In the vibrant new Netflix comedy “Too Much,” Lena Dunham showcases the talents of Megan Stalter as she navigates the complicated life of Jessica, a brash American Anglophile in England. This character finds herself grappling with expectations versus reality in a world that isn’t quite what she envisioned. A standout moment occurs when Jessica delivers a humorous metafictional rant about her romantic aspirations, exclaiming her desire to be with Hugh Grant from the “Bridget Jones’s Diary.” This clever exchange highlights the show's ability to both acknowledge and poke fun at the conventions of romantic comedies.
Jessica's journey is reminiscent of the beloved character from “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” embodying traits that are both unpolished and hopeful. Her character is hardworking, lustful, and recovering from a tumultuous relationship with Zev, played by Michael Zegen of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Unlike traditional rom-com heroines, Jessica maintains a video diary where she rants about Zev’s new girlfriend, Wendy, portrayed by Emily Ratajkowski. Wendy, an influencer with a picture-perfect life, becomes the object of Jessica’s obsessive scrutiny as she attempts to forge a new path in her life.
In “Too Much,” Jessica isn’t just the protagonist; she also embodies the archetype of the “crazy ex,” fixating on the seemingly flawless life of Wendy. The series contrasts Jessica's life as an expat with the glamor often depicted in romantic comedies. For instance, while shows like “Emily in Paris” present an idealized vision of life in the city, Jessica's reality is far more grounded, with her dreary flat reflecting the struggles of an authentic and relatable experience. The series captures London's gritty charm, avoiding the cinematic gloss that often accompanies tales of love and adventure.
Dunham has described “Too Much” as a homage to the romantic comedies that influenced her. Episode titles like “Nonsense and Sensibility,” “Pity Woman,” and “Notting Kill” are clever nods that reflect her playful engagement with the genre. However, Dunham's approach is innovative, as she delves into the complexities of relationships beyond the typical happy endings. She emphasizes that love requires effort and self-reflection, stating, “You have to try — you don’t just fall into each other’s arms.”
In addition to Jessica’s story, the series introduces a rich tapestry of family dynamics through her older sister Nora, played by Dunham herself. Nora's life is equally intricate, having moved back in with their mother and grandmother after her marriage ended. This gothic family setup could easily warrant its own spin-off series. While Jessica's work environment is less compelling, the series shines with sharp social observations, especially during comedic scenes featuring her quirky colleagues and family gatherings.
The ensemble cast of “Too Much” includes notable cameos from actors like Naomi Watts, Stephen Fry, and Andrew Scott, adding depth to the narrative. Stalter delivers a remarkable performance as Jessica, showcasing her character's impulsive nature and emotional vulnerability. Will Sharpe, as Felix, balances charm and complexity, navigating social dynamics with authenticity.
Ultimately, “Too Much” does not conform to the typical romantic comedy formula. Instead, it offers a refreshing perspective on love and relationships, opting out of the usual tropes of personal growth that are often mandated by the genre. This series invites viewers to appreciate the messiness of life and love, providing a nuanced take on what it means to pursue happiness in a complex world.
“Too Much” consists of 10 episodes and is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
