The only thing I knew about this show prior to watching the first episode was that it had been prematurely cancelled by Netflix. After watching the entire first season, I can report that I wholeheartedly agree with this assessment. First and foremost, Tuca and Bertie is hysterically funny. The jokes fly so fast and furious, multiple viewings are definitely required to catch them all. At one point, I actually had to pause an episode to fully appreciate a joke because it was only on-screen for a fraction of a second. Personally, I love shows that are this dedicated to layering in the funny. Especially in 2020. We all need more funny in 2020.
The show revolves around the lives of the titular Tuca and Bertie, two best friends and former roommates. Their living situation is forced to change when Bertie decides to move in with her boyfriend, and let’s just say that Tuca’s complicated relationship with being the perennial third wheel was very relatable. Additionally, I’ve long maintained that the complexity of female friendships is a goldmine for storytellers, and Tuca and Bertie’s relationship is front and centre in this show. Specifically, it explores what happens when one friend moves on to a new stage in their life and the other feels left behind. I’m pretty sure that’s a situation everyone can relate to at some level.
But Tuca and Bertie is so much more than its jokes and relatability. It’s surreal, it’s subversive, and it’s absurd to a level that I’m not entirely sure how to describe. It’s also a very pointed commentary about the way women have to navigate workplace politics, sexual harassment, and mental health. All wrapped up in episodes featuring dead grandmother cakes, sex bug trials, and lakes filled with jelly. I told you it was absurd. It’s also brilliant. After finishing season one, I was thrilled to discover that Tuca and Bertie has been picked up for continuation by Adult Swim. New episodes will be coming in 2021, and I can’t wait.
Suggestions for artists I should check out? Please contact me with your ideas. I hope you enjoyed your daily helping of art!
