Better as a Whole


HBO sent the entire series to critics (all six episodes) partly because it has aired in the UK in its entirely, pretty much, but I think also because the series improves over the first few episodes.

I really liked Doll & Em, but it took me until episode three before I started to understand where it was going.

I don't think it deserves the low rating it has on imdb. I think this is a rare portrait of two mature women (not girls) who have a long history of friendship that's just inches away from being sisters.

- David

Breaking Down Bergman
http://www.youtube.com/breakingdownfilms

reply

[deleted]

I thought episodes four and five were the strongest.

- David

Breaking Down Bergman
http://www.youtube.com/breakingdownfilms

reply

Just finished the series and I have say the reason the first few episode were more a comedic style was if you take into consideration of how it is when an old friend visits the first week or so are just catching up having fun. Then once a trip last longer than that week or so, people start to really disrupt your daily routine and then things have a way of turning more tense because that friend seems to be just invading into your life and you kinda of have to babysit them until they want to leave.

I feel this show started off slow because we go in not knowing what to expect until episode 4. But this story is really just the slow disintegration of a life long friendship.

reply

I have to agree, when I watched the first episode I really wasn't sure if it was going to be funny enough to hold my attention. However I was intrigued and really wanted it to work, so I persevered and I'm so glad I did. You could see the build up of tension and conflict bubbling to the surface and even though they obviously love each other very much, their relationship is still slightly awkward and edgy and funny. By Episode 3 I loved it! I want more of Doll and Em.

reply

Well it's a comedy with female leads, I wasn't expecting good ratings. The premiere is a little bit self conscious but I'll stick with it, thanks.

For every lie I unlearn I learn something new - Ani Difranco

reply

[deleted]

I loved it but I agree it has to be watched in sequence and would have been better as a 3 hour film. Good concept and really cute if you are familiar with Hollywood.

reply

I read this thread before I watched Season 1 and was surprised that it took off for me from the first episode after reading all the comments. It worked and I kind of knew where this was going from Episode 1.

reply