Friday, February 19, 2010

United States of Tara, Season One



I understand the concept. We've all dealt with trauma. We're all hiding something. And, sometimes, to hide the things we dislike about ourselves... we act. We put on different faces. In United States of Tara this idea has gone a little too far.

Toni Collette plays a woman with dissociative identity disorder. In order to really get better she has decided to stop taking her medication. I am one for ridding yourself of medication. I want to agree with the purpose of this show. But, after a few episodes, you grow worn out by how far Tara (and her others) push her family. How much can you destroy the ones you love just to better yourself? And, how much can you forgive another and just blame a sickness?

The series is filled with sitcom cliches... pathetic sister, a stalker boyfriend, young queer love. At times, the way they deal with these cliches feel original. But, most of the time, recycled. Diablo Cody is the creator of this show. And, you notice it immediately in the dialogue: very smart, but very unlikely.

C+

1 comment:

  1. Hm. I was intrigued when this show came out because I love Toni Collette. I may still have to check it out.

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