By Isabella Purdy
Netflix has once again given teens a great series for them to relate to. On the surface, this show may look like a “Stranger Things” or “Carrie” rip off, but it’s not. “I Am Not Okay with This” is a raw and honest series that discusses difficult topics with a side of telepathic fun.
With teen actors Sophia Lillis and Wyatt Oleff at the helm, this series delivers with two veterans who know their way around a dark and angsty story. With help from Sofia Bryant and Richard Ellis, this cast really sells this incredible story, based off of a graphic novel series by Charles Forsman.
With just seven short and sweet episodes, this series leaves you craving for more after numerous cliffhangers. The length is perfect for binging with each episode being only 24 minutes long. A captivating plot, some great effects and great lighting just really make this science fiction based story feel grounded and real.
With a great mental health message about grief and depression, this series isn’t afraid to shy away from the darker sides of what it’s like to be a teen in today’s day and age, especially with a dead parent.
With an accurate look at sexuality regarding Lillis’ character, Sydney Novak, as she navigates the confusing world of emotions and changing desires for different people. This show is very relatable because it necessarily isn’t a very happy show, and a lot of teens can relate to this because their lives aren’t perfect either.
Sydney’s best friend Stanley also has a great outlook on life, played by Oleff. He wants to be who he is and he’s not afraid of it. Sure, his abusive father isn’t thrilled, but Stanley is true to himself and that’s a great takeaway for viewers.
“I Am Not Okay with This” has a great range of topics to discuss as it depicts so many issues that today’s youth faces. The music in the show is also fantastic, but the real thing that makes this show so great is that it doesn’t gloss over any issues.
Thanks to corona-cation, now is the perfect time to binge this show and realize why “I Am Not Okay with This” is a Netflix great.
