When Does The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Get Good?
Fans of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel say this show should immediately grab a new viewer’s attention, and remains strong through the first two seasons. While most folks will say the show sees a quality decline in season three and four, most people who enjoy the first two seasons will see it worthwhile to stick out the series through the finale.
What Fans Say
Fans of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel celebrate its vibrant period aesthetics, rapid-fire dialogue, and empowering narrative. Midge Maisel’s journey from a sheltered housewife to a bold, boundary-breaking comedian inspires audiences, particularly with her wit and resilience. The show’s sharp writing, dynamic performances—especially Rachel Brosnahan and Tony Shalhoub—and the lively depiction of 1950s New York City receive widespread praise. Fans also enjoy the show’s humor, nuanced character arcs, and exploration of societal expectations for women in the mid-20th century.
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What Haters Say
Critics of the show argue that its stylized dialogue can feel overly rehearsed, detracting from the emotional authenticity of certain moments. Others take issue with the repetitive nature of some plotlines, particularly Midge’s setbacks and professional struggles. Some viewers also feel the show’s pacing falters in later seasons, with an overemphasis on subplots involving supporting characters that detracts from Midge’s core journey.
Does the Show Fall Off in Quality?
While the first two seasons of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel are universally acclaimed, opinions diverge on the later seasons. Some fans feel the show lost some of its momentum by focusing too heavily on supporting storylines. However, the final season was praised for bringing the series to a satisfying conclusion, tying up loose ends, and emphasizing Midge’s career trajectory.
Aggregated Critic Commentary
| Season | Rotten Tomatoes | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 94% (Tomatometer) / 95% (Audience) | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | 92% (Tomatometer) / 90% (Audience) | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | 83% (Tomatometer) / 85% (Audience) | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | 80% (Tomatometer) / 82% (Audience) | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | 85% (Tomatometer) / 80% (Audience) | 8.2/10 |
Critics have hailed The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel for its exceptional production values, strong ensemble cast, and engaging storytelling. The series has earned numerous awards, including Emmys and Golden Globes. Reviewers often highlight the show’s ability to blend humor with social commentary, offering a critique of gender roles and societal norms. However, some critics note inconsistencies in pacing and character development, particularly in the latter half of the series.
Overview of the Show
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, is a dramedy set in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The series follows Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a spirited Upper West Side housewife who discovers a talent for stand-up comedy after her seemingly perfect life unravels when her husband leaves her.
Armed with a sharp tongue and a newfound passion for comedy, Midge navigates the male-dominated world of stand-up, facing personal and professional challenges along the way. With her outspoken manager Susie Myerson and her eccentric family by her side, Midge’s journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and breaking societal expectations.
The series is renowned for its meticulous attention to period detail, from costumes to set design, creating an immersive experience that transports viewers to mid-century New York City. Combining humor, drama, and social critique, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel offers a compelling portrait of a woman redefining herself in an era of change.
Season Highlights
Season 1 (2017):
Midge’s perfect life is upended when her husband leaves her for his secretary, leading her to discover her comedic talent during a drunken rant at a nightclub. Highlights include Midge’s growing partnership with Susie, her struggles to balance her new career with her family life, and the exploration of 1950s societal norms.
Season 2 (2018):
Midge juggles her burgeoning comedy career with her family’s expectations. The season features memorable episodes set in the Catskills and Paris, where family dynamics and romantic tensions come to the forefront. Midge begins to establish herself as a rising star in the comedy world.
Season 3 (2019):
Midge embarks on a comedy tour, opening for popular singer Shy Baldwin. The season explores the challenges of life on the road, her growing fame, and the tensions between her personal and professional life. Highlights include her evolving friendship with Shy and Susie’s increasing involvement in the entertainment industry.
Season 4 (2022):
Midge faces setbacks after being fired from Shy Baldwin’s tour. Determined to rebuild her career on her own terms, she grapples with personal and professional obstacles. The season delves deeper into Susie’s character and showcases Midge’s resilience in a male-dominated field.
Season 5 (2023):
The final season brings Midge’s journey full circle, showcasing her rise to success and the resolution of key storylines. Flashforwards provide glimpses into the characters’ futures, offering a satisfying and poignant conclusion to the series.
Similar Shows
- Gilmore Girls – Created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, featuring quick-witted dialogue and strong female leads.
- Fleabag – A sharp, humorous exploration of a woman navigating personal struggles and societal expectations.
- Mad Men – A period drama with rich characters, exploring the 1960s through a lens of ambition and societal change.
- The Crown – Shares a meticulous focus on period detail and complex character studies.
- The Kominsky Method – Combines humor and drama in a showbiz setting, highlighting career reinvention.
If You Liked These, You’ll Like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
- Veep – Fast-paced humor and a strong, ambitious female lead.
- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt – A quirky comedy about resilience and personal growth.
- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend – Balances humor, drama, and societal critique with a focus on a strong female protagonist.
- Better Things – A nuanced exploration of family and career through the eyes of a determined woman.