As a former educator, I found THE CHAIR to be a humorous, fast-paced, realistic view of the power struggle all women still have within the workplace. It covered the trials and tribulations of senior and younger women, but especially those of color.
The cast is stellar, with Sandra Oh as THE CHAIR of the English department in a small college. Enrollment is down in those classes dealing with Chaucer and classic literature. I loved how the writers brought the beauty of the written word to life, all within the elements of modern life. It made me remember what it means to be a teacher, to make a difference in young people’s lives, and help them to think critically and creatively. Jay Duplass, Holland Taylor, and Nana Mensah were fabulous professors as well.
THE CHAIR also dealt with issues of cultural difference. It felt like I was enrolled in school again but in a really good way. It is important to have a show that pushes our buttons and helps us solve situations that grow out of hand. I am invested. I want to pick up MOBY DICK again, but most important of all, I can’t wait for Season 2.
THE CHAIR is available to stream on Netflix.
