Fleabag / Miranda

There’s been a big movement in the industry to show ‘real’ women full of flaws, questionable decision making, and ‘unlikability’. While it might be a horrific realization to men across the nation, women rejoice and breathe a collective sigh of relief. FINALLY, we are being portrayed in the media for qualities other than utter pleasantness! Phoebe Waller-Bridge writes and stars as Fleabag - a modern, single, insatiable British gal dating in London. We quickly form opinions after we see her delight in shoplifting. We watch her journey of theft, expert level negotiating, sex, and a puppet-like on and off again boyfriend whom she navigates through turmoil for her own amusement. 

The show is known for its flawless breaking of the fourth wall. This is when a character acknowledges the presence of a camera. Waller-Bridge is able to sweetly charm a suitor, deliver some contradictive sharp wit while she burns the lens, then snaps back into seduction with ease. She is an actress incredibly full of depth. She possesses an important trait every actor should strive for - surprise. Waller-Bridge pulls many mugs and faces at camera. While expressive, she manages to control even the slightest muscles in her face. The editing in Fleabag is a style worth studying. Quick cutaways and sharp edits keep the comedy feeling fresh and unforced.

I heard on the ‘gram that ‘Miranda’ is what some refer to as the originator of the BBC quirky quick-witted lens burner. So in an attempt to learn more I just got sucked into her 2009 sitcom on Hulu. And I must say, Miranda has me laughing more than Fleabag! While I do enjoy Fleabag, I think I’ll explore Miranda a little more….Miranda Hart looks straight into the camera to plead with viewers, desperately seeking encouragement during moments of social awkwardness. The live studio audience cackles at the various prat falls and silly antics of a single woman living alone and desperate to date. Miranda is at the butt of every joke. Like any great comedian, she puts the audience at ease by immediately poking fun at herself, her size, and overall appearance. Miranda’s show has me hooked. I’ve revisited it more than Fleabag, in fact. I can’t believe how much I’m actually cracking up at! I can see how this show would inspire a more polished take…

Both shows are fabulous! But as I’ve said before, what kind of American would I be if I wasn’t pitting women against each other?? Overall, I’d simply categorize Fleabag as a bit naughty and Miranda as a bit nice. Now go watch both and report back!