The British black comedy "Such Brave Girls" has been recognized by TIME magazine as one of the 50 most underappreciated television shows of the 21st century. The series, which premiered its first season in 2023, explores themes of trauma and patriarchal control through dark humor.
"Such Brave Girls" centers on a family of women navigating their relationships with the male figures in their lives. The protagonist, Josie, a closeted lesbian in her early twenties, is portrayed as increasingly exasperated by her oblivious boyfriend, while her younger sister, Billie, engages in self-destructive romantic pursuits. Their mother, Deb, who was abandoned by the girls' father, dedicates her energy to finding a man she believes can rescue them from financial hardship, leading to chaotic situations.
Creator Kat Sadler, who also stars as Josie, co-created the series with her real-life sister, Lizzie Davidson, who plays Billie. The show's narrative is characterized by its embrace of the absurd and its unflinching depiction of female desperation under societal pressure. Despite receiving a BAFTA award for its initial season, the show has garnered limited attention in the United States, though it is available on Hulu.
TIME's selection highlights the show's sharp writing and its willingness to engage with difficult themes in a darkly comedic manner. The publication suggests that while its unflinching approach might be challenging for some audiences, those who appreciate biting satire and existential themes may find "Such Brave Girls" compelling.