Some of these initial remarks were jotted down in the course of watching the relevant episodes (as indicated) but I have also tried to give some degree of summative views and opinions towards the end.
From Episode 1, it was lovely to see the use of pastel cartoon images ‘on’ the film; this was dne just enough to be sweet and touching but not to excess. And latterly, certainly when characters were undergoing traumatic episodes, the same technique was very creatively used by having agitated scribbled lines surrounding the relevant character to represent their inner turmoil and the sense that everything was beginning to overwhelm them.
But again, this was very sparingly used and so highly emotionally effective for the viewer. I am sure that having the original creator so intimately involved in the process, and being the scriptwriter to boot, ensured that the vision she had could be best conveyed in a different medium. Likewise, in Episode 2, the fantasy sequences were beautifully done with a shimmering rainbow of colours around the scene.
One of the best and most thought-provoking aspects of this latest series is how Nick’s issues with eating and body image so strongly affect Kit and the slow development of this realisation and his pained bewilderment at how he can best help while feeling helpless himself is very powerfully and thoughtfully explored. In Episode 3 this was very finely done. This is one of the central key strengths of the whole sequence; there is not just the easy focus on the joy and ecstasy of first love. There is the very real issue of how, when one party has significant issues, how you can help them and be there for them in the best and most positive way.
From a structural point of view, I much liked the way, in Episode 4, we were shown how Charlie’s and Kit’s lives were when Charlie was away in the clinic. There was not constant flashing back and forth from one to the other but rather a sustained focus on first one character, then the other which ensured greater identification on our part with each of them. And the video made was lovely
I also liked the way that as much attention was given to the burgeoning relationships between the other members of the friendship group. It broadened the focus of the drama and one could see how each affected the other. The Tao/Elle relationship was very finely depicted with his endearing insecurity being marvelously touching.
And the introduction of a new character and family to add to the mix with Nick’s aunt is an excellent decision as was the gradual introduction of Charlies’ sister Tori who became more and more intriguing as this series developed. I hope that there is more focus on her in the final series and that we get her ‘story’. I felt that we were beginning to start on this already. Have her ‘issues’ not yet been really recognized by anyone as she is somewhat outside the central friendship group?
By Episodes 6 and 7 there has been a first-rate, gradual development of all characters and their issues. At no time has it felt excessively or calculatedly manipulative on our emotions.
By the final episode it was clear that while there had been much necessary focus on one character’s concern for the others, it was also important and necessary that their own emotions, issues and feelings were not being neglected. Self-care is as important as care for others – and if that is dealt with, then one can better help others – a crucially important message but one which arises naturally and in a non-didactic manner from the drama.
And so I, along with everyone else, cannot wait for the conclusion of this wonderful story.