By Remy Bailard
Arts Editor
The series “Firefly Lane” warms viewers with a complex and telling plotline of an undying friendship through a heartfelt coming-of-age story.
The series adds a fresh complexity to the long list of Netflix originals by incorporating several life stages in the storyline. The exceptional acting and well-developed characters drive the series to become an amazingly overwhelming success.
Released to Netflix on Feb. 3, “Firefly Lane” was created by Maggie Friedman and is based on the novel series of the same name by Kristin Hannah. The 10-episode series stars Katherine Heigl playing Tully Hart, and Sarah Chalke playing Kate Mularkey.
The series follows the story of two inseparable best friends, Tully and Kate, as they make their way through several milestones in life. The two grow together as they move on from their awkward, adolescent stage into a newfound maturity and having to cope with a series of real-world problems. Their growth only strengthens their unmatched bond and fills viewers with joy as they see their friendship greatly progress.
The variety in life stages adds a much-needed complexity to the series, bringing it the sense of maturity that many coming-of-age stories lack. The series wavers between Tully and Kate’s teenage, early adulthood and mid-life years that adds a unique aspect to the storyline. The broken-up structure intrigues viewers as several sub-plotlines unravel in each stage of life.
The intricacy of the character Tully Hart is what gives the series the wow-factor it needs to be a success. Her traumatic past ties into her later years and allows the audience to grow alongside her as she faces many challenges as a result of her upbringing. Hart never sticks with one persona, and her shift from witty and overly-confident to soft and raw makes her unpredictable and fills viewers with an unfound curiosity.
The acting from Heigl and Chalke adds a profound reality to the script and brings out a lasting emotional response from viewers. Their ability to form a strong emotional connection with the audience makes each scene feel more relatable. The on-set bond between the two brings their friendship in the show to life and stops the series from feeling too scripted.
The costumes throughout the series portray each decade showcased magnificently. Tully and Kate’s teenage years especially, which take place in the ’80s, incorporate the vibrancy and classic style and is refreshing, despite being released in modern time. The style brings a feeling of nostalgia to the series that ties in perfectly as the plot is based on thinking back to childhood memories.
While ending the series in a twisted and shocking traumatic event, “Firefly Lane” definitely doesn’t fail to keep viewers on their toes. The series unravels and drops subtle hints in each episode of what will take place in the final episodes, drawing viewers in and compelling them to keep watching. The hints are just discrete enough to not be viewed as hints until the audience sees the final strew of events, adding a mysterious element to the series and bringing it full-circle.
The complexity in both the plotline and actors is an invigorating aspect of the series and draws viewers in wanting more. The heartwarming reality of “Firefly Lane” brings emotions alive and makes the series a must-see.
Released on Feb. 3, “Firefly Lane” is rated TV-MA and is available for streaming with a subscription to Netflix.
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