I love watching Netflix shows because they set the mood for a perfect day off with nothing to do. As a fellow binge-watcher, one show that caught my eye the beginning of this year was "One Day at a Time." A show about a single, veteran, Cuban mother trying to raise her two children with the support of her patriotic mother. It sounds like a varied concept from a cliché plot; however, it goes beyond expectations and truly characterizes immigrant families well. It plays on proving or disproving stereotypes, some true, and some not, to deliver messages pertinent to today's society.
Some topics off the top of my head that were addressed were: gun control, immigration/deportation, mental health, sexuality, environment, sexism, racism, and more! In fact, I loved the show so much that I shared it with family and friends that I knew could appreciate in full (they were all Hispanic). As part of the Hispanic community, I thought the show really played well in keeping Latin pride while also showing how we are just as American as any other people living within the borders of the United States.
If you enjoy watching shows that like to address current events and spark debate, then this show is most definitely for you. Regardless of your political leanings, "One Day at a Time" does well in demonstrating both sides of an argument instead of completely advocating for one. It's interesting to note that all the key family members have different views which clash and coincide with one another quite often, leading to dynamic conversations and necessary plot and character development. You feel as though every character has a purpose and isn't just there to exist as part of the support for the main character, Penelope Alvarez.
Some people have expressed concerns that because they are not Hispanic, they will not be able to relate to the series as much as other Hispanic viewers, and I must disagree. I believe that although this series represents Hispanic families and some Hispanic ideologies that will come more naturally to Hispanic viewers, every ethnicity has norms and practices that could be similar. Additionally, it helps viewers gain awareness on issues and perspective from a different ethnicity's standpoint. Overall, this is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys comedy-drama series that appeal to families.