a show I look forward to watching, time and time again.
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