Set in Shaker Heights, Ohio in the 90s, Little Fires Everywhere is about two families whose lives become intertwined because of their children.

Starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington, the ten-episode series is based on Celeste Ng’s best-selling novel of the same name – and it’s very well-acted by all involved.

As a drama about families, the weight of secrets, motherhood and identity; Little Fires Everywhere tackles each topic in powerful and moving ways. One of my favourite moments/lines of dialogue ends with the words: ‘You won’t have to swim forever.’ I also liked the beginning when the families seemed to be getting along. The quiet before the storm.

The complexity of the characters is another highlight. You may not find one to fully identify with or completely like, but chances are, you’ll see their humanity and get some understanding of their struggle, because the writing is so good.

Besides the strong focus on identity, the absence of humour as a key element, and the fact that no one gets murdered, Little Fires Everywhere has a few things in common with the hit series Desperate Housewives. There’s the suburban setting, the secrets and the different experiences of motherhood to name just three.

Outside of a moment in an earlier episode when I wanted things to move along a little faster, Little Fires Everywhere is worth watching for all the above reasons. So give it a chance if you’re curious.

Happy Film Loving,

G

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