This series has an odd quality because I recognize that as a complete work, it’s not really a 9/10 experience. The initial episodes weren't particularly strong, and the first part of the second season noticeably declines in quality. However, things change dramatically in the latter half, and then the show becomes truly remarkable. In a landscape dominated by sitcoms featuring characters that are hard to like—think shows like *The Big Bang Theory* or *The Simpsons*—something like this is genuinely necessary; it’s a series that shouldn't function on paper. Penelope often gets overly focused on her role as a mother, Elena embodies a form of social activism and body positivity, and Schneider is essentially with them out of loneliness, also exhibiting a subtle depression, though not to the same degree as Penelope. It seems improbable that it could all come together, yet it does. There’s just something so fundamentally human about the main characters; Penelope's emotional breakdowns resonate with me personally, especially given my own anxiety, or you can see Alex, the sarcastic and kind guy, as someone to aspire to. The show, in a deeply heartwarming way, celebrates overcoming rock bottom—dealing with issues like racism, homophobia, depression, and drug problems—and finding solace in your relationships, whether they’re friends or family. It doesn't offer easy solutions; Penelope will continue to grapple with her depression, anxiety, and PTSD, Elena will still face prejudice from her father, and Alex will still encounter racism. The series isn't about resolving everyday difficulties; it's about experiencing life's challenges and persevering even when you stumble, because you need to present yourself to the world and demonstrate that no matter how many times you’re knocked down, you can find strength. It's a show about discovering self-respect and appreciating others in a world that might be harsh, but at least we have each other to make it more manageable.

Source on TMDB