“A workplace comedy centered on a group of dedicated teachers – and an oblivious principal – in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life.” – IMDB Synopsis
Abbott Elementary deserves all the praise it has been getting over the past few years. I haven’t watched a comedy as funny as this since Atlanta. I haven’t had a show delicately balance, comedy and such a real sense of heart. This show hits a special spot for me because I’m not that far removed from being in school yet, and also for a very long time when I was a child I wanted to be an elementary school teacher. So the scenarios and high-jinks just pretty much all hit for me and the premise of an office style show set in an inter city Philly elementary school is really genius.
That genius shines through so much with the characters. The entire main cast is hilarious in their own way and their interactions and dynamics are hilarious and heartwarming to see develop as the season goes on. They have distinct but fun character archetypes. Greg is the awkward substitute (who really seems to be autistic coded, and that comes through strongly on some episodes like the Pizza one but, I’m not too sure), adjusting to teaching and also in an awkward position with the school. Janine is the super optimistic 2nd year teacher whose reality bubble hasn’t really burst yet. Jacob is that cringey teacher that we all end up loving. Barbra is this seasoned vet teacher who everyone looks up to in some way or another and is generally very supportive but can also be stuck in her old ways. Melissa is another vet teacher and also the Philly street smart lady. Ava is that one principal that some of us may have had who does absolutely nothing, but she’s even beyond that. She’s so full of herself and it’s hilarious. And finally, Mr. Johnson is that weird janitor that’s actually kind of cool but still weird. That’s not even mention the other hilarious recurring side characters and students. This cast is fun, hilarious and the dynamic between them all is just great.
I love how every episode has its own message and ends on some type of heartfelt or sad note, but always hammers home that message. I think the main takeaway from this season is making the best out of what life throws at you and carving your own path as best as you can. It’s very prominent in Greg and Jenine’s personal story lines and growth. I loved watching them come to terms with their individual current situations and make do with what they can. The best thing about this show is that all of these characters have each other’s backs. They joke and clown on each other all the time, but at the end of every school day, they can count on each other for help and for reassurance, which makes this show really one of the sweetest things I’ve ever watched. There are so many tear jerking moments just from these characters being nice to each other or interactions with the students. The fact that this show can give me that and also have me laughing for pretty much the entire rest of the runtime is just wonderful.
So yeah, I had an absolutely wonderful time watching this show. I’m already a huge fan and it is already on my Mount Rushmore of comedy shows just off of this one season. I love the premise and how it shines a light on the sad state of the school system, but also how so many teachers make do because they care about the future of their students. If it wasn’t making me laugh, it was almost making me cry. The cast is great; the acting is great. This show is great and deserves all the praise it’s already been getting and more.
Abott Elementary (Season 1) – 10/10
Notes: I love all of the characters in this show but Ava is easily my favorite shes a scene stealer and her shinanigans are hilarious. Greg is a easy second. Everyone is great though.
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