Lena Dunham's 'Too Much': a deep dive into love and trauma

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4 days ago

Megan Stalter and Will Sharpe deliver stellar performances in 'Too Much'.
Image: X
'Too Much', the new romantic comedy created by Hollywood actress Lena Dunham, has been earning worldwide acclaim for its take on modern relationships.
The Netflix series delves deep into the universal experience of not feeling safe in relationships.
As the title suggests, it emotionally relates to the legions across the globe from different walks of life who have ever felt, well, 'too much.'
The series also unpacks the struggle of making relationships work as both parties have to commit to creating a safe space for each other, while juggling other challenges like careers, family and friends - all while carrying decades worth of personal trauma.
Megan Stalter and Will Sharpe in 'Too Much'.
Image: X
With its sharp humour and an impressive casting of A-listers to breakthrough talents, the rom-com has been sparking debates worldwide as it continues to rank amongst the most-watched shows on the streaming giant, including in South Africa, where it has remained in the Top 10 since its premiere on Friday, June 11.
'Too Much' is the brainchild of the 'Girls' writer and star, with whom she worked on it with her husband, Luis Felber.
The actress has explained in an interview that the series draws inspiration from her own life as, like the show's protagonist, she moved from New York to London in 2021, where she ended up meeting her husband, who, like the main character's love interest, is also a British musician.
Despite this, Dunham has insisted that 'Too Much' is not meant to directly mirror her life, opening the possibilities for a creative exploration.
Meanwhile, Working Title Films, the production company behind the 'Bridget Jones' movie franchise, also produced the show.
It centres around Jessica, who is portrayed excellently by 'Hacks' breakout star Megan Stalter.
Following a devastating break-up, the chaotic New Yorker in her mid-thirties decided to move to London. It is here where she meets a struggling bar singer Felix, played by 'The White Lotus' actor, Will Sharpe.
On her first day in the city, she meets Felix at a pub and their connection is immediate and intense.
Megan Stalter and Will Sharpe deliver stellar performances in 'Too Much'.
Image: X
While Jessica struggles to be away from her family in America as she adjusts to life in the UK, one thing that starts to go well in her life is her relationship with Felix, which continues to strengthen.
They spend hours walking through London and talking on their first date, and the couple move in together after just a few months.
But as their quirky and heartwarming love story plays out, Jessica and Felix are forced to contend with their individual traumas.
Jessica comes from a complicated female-dominated family, including her sister (Dunham), her mother (Rita Wilson), and her grandmother (Rhea Perlman).
She is also still processing the pain for her ex-boyfriend, Zev (Michael Zegen), leaving her for a social media influencer, Wendy Jones (Emily Ratajkowski).
Meanwhile, Felix is also still traumatised by past relationships and is also battling with his strained family relationships. In his mid-thirties, he lacks ambition and is a recovering addict.
And despite their connection, Jessica and Felix must also overcome dating red flags in order to keep their love alive.
What truly sets 'Too Much' apart in the rom-com world, with its abundance of offerings, is the stellar performances. The chemistry between Jessica and Felix is electric, despite the cringy awkwardness, which I found to be genuine and authentic.
Stalter and Sharpe must be commended for their stellar performances. The manner in which they bring this powerful and modern love story to life resonates with many, and they are brilliant in displaying a range of emotions, from euphoria to heartbreak.
The supporting cast, including Dunham in the background as Nora, Jessica's older sister, as well as Ratajkowski, Wilson and Perlman, also delivered heartwarming performances.
The storyline is also incredibly powerful as 'Too Much's' themes of grief, heartbreak, personal growth and love are ones that many streamers will be able to relate to.
The show's take on personal insecurities and the desire for romantic relationships to be a safe haven has also been intriguing viewers.
The intelligent infusion of humour in 'Too Much' also solidifies its success as it acts as satire and opens the door for deeper reflection while also adding balance to this nuanced and emotional story.
Some other elements which I enjoyed on the show are Rita Ora's surprise appearance as well as Fergie's 'London Bridge' aptly being used as the soundtrack for this honest and hilarious love story.
* I give it 4 out of 5 stars.