Dollface (2019)

Overview

Dollface stands out as an original production that premiered on Hulu in 2019, blending strong dramatic elements with a distinctive sense of humor. Created by Jordan Weiss, the series offers, from its very first season, an intimate look into the inner world of adult women, the concept of friendship, and the process of self-reinvention. The cast features Kat Dennings in the lead role, while names like Brenda Song, Shay Mitchell, and Esther Povitsky form the backbone of the show. Amanda Rea, noted in the credits, is also among those who contributed to the writing and production process of the project.

One of the show's most notable aspects is its blending of realistic storytelling with surreal and fantastical visual elements. This approach gives Dollface a unique identity, setting it apart from other productions dealing with similar themes. Offering a fast-paced viewing experience thanks to its short episode lengths, the series focuses on a different experience of womanhood or friendship dynamic in each episode.

Plot

Dollface follows a woman who, after being in a long-term relationship during which she drifted away from her female friends, tries to rebuild her life once that relationship ends. As the main character attempts to reconnect with the friendships she once neglected, she is forced to confront both herself and the women around her. This process of confrontation lays bare the complexity, beauty, and at times difficulty of female friendships, which sit at the heart of the series.

As the story progresses, the characters' career goals, love lives, and personal growth journeys also come to the fore. While the series is grounded in realistic dialogue and slices of everyday life, it occasionally breaks from this realism with metaphorical and fantastical scenes. In doing so, the viewer doesn't just follow a story, but also embarks on a symbolic journey into the characters' inner worlds.

Why Should You Watch It?

Dollface stands apart from classic female-friendship-themed productions because of its highly creative approach to storytelling. Its script structure, which combines realism with fantastical elements, offers viewers an unusual experience. In particular, the fact that friendships among women are portrayed realistically rather than idealized is one of the series' greatest strengths.

The cast's performances also play a major role in making the show worth watching. Kat Dennings' charismatic and heartfelt performance makes her character's emotional journey believable. Each supporting character adds depth to the story with their own distinct personality. The show's visual aesthetics, color palette, and music choices are also among the elements that strengthen its overall atmosphere.

Thanks to its short episode lengths, the series also offers a practical option for those with busy viewing schedules. Each episode focuses on a specific theme or problem within itself, giving viewers a satisfying narrative experience.

Who Is It Suitable For?

Dollface is an ideal choice especially for viewers who enjoy content about female friendships, personal growth stories, and modern relationships. The production, which addresses the uncertainties, career anxieties, and shifting social circles experienced by people in their thirties in a realistic tone, may resonate more strongly with viewers close to that stage of life.

At the same time, the series offers an enjoyable watch for those open to surreal and experimental styles of storytelling. The visual elements that go beyond the classic comedy-drama format keep the viewer's attention engaged. However, for those who prefer purely realistic and simple narratives, these fantastical touches may occasionally feel too abstract.

Young adults, female viewers, and those interested in friendship-themed stories will find characters in Dollface in whom they can see something of themselves.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Portrays female friendships in a realistic and multidimensional way

2. An original narrative style supported by surrealist visual elements

3. A strong cast and convincing performances

Cons:

1. The fantastical elements may feel distracting to the narrative for some viewers

2. Some episodes suffer from pacing inconsistencies

Genre and Tone

While positioned within the comedy-drama genre, the series blends humor with deep emotional themes. Tonally, it sometimes carries a light and entertaining air, while at other times offering quite introspective and thought-provoking moments. This balance allows the series to deliver a viewing experience that is both entertaining and meaningful.

The surrealist scenes add a different layer to the show's tone, pushing the narrative beyond the ordinary drama-comedy mold. In this respect, Dollface offers viewers an atmosphere that feels unusual yet familiar.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The short length of the episodes allows the series to be watched smoothly. This structure enables viewers to become easily immersed in the story and to progress between episodes without feeling disjointed. Following the characters' development throughout the season provides a satisfying experience for viewers.

Similar Productions

• Broad City

• Girls

• Insecure

• The Bold Type

• Grown-ish

• Sex and the City

Final Assessment

Dollface stands out as a production that approaches female friendships with a creative narrative language, offering both entertainment and emotional depth within its genre. The combination of realistic character development and surrealist visual elements gives the series a distinctive identity. Offering a comfortable viewing experience with its short episode lengths and fluid storytelling, Dollface is well-suited to win over female viewers in particular, as well as those interested in stories about personal growth. For anyone looking for a heartfelt and sincere production made in a different style, it deserves a place on the watchlist as an option worth considering.