Warning: Minor spoilers ahead for Netflix's series "GLOW."
Netflix's new comedy "GLOW," which stands for "Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling," is based on the low-budget hit women's wrestling organization and TV show of the same name from the 1980s.
It stars "Community" star Alison Brie as Ruth, an out-of-work actress who answers a casting call for "unconventional women." Excited that the audition isn't for a pornographic film, Ruth sticks it out to become one of a dozen strange women who'll build America's first professional women's wrestling organization.
Why should you care:
There's some pretty big TV players behind "GLOW." Its executive producers' credits include "Orange Is the New Black," "Nurse Jackie," and "Homeland." And if you were a major fan of the original '80s show, it's fun to see how something like that came together.
What's hot:
Aside from the immensely relatable Brie, there is some outstanding acting from comedian Marc Maron, who plays the director of "GLOW"; Betty Gilpin, as a soap actress-turned-wrestler and Ruth's good friend (until she's not); and Britney Young, who plays the gentle giant, Carmen, who's part of a wrestling legacy.
Also an honorable mention must go to the adorable Chris Lowell, who played Piz on "Veronica Mars," as the rich kid who does a lot of drugs and becomes the financial backer for "GLOW."
What's not:
There's some meandering storylines in the early episodes, but things start to pay off after you've gotten over the first few. Keep watching.
The bottom-line:
On the surface, "GLOW" is a fun, fast viewing experience. But if you look just a tad deeper, there's something in this group of freaks working toward belonging to something that will be relatable for most viewers and there's a pretty empowering message for women.
Grade:
B+
"GLOW" is currently streaming on Netflix.
