Big Mouth

4 stars

Rating: TV-MA

From the catchiest and most appropriate theme song of all time (“I’m going through changes”) to some of the weirdest characters ever to air on television, “Big Mouth” is a rambunctiously entertaining TV show about the struggles and joys of puberty. The story follows seventh graders Andrew, Nick, Jessi and Jay on their comedic experiences going through puberty, and discusses everything from menstruation (“Everybody Bleeds”), masturbation (“Ejaculation”), to serious issues like sexual harassment (“The Head Push”) and family planning (“The Planned Parenthood Show”). “Big Mouth” offers a fresh, albeit obnoxious and crass, perspective on the rites of adolescence and finds time to tackle some serious topics amid the jokes.

Sex Education

3 stars

Rating: TV-MA

If you got uncomfortable with the sex talk, this is not the show for you. Sex Education begins every episode with a scene of, you guessed it, sex. This British Netflix original focuses on sexually inexperienced Otis, the son of a famous sex therapist, and his adventures running an underground sexual clinic for fellow classmates with the help of sexually experienced, “bad girl” Maeve. Although the main plot of the show revolves around sex, and the show does not shy away from borderline pornographic scenes, Sex Education is redeemed by the character development and examination of various interpersonal relationships.

Atypical

4 stars

Rating: TV-MA

Atypical takes a unique spin on the usual family sitcom depicted in modern media, following the life of a family with a son on the autistic spectrum. Sam, a senior in high school, narrates the show and describes his yearning for independence and the life of a “typical teenager.” Sam describes common obstacles such as arguments with his mother and the search for a girlfriend, but also struggles with tougher issues like the changing dynamic of his family, which slowly falls apart as the show progresses. His younger sister Casey is a popular track star dealing her own set of worries—friend problems, boy problems and stress over school—while simultaneously feeling the need to act like a big sister to Sam. Though Sam is loveable, Casey is by far my favorite character, I aspire to have as trendy a wardrobe as hers one day, and her conflict between trying to be a helpful sibling and simultaneously have a life of her own is more interesting than Sam’s storyline. Though there is nothing inherently wrong with Atypical, there is something lacking. As far as family sitcoms go, this is one of the better ones. However,  it does not captivate the viewer, nor does it give them a need to continue watching.

The End of the F*cking World

3 stars

Rating: TV-MA

Episode length: 20 min, Seasons: 1

Not your typical teen romance, “The End of the F*cking World” is the epitome of angst. Lonely Alyssa meets James, a potential psychopath, and together they steal a car and run away. Frustrated with her creepy stepfather and negligent mother, Alyssa flees home; meanwhile, James plots to kill her. Though James’s narrative may not be as relatable to the teenage audience, it is captivating. Overall, the acting is subpar, and the constant stream of gory scenes makes the show difficult to watch. However, the editing is spectacular and the soundtrack catchy. If you’re looking for something to watch without becoming too invested, this is the show for you. If not, look elsewhere.