Here is our spoiler-free critique of the 2023 Prime Video series, “I’m a Virgo” Season 1.
As viewers, we are constantly overwhelmed by a ceaseless flood of novel film and TV productions. While some of it is excellent, the majority tends to be forgettable and derivative. One tends to recognize the overused patterns and cliches after watching enough TV.
However, this paradigm shifts with Boots Riley’s television premiere, “I’m a Virgo,” which stands out as potentially the most original series of the year. This unconventional comedy captivates with its relentless innovation and creativity.
“I’m a Virgo” Season 1 Overview and Plot Summary
The series features Jharrel Jerome (When They See Us) as Cootie, a towering 13-foot-tall teenager who is a spirited Virgo – hence the show’s title. This young giant resides in seclusion with his aunt (Carmen Ejogo) and uncle (Mike Epps), who are determined to protect him from the dangers of the outside world.
In the first scene, we witness baby Cootie’s rapid growth as he exceeds the size of the family home, emerging through walls and doorways. His caretakers construct a new dwelling for him, thereby providing Cootie with some much-desired autonomy.
Driven by curiosity, Cootie yearns to explore the world beyond his home. On a night adventure into society, he uncovers a passion for loud music and fast food. Additionally, he sparks a romantic interest in Flora (Olivia Washington), who possesses her own superpowers.
Expectedly, Cootie’s entry into the real world brings both adoration and animosity. Various businesses and organizations seek to exploit him for their own benefit. And like every captivating origin story, a villain is required.
Here, Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight) steps in as the pompous entrepreneur, Jay Whittle. This eccentric comic book author doubles as a comic book character, roaming the city at night as The Hero, a law-enforcing masked vigilante.
Does “I’m a Virgo” Season 1 Hit or Miss?
“I’m a Virgo” is a melange of diverse genres and concepts, reminiscent of the surreal creations of Charlie Kaufman and the Daniels. Picture “Everything Everywhere All at Once” in a TV format, and you begin to grasp the multifaceted, inventive peculiarity of this show.
The seven-episode series is exceptionally stylized and distinctive, examining capitalism, racism, and various other societal and economic issues through a contemporary mythological perspective. It may very well be the most unconventional superhero origin tale ever told.
Jharrel Jerome shines as ever, infusing innocence and warmth into his character. Audiences will find themselves drawn to this likable, gentle titan and will look forward to seeing him navigate the real world.
Is “I’m a Virgo” Season 1 Worth Your Time?
“I’m a Virgo” may not appeal to everyone. Its frenetic pace and diverse style could be too eccentric for some viewers, who might find the artistic elements of the show off-putting.
Nonetheless, this remains a refreshing and innovative series that infuses creativity into every scene. That alone is a feat worth celebrating.