Usually, I’m not big on re-watching TV series, but lately, I’ve been feeling a bit off and not consuming media like I usually do. So, I figured I’d stick to my comfort zone and revisit something familiar, with a storyline and ending I already know. That’s where Derry Girls comes in: This series truly works wonders; even on though days, just one episode can turn things around and put a smile on my face.
Funny thing is, Derry Girls could have easily been a drama. Set in Northern Ireland in the 90s, revolving around a group of 16-year-old friends who’ve grown up amidst the Troubles, it had all the elements to become a deeply political and intense series. Yet, the creator, Lisa McGee, chose to gift us with this brilliant comedy, which, in its own unique manner, still retains a political undercurrent.
To me, Derry Girls is primarily a coming-of-age sitcom. The showrunners present us with all the wonderful elements of a sitcom: familiar characters, humor in the mundane, and a peek into family dynamics. However, given that the central characters are 16-year-old girls (and one wee English fella), there’s also this coming-of-age aspect. Over the three seasons of the show, we witness these characters change and discover themselves, adding depth to the comedic framework.
It’s weird to start a review by talking about the soundtrack, but it’s so good I just have to talk about it! Each song fits perfectly into the setting and mood of the scene, and the songs in themselves are great music, I’ve added so many new sounds to my Spotify after the show! Another aspect I have to acknowledge is the phenomenal writing. The script is one of the best I’ve seen, with comedy lines that are remarkable and unforgettable. With the help of the amazing cast, the script is brought to life, filled with amazing comedic timing, acting and a genuine embodiment of their characters.
Moreover, this series has a remarkable ability to make you care deeply about every character, from the core group of Derry girls to their families, and even Sister Michael, the school’s headmistress. While each character brings something unique and memorable to the table, it’s in their relationships where they truly shine. Their friendship and the way they demonstrate love and support for one another serve as a prime example of what genuine and healthy friends are like. They are not all words, but prove their bond with actions, which makes it all the more impactful.
“You’re A Derry Girl Now, James.”
– Michelle (Derry Girls)
Obviously, I can’t talk about Derry Girls without mentioning the political aspect happening in the background of each episode. While this series is first and foremost a comedy, the setting of the show was intentional, and the political aspect merges really well with the pace of the show. In every episode, while the girls are out doing mischief on their adventures, the background is clearly violent and controlled. Instead of getting deep into the politics and drama, the show just lets it all hang out in the background, making everything feel more genuine. Sure, there’s violence and chaos, but our main characters are just trying to figure out life as they go along, and they do it with a lot of heart and humor.
The final episode of the show is the only one where we get a more in depth view of the conflict and its repercussions. As the girls come of age and earn the right to vote, they’re faced with the weighty decision of whether to support the Good Friday Agreement. Unlike the rest of the series, this episode isn’t all laughs; instead, it tackles serious themes, including moral dilemmas and the potential consequences of the agreement.
“There’s a part of me that doesn’t really want to grow up. I’m not sure I’m ready for it, I’m not sure I’m ready for the world. But things can’t stay the same, and they shouldn’t. No matter how scary it is we have to move on and we have to grow up because things, well they might just change for the better.”
– Erin (Derry Girls)
To finish this review, I want to get a bit more personal and talk about what I believe is one of the most important messages and ideas of the show: it portrays perfectly what it is like to grow up in an environment with political turmoil.
Looking back at my childhood in Lebanon, while everything was going on in the background, my friends and I were just teenagers growing up and entering adulthood. We were having fun, getting into our own mischief, and discovering ourselves; used to the chaos surrounding us. However, as we matured, we couldn’t remain oblivious to our surroundings. We became increasingly informed about our history, our government, and our global position. We didn’t want to leave the turmoil in the background anymore; we were angry and wanted to change the fate that was given to us. We voted for the first time, started getting political on social media, and had debates with our families and classmates. And while these may not have changed much on a bigger scale, we didn’t want to stay silent on what matters to us, and I’m glad we didn’t.
To my friends: I’m so grateful we got to be better people together, thank you!
Lastly, you can find Derry Girls on Netflix. It’s a small bingeable series so don’t waste time and start it ASAP (you get used to their Irish accent really easily so don’t let this stop you!) And if, like me, you’re eagerly awaiting the new season of Bridgerton, you’ll appreciate seeing Nicola Coughlan (Penelope Featherington) in a new light as Claire 🙂 If you’ve already watched it, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Sara Unfiltered 
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