Is Felicity a Good Show? And Why Does It Feel Like a Warm Hug on a Rainy Day?
When it comes to television shows that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers, Felicity often finds itself in the conversation. Airing from 1998 to 2002, this coming-of-age drama created by J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves has been both praised and critiqued over the years. But the question remains: Is Felicity a good show? The answer, much like the show itself, is layered, nuanced, and deeply personal. Let’s dive into the many facets of Felicity to understand why it continues to resonate with audiences decades later.
The Premise: A Relatable Journey of Self-Discovery
At its core, Felicity is a story about a young woman named Felicity Porter (played by Keri Russell) who makes a life-altering decision to follow her high school crush, Ben Covington (Scott Speedman), to college in New York City. While the premise might sound like a typical romantic drama, the show quickly transcends this initial setup to explore themes of identity, independence, and the messy, often painful process of growing up.
Felicity’s journey is one that many viewers can relate to. Her decision to abandon her pre-med track at Stanford to pursue art at the fictional University of New York (UNY) is a bold move that speaks to the universal struggle of choosing between societal expectations and personal passions. This relatability is one of the show’s greatest strengths, as it captures the essence of what it means to be young and uncertain about the future.
The Characters: Flawed, Human, and Endearing
One of the standout aspects of Felicity is its richly developed characters. Felicity herself is a deeply flawed protagonist, often making decisions that frustrate viewers but ultimately feel authentic. Her relationships with Ben and Noel Crane (Scott Foley) form the backbone of the show, and the love triangle between them is both compelling and emotionally charged.
Ben, the brooding and enigmatic object of Felicity’s affection, is a character who evolves significantly over the course of the series. His struggles with addiction, family issues, and self-worth make him more than just a love interest; he’s a fully realized individual with his own arc. On the other hand, Noel represents stability and reliability, but his own insecurities and flaws prevent him from being a one-dimensional “nice guy.”
The supporting cast, including Felicity’s best friend Julie Emrick (Amy Jo Johnson) and her eccentric RA Javier Clemente Quintata (Ian Gomez), adds depth and humor to the show. Each character feels like a real person, with their own dreams, fears, and imperfections.
The Writing: Emotional Depth and Realistic Dialogue
The writing in Felicity is another reason why the show has endured. The dialogue is natural and often poignant, capturing the awkwardness and intensity of young adulthood. The show doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, such as mental health, sexual assault, and the pressures of academic and professional success.
One of the most memorable aspects of the writing is the use of voiceovers, where Felicity records her thoughts on cassette tapes. This narrative device allows viewers to connect with her on a deeper level, as we hear her innermost thoughts and feelings. It’s a clever way to explore her internal struggles and growth, making her journey all the more intimate and relatable.
The Aesthetic: A Time Capsule of the Late ’90s and Early 2000s
From Felicity’s iconic curly hair to the grungy, bohemian aesthetic of her dorm room, Felicity is a visual time capsule of the late ’90s and early 2000s. The show’s fashion, music, and set design all contribute to its nostalgic appeal. The soundtrack, featuring artists like Joni Mitchell, Ani DiFranco, and The Dave Matthews Band, perfectly complements the show’s emotional tone.
The cinematography also deserves praise, with its warm, intimate lighting and thoughtful framing. The show’s visual style enhances its storytelling, creating a sense of intimacy that draws viewers in.
The Criticisms: Not Without Its Flaws
While Felicity has many strengths, it’s not without its flaws. Some viewers have criticized the show for its melodramatic moments and occasional reliance on soap opera tropes. The infamous “haircut” episode, where Felicity cuts off her long curls, is often cited as a turning point in the series, with some fans feeling that the show lost its way in later seasons.
Additionally, the love triangle between Felicity, Ben, and Noel can feel repetitive and exhausting at times. While it’s a central part of the show, some viewers may find themselves frustrated by the characters’ indecision and lack of communication.
The Legacy: A Show That Still Resonates
Despite its imperfections, Felicity has left a lasting impact on television and its viewers. It paved the way for other character-driven dramas like Gilmore Girls and The O.C., and its exploration of young adulthood continues to resonate with new generations of viewers.
The show’s themes of self-discovery, love, and resilience are timeless, and its portrayal of the college experience remains one of the most authentic on television. For many, Felicity is more than just a show; it’s a comforting reminder of the messy, beautiful journey of growing up.
FAQs
1. Why is Felicity considered a groundbreaking show?
Felicity was groundbreaking for its focus on a female protagonist’s emotional and intellectual journey, as well as its realistic portrayal of college life. It also tackled complex issues like mental health and sexual assault, which were rarely addressed on television at the time.
2. What happened to Felicity’s hair in Season 2?
In Season 2, Felicity cuts off her long, curly hair into a short bob. This decision was made by Keri Russell and the show’s creators, but it sparked significant backlash from fans and is often cited as a reason for the show’s declining ratings.
3. Does Felicity have a satisfying ending?
Opinions on the series finale vary, but many fans appreciate the show’s conclusion, which ties up major storylines while leaving room for interpretation. Without giving away spoilers, the ending emphasizes Felicity’s growth and the importance of her relationships.
4. Is Felicity worth watching today?
Absolutely. While some aspects of the show may feel dated, its emotional depth, relatable characters, and timeless themes make it a worthwhile watch for both new viewers and those revisiting it for nostalgia.
5. What other shows are similar to Felicity?
If you enjoyed Felicity, you might like Dawson’s Creek, Gilmore Girls, The O.C., or My So-Called Life. These shows share a focus on character development, emotional storytelling, and the complexities of young adulthood.