Big Little Lies

Big Little Lies is one of the best TV shows I have ever watched, tackling profoundly important topics with incredible depth and nuance. Based on the book of the same name by Liane Moriarty, Big Little Lies is a brilliantly crafted series that explores the false appearances and hidden lives of three mothers whose children attend the same school. The show opens with a mysterious assassination, adding a layer of suspense, but it’s not the central focus. Instead, the true brilliance of the show lies in its exploration of human relationships, personal struggles, and social dynamics.
The show covers an array of deeply significant themes such as:
- Domestic Violence,
- Sexual Abuse,
- Bullying,
- Trauma,
- Gender Dynamics,
- Intimacy,
- Competitiveness,
- Social Judgment,
- Friendship,
- Vengeance,
- Infidelity,
- Gossip,
- Envy and
- Social Status.
Each of these themes is not only well-executed but also interconnected organically, allowing the narrative to flow seamlessly. What I particularly liked is that the characters are not portrayed as perfect, which makes them relatable and human. Their flaws and internal battles are what make their journeys so compelling and real.

The show is a reflective study of the contrast between the lives people project to the world and the realities they experience behind closed doors. The complexity of the characters and their hidden struggles are what give the show its emotional depth and staying power.

There are five main characters who lead the show:
- Celeste Wright, played by Nicole Kidman, delivers a powerful performance as a woman struggling with domestic violence.
- Madeline McKenzie, portrayed by Reese Witherspoon, is a mother balancing the roles of friend, wife, and woman with her own insecurities.
- Jane Chapman, played by Shailene Woodley, is a young mother haunted by her traumatic past.
- Renata Klein, portrayed by Laura Dern, is a successful businesswoman fiercely protective of her daughter.
- Bonnie Carlson, played by Zoë Kravitz, is a peaceful, introspective character who becomes involved in the show's central conflict.

These five women give spectacular performances that elevate the show to another level. They each bring their unique personalities and struggles to life in ways that feel genuine, making the viewer care deeply about their journeys.

In addition to the main cast, the secondary characters are well-acted and add richness to the narrative. The writing is incredibly sharp, and the show's message about the complexity of human relationships and societal expectations is both timely and timeless.

Overall, Big Little Lies is an unforgettable show that resonates deeply. Its themes are handled with sensitivity and authenticity, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates character-driven storytelling that reflects real-life issues. This show left a lasting impression on me, and I can't recommend it enough.

Show Details

Genre: Drama

Release Date: February 19, 2017

Seasons: 2

Episodes: 14

Runtime: 0:50:00

Network: HBO

Creator: David E. Kelley

Language: N/A

Rating: 11.0/10