PEN15: LiTeRalLy <blushing>
This show streamed on on Hulu is a mirror that reflects how some generations survived the cringe-worthy phase of adolescence and somehow shaped the world we live in today. Find out why.
If you haven't strapped into the nostalgia ride that is 'PEN15' on Hulu, you're missing out big time on the joyride, and this recommendation is years behind. This show was released in 2019, and honestly, I just discovered it through TikTok videos. Created by the dynamic duo Anna Konkle and Maya Erskine, this show isn't just a laugh-out-loud comedy – it's a mirror showing us how we survived the cringe-worthy phase of adolescence and somehow made it to adulthood without permanent emotional scarring. Plus, saying that Anna and Maya's acting game is unbelievably on point is an understatement!
Let me start by sharing the outcome of my research on the name. 'PEN15' is a play on words referencing a grade-school prank where kids, dying to be liked, end up agreeing to be in a 'club' by having 'PEN15' written somewhere on their body. Hulu says it’s phonetically calling the show 'pen-fifteen,' but you and I know the ugly truth.
Growing up in Mexico, my teen years weren't exactly like Maya and Anna's, but I was very involved with American life because I attended private school. Thus, the show is not as relatable to my own personal experience, but oh boy, it does feel like I went through the awkwardness they show.
Flashback to Web 2.0 and Y2K:
PEN15 catapults us into a world of AIM chatrooms, where 'ASL?' was the ultimate icebreaker. I'm not going to lie; I just learned this through my research. But boy, oh boy! How about the looong dial-up internet that took ages to connect? Just imagine that type of experience in today's world. It would make everyone cra-ze!
The series nails the vibe with meticulous attention to production and props, to a point where you really remember who you were in those days. This series is the perfect mix of reminiscence, laughter, and reflection.
Silly & Sillier:
Hold onto your braces because Anna and Maya's chemistry is so spot-on; it's like they've tapped into the universal awkwardness of adolescence. The way they navigate puberty, friendship, and identity is both cringe-worthy and heartwarming, making us snort-laugh and say, "Yep, been there, survived that."
Real Talk about Real Stuff
But wait, there's more! 'PEN15' isn't just about the hilarious mishaps of middle school; it's honestly a stealthy ninja tackling real societal issues: body image, self-esteem, peer pressure, racism, sexual education, experimenting with drugs – the show dives deep into the honest truth of growing up. Many circumstances arise during these years, but between Anna and Maya, there's always a sense of "you got this" kind of support.
“It’s all happening, it’s all happening”
Anna and Maya's friendship in "Pen15" is not your typical, sugar-coated portrayal often seen in mainstream media. Instead, it smashes stereotypes by presenting the raw, unfiltered, and sometimes messy side of female friendships. It transcends the clichés of rainbows and sleepovers, offering a genuine depiction of navigating life's rollercoaster together.
In a refreshing twist, the characters promise each other to experience everything new together, embodying the spirit of true companionship. Their bond becomes a pact to face the unknown, the awkward, and the challenging side by side. This commitment adds depth to their friendship, showcasing a resilience that goes beyond the superficial portrayals often found in similar narratives.
In essence, PEN15 takes us on a wild ride through the genesis of our society. After seeing this show, it's very clear how our young adults were shaped and how they are currently shaping our world. 🚨 Don't get me wrong! I think we've come a long way since the days of AIM chatrooms and dial-up internet, with today's tech-savvy generation navigating a digital landscape that would make our early 2000s selves gasp in awe.
However, what PEN15 brilliantly highlights is the timeless essence of growing up – the laughter, the tears, the awkwardness – all experiences that transcend the ever-evolving trends and technologies. So, on this hilarious and nostalgic journey with Anna and Maya, we're not just reminiscing about the past; we're also gaining a unique perspective on how those quirky, formative years continue to shape the present.
Okay, so...TTYL!
SocietyDisruptor1999
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