“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” is an American period comedy-drama television series created by Amy Sherman-Palladino. It premiered on Amazon Prime Video in March 2017. The show is set in the late 1950s and early 1960s in New York City and follows Miriam “Midge” Maisel, portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan, a housewife who discovers her knack for stand-up comedy after her seemingly perfect life takes an unexpected turn.
Plot Details: Miriam “Midge” Maisel has a life that appears to be the epitome of perfection: a supportive husband, Joel, who works a corporate job but aspires to be a stand-up comedian, two children, and an elegant Upper West Side apartment. Her life takes a dramatic turn when Joel confesses he’s having an affair and leaves her. Devastated, Midge drunkenly gets on stage at a club where Joel performed his acts and delivers an impromptu, yet remarkably natural and hilarious, stand-up set about her current misfortunes.
Her performance catches the attention of Susie Myerson, a gruff employee at the club, who becomes Midge’s manager. Despite societal expectations and the pressures of her conservative Jewish family, Midge decides to pursue a career in stand-up comedy, a male-dominated field. The series follows Midge’s journey in the stand-up comedy world, exploring themes of gender roles, feminism, and family dynamics against the backdrop of the 1950s and 60s.
Supporting Characters and Themes:
- Joel Maisel: Midge’s husband, whose infidelity and subsequent departure catalyze Midge’s comedic career. Joel struggles with his own identity and ambitions throughout the series.
- Susie Myerson: Midge’s manager, who is committed to Midge’s success and navigates the challenges of the entertainment industry with her.
- Abe and Rose Weissman: Midge’s parents, who grapple with their daughter’s unconventional life choices against their traditional values and expectations.
- The Series Themes: “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” delves into issues of female empowerment and independence, the pursuit of one’s passions against societal expectations, and the complexities of familial and romantic relationships. The show is also noted for its sharp wit, vibrant characters, and meticulous period detail, capturing the essence of New York City during the 1950s and 60s.
Making of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”
- Creation and Inspiration: Amy Sherman-Palladino, inspired by the early stand-up comedy scene and her own father’s experiences, wanted to create a show centered around a woman finding her voice in the male-dominated world of comedy. The character of Midge Maisel is not directly based on any single comedian but is inspired by the trailblazing women of the era.
- Casting and Performances: Rachel Brosnahan was cast as Midge Maisel and has been universally praised for her performance. The ensemble cast, including Tony Shalhoub, Alex Borstein, Michael Zegen, and Marin Hinkle, also received accolades for their performances.
- Production Design: The show is known for its authentic portrayal of New York City in the 1950s and 60s, from the detailed sets and locations to the period-accurate costumes. The production team put significant effort into recreating the era, contributing to the show’s immersive experience.
- Music and Cinematography: The series features a jazz-infused soundtrack fitting the time period, enhancing the overall mood and authenticity. The cinematography and direction have been praised for capturing the energy of New York City and the dynamism of Midge’s journey.
Critics and Viewers Response
- Critical Acclaim: Critics have lauded “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” for its witty writing, stellar performances, and its vibrant depiction of the era. Rachel Brosnahan’s portrayal of Midge Maisel has been particularly highlighted, along with the show’s ability to tackle gender dynamics and societal expectations with humor and depth. The series has a strong critical approval rating on review aggregator sites.
- Awards: The show has received numerous accolades, including Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards. It has been recognized for its acting, writing, directing, and outstanding production values.
- Audience Reception: Viewers have responded positively to the series, praising its humor, characters, and the empowering story of Midge’s rise in the stand-up comedy scene. The show has a dedicated fan base, appreciative of its blend of comedy and drama, and its period detail.
- Discussion Points: While the reception has been overwhelmingly positive, some critics and viewers have discussed the show’s depiction of historical accuracy, its treatment of race and diversity, and how it handles the complexities of Midge’s privilege within her societal context.
Overall, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” has been a triumph for Amazon Prime Video, showcasing the platform’s ability to produce high-quality, original content that resonates with both critics and audiences alike. The series has carved out a unique niche for itself, celebrated for bringing to life the spirit of an era and the story of a woman ahead of her time.
