SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE is a hidden gem that deserves to be admired in the light of day. For that reason, Esta and Aaron are writing a review for the entire series.
Why did you love this series so much?
Esta: The series tugged at my heart with laughter and tears. The characters felt real and believable. The writing took audiences through every imaginable aspect of grief, loss, friendship, finding one’s identity, change, growth, acceptance, and just plain silly moments that life presents every day if our eyes are open wide. The acting is brilliant. The singing is exceptional. I can’t stop thinking about it. I didn’t want it to end. I’m now an obsessed fan. I’ll stop there since I could keep gushing over this series.
Aaron: I 100% agree. I tuned into this show expecting to see a SCHITT’S CREEK-like comedy and got a musical, soulful “climb” as I watched each character deal with complex emotions. Furthermore, the lead character, Sam (Bridgett Everett), went through a similar experience of grief and feeling lost like I did. I never thought a show could so accurately depict the rise from the bottom of grief so perfectly.
How did you find out about SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE?
Aaron: Jeff Hiller beating Harrison Ford for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy at the Emmys. I thought there was no way they wouldn’t just give the award to Harrison Ford. So, that same night, I watched SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE and binged three episodes. I laughed, cried, and realized – I was all-in.
Esta: Same thing! The Emmys and Jeff Hiller’s win. Aaron then called me to say you need to watch this series. I was hooked after the first episode. I binged all three seasons in less than a week. It will be added to my top TV shows for the year. Unbelievably well done.
How about Bridgett Everett?!?!
Esta: I can’t say enough about Bridgett Everett. She has created a character that speaks to everyone’s soul. Her subtle yet powerful and poignant facial expressions and emotional arcs will tear viewers’ hearts wide open. She is truly amazing, and she accomplishes this without resorting to any tricks of the trade. She shines without make-up, a lavish wardrobe, or special lighting. She is the ultimate, authentic, real deal. And oh my, can she sing! The music interludes are not placed like a full-fledged musical. The songs Bridgett belts are masterfully conceived. This woman has pipes. If you don’t believe me, wait until you hear GLORIA and DON’T GIVE UP. It is no wonder the Critic’s Choice Award nominated Everett for Best Actress in a Comedy.
Aaron: People are sleeping on just how good Everett is as Sam. She authentically can say lines like, “There’s the sadness and then there’s her. The sadness isn’t going anywhere, but it isn’t her.” And yes, that line destroyed me. This is a twenty-one-episode acting masterclass for each actor within the series, but Everett is the leader who never backs down.
How about the rest of the cast?
Esta: Jeff Hiller as Joel is the bestie we all wish we had standing beside us every day. I would choose him as “my person.” His fabulous, understated acting skills are incredible. He adds creative energy to the ensemble mix and empowers the entire group to move forward, personifying excellence.
Aaron: Totally agree. His story arc is one of my favorites. The idea that you can have everything you want, yet still feel empty inside, was instantly relatable. I wanted to give him a big hug, GOOD WILL HUNTING style, and say, “It’s not your fault.”
Esta: Yes! Elsewhere, the entire cast, especially Tricia, Fred, Brad, Mary Jo, and Ed, are quirky and realistic in their portrayals of people we see on the street, never giving them a second look or thought. Shame on us. A big shout-out to the writers for helping me grow and raise my awareness level.
Aaron: I have two favorites out of that bunch. First is Fred (Murray Hill), who walks into a scene like he’s in a CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM episode. Then, Tricia (Mary Catherine Garrison). I initially thought she was just an angry sister to Sam, but I quickly realized the layers of her character and all that she has to endure in her journey.
Final Thoughts:
Esta: SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE was already presented with one of the arts’ most prestigious honors, the Peabody Award. I am not surprised. I am just happy it is being recognized. Well-deserved. Please put this series on your must-see viewing list. I promise, it will be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Aaron: As Joel says, “We deserve to be happy.” Well, audiences also “deserve to be happy” and reward themself with healing art like SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE.
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The entire series is available on HBO Max.
