REVIEW: Relying on ‘Girlfriends’ through ups and downs
Logo: Courtesy of Acorn TV / Provided with permission.
Girlfriends, the new TV show from the United Kingdom and now available on DVD from Acorn TV, stars three British actresses who have dominated stages, TV screens and cinemas for years. Zoë Wanamaker, Phyllis Logan and Miranda Richardson hardly need introductions for British TV fans, and having all three together for this delectable series is a real treat.
The three play characters who are best friends. They have been through many trials and tribulations, and the present moment when the show begins is no exception. Linda (Logan, of Downton Abbey) loses her husband in a horrible tragedy aboard a cruise ship. That bit of shocking revelation sets the show up as a full on drama, but much of Girlfriends’ enjoyment can be found in the good-hearted fun amongst these besties.
Gail (Wanamaker, of My Family) welcomes her son home from jail in the premiere episode of series one. They make up an excuse that he has been on business in Thailand in order to hide the details of his arrest for receiving stolen cars.
Sue (Richardson, of Damage and Tom & Viv) plays the features editor of a magazine that is not making its financial numbers. This means Sue is losing clout in the newsroom and needs to face the changing demographics of a younger staff and younger readership.
Each of these three central characters has tremendous hurt in life, whether it’s Linda being a new widow, Gail dealing with her son or Sue trying to fit in a world that demands youth. However, with all of the difficulties hanging in the air, the three find time for one another and constantly rely on their friendship to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
The first series of the show features six episodes, running a little more than 45 minutes each. There’s enough time for the performers to showcase their obvious acting skills. Richardson has the right balance of frenzy and fast pacing for her hurried role, while Logan is nearly unrecognizable as Linda, both because of her fine acting ability and also how different the role is compared to her many others, including Mrs. Hughes on Downton Abbey.
Wanamaker may be the best of the three. She’s acting royalty and has regularly appeared on stages in London and New York. She layers Gail with a great deal of reality and fortitude, despite the challenges she has with her son and ailing mother. A lot is put on her plate, and yet Gail makes due, constantly pushing forward in a quieter way when compared to her two best friends.
Girlfriends, created by Kay Mellor, is not earth-shattering, but it’s a lot of fun and a wonderful showcase for excellent British talent.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Girlfriends, series one, is now available on DVD from Acorn TV. Starring Zoë Wanamaker, Phyllis Logan and Miranda Richardson. Created by Kay Mellor. Click here for more information.
