I finally got around to watching the second season of Friends From College, a Netflix original, and boy, it did not disappoint. But what it did do, is prove that Netflix and other streaming sites will continue to support mainstream television that reinforces the status quo.
I’m not going to lie, this was one of those shows last year that I watched as a sort of knowingly bad, guilty pleasure, but over time I realized that the show takes a stab at a realistic (though highly-dramatized) portrayal of love– and the messiness that comes with it.
First of all, this show is comedy gold. It’s a mix of clever banter, weird people and totally ironic material. The hilarious factor (and star power with Keegan Michael Key) gave the producers enough steam to be renewed for a second season, but wasn’t enough to save them again. Why does this show need saving? Friends from College is full of blatant cheating, scandal and douche-baggery throughout, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
It’s hard to root for these characters because of how flawed and ridiculous they act, but I argue that we got to see a lot more depth and relatability from them in season 2. By letting this show go, Netflix reinforces the idea that streaming sites will continue to support shows that are “safe.” I use the term safe intentionally because Netflix is a for-profit company that will move forward only with shows that align with commonly held values and are guaranteed to make money. Adultery is a big no-no, especially within a friend group, and this show has plenty of it. It’s a shame that Netflix is cancelling the show because for once, a romantic-comedy doesn’t paint a rose-colored hue over love…it shows the good, the bad and (plenty of) the ugly.
I definitely recommend this show because the outrageousness is coupled with great acting, comedy, realism and a heck of a story. Prove Netflix wrong and take a leap of faith for a show that pushes the boundaries.
Maybe we can save it after all. Either way, it was a good ride while it lasted.