Nowadays, it’s challenging to find a good teen drama show that strikes the right balance between realism and relatability. Many shows suffer from excessive overacting, unrealistic social media portrayals, and overly bright aesthetics. However, “Grand Army” breaks the mold by offering a melodramatic adolescent fantasy that is both captivating and true to life.
In “Grand Army,” you’ll witness the struggles and turmoils of five remarkable characters. From a vibrant teenage girl fearlessly expressing her sexuality and promoting body positivity to an Asian-American teenager battling with identity and the need to fit in, these characters face harsh realities that resonate with the challenges of modern adolescence. A Haitian-American girl juggles her private family life, social life, and school life, while an Indian-American teenage boy on the swim team grapples with his sexuality and the fear of parental rejection. Lastly, a talented Black saxophone player inadvertently compromises his future while witnessing the marginalization of his best friend in the system.
The intense and intriguing hardships faced by these characters draw you into the show, allowing you to deeply empathize with their experiences. “Grand Army” offers an accurate representation of social media, seamlessly incorporating Instagram posts and realistic text messages. Unlike other millennial shows, it feels like real-life conversations, creating a genuine and immersive viewing experience.
This thought-provoking series tackles a wide range of themes, including sexual abuse, sexual orientation, racism, poverty, sexism, bullying, and even potential psychosis. It is not a lighthearted, overdramatic, or alternate reality teen drama series. While the occasional animated scenes add a unique touch, such as one character portrayed as a zombie-killing cartoon character, the show predominantly maintains a serious tone.
If you’re seeking a show that will truly captivate you, “Grand Army” is a must-watch. Be prepared for heart-wrenching moments that might bring you to tears, astonishing animation that will surprise you, and instances of frustration where you’ll find yourself yearning to shake the characters into reality. Don’t miss out on this binge-worthy Netflix original series, consisting of nine compelling episodes.
Indulge yourself in the gripping world of “Grand Army” today! Remember to have some popcorn and tissues handy, as this TV series is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
