Instinct Television Show: A Modern Take on Norman Lear’s Classic Sitcom
The Netflix series One Day At A Time revitalizes Norman Lear’s 1975 sitcom with a contemporary twist, centering on a Cuban-American family. While the show’s origins lie in a marketing survey identifying single Latina mothers as a desirable demographic, the final product transcends its calculated beginnings to become a nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of family life in the 21st century.
The series thrives due to the creative vision of co-showrunner Gloria Calderon Kellett, who infused the show with her own Cuban-American family experiences. This specificity is crucial to the show’s success, shaping the characters’ identities and informing the storylines in a way that feels authentic and engaging.
One Day At A Time tackles a range of contemporary issues, from immigration and sexuality to affirmative action, offering valuable social commentary within the framework of a family sitcom. The show explores these topics with sensitivity and depth, never reducing its characters to stereotypes or simplifying complex issues. The series’ strength lies in its ability to balance humorous moments with poignant dramatic scenes, showcasing the resilience and complexity of the Alvarez family.
Justina Machado delivers a powerful performance as Penelope, the single mother and veteran grappling with the challenges of raising two teenagers, managing her career as a nurse, and navigating her relationship with her own mother, played with comedic brilliance by Rita Moreno. The show deftly portrays the multi-generational dynamics within the family, exploring cultural traditions, generational gaps, and the enduring bonds of love and loyalty.
The show skillfully integrates Spanish language and Cuban cultural elements into the narrative, enriching the storytelling and providing a genuine representation of the family’s heritage. This authenticity allows viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level, regardless of their own cultural background.
While paying homage to Lear’s classic sitcom format, One Day At A Time embraces modern storytelling techniques, utilizing serialized elements and exploring character arcs with greater depth than its predecessor. The show’s success demonstrates the enduring power of the sitcom format to address relevant social issues and create meaningful connections with audiences. By prioritizing authenticity and specificity, One Day At A Time transcends its commercial origins and emerges as a powerful and resonant portrayal of a contemporary Cuban-American family. The show’s commitment to inclusivity and its nuanced portrayal of complex issues make it a valuable contribution to the television landscape.
