This week, let’s delve into the TV show GLOW, a fictionalised TV series that retraces the steps of the 1980s syndicated women’s professional wrestling circuit Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (or GLOW), founded by David McLane.
The minds behind this gem are Carly Mensch and Liz Flahive, who also serve as executive producers along with Jenji Kohan and Tara Herrmann, and the star-studded cast includes Alison Brie, Kate Nash, Marc Maron and Gayle Rankin.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1980s, GLOW is a testament to meticulous production — from the costumes and décor to the soundtrack.
The TV show follows struggling actresses living in Los Angeles as they answer an audition call-out to appear on a wrestling TV show, Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling.
With hopes to “make it”, they embark on this second chance at fame and living their dream. Beyond the ring, the series explores their quest for success, the dynamics of their friendships and the inevitable betrayals that arise.
The narrative’s twists and turns are as compelling as unexpected, earning acclaim from critics.
Darren Franich of Entertainment Weekly called it “a silly-smart masterpiece, with an ensemble cast entirely made up of breakout characters”.
Sophie Gilbert of The Atlantic said, “... it’s just a blast to watch women having so much fun. GLOW fully owns its campiness and its showy aesthetics, but it’s smart and subversive underneath the glitter.”
GLOW won three Emmys, 18 Emmy nominations and a total of 108 nominations across various awards and recognitions, according to imdb.com.
It also has a global score of 93 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes.
Comprised of three seasons of 10 episodes each, the show is not just binge-worthy: it’s a celebration of storytelling and character development and a brilliant tribute to the ’80s.
GLOW is available on Netflix.