If what W&G was meant to do was recapture a bygone moment, then it was not quite successful. If it was meant to help a generation reconnect with old icons, it came closer to the mark. But, if it was meant to provide a catharsis in a devastating, depressing, dystopian moment in American history, then it may prove to be the most important television offering of the Fall.
When a group is hurting, feels powerless, and is routinely dehumanized, an age old coping mechanism is to fight back with fantasy, with camp, with humor, and with burlesque. If we can laugh at pain, we can endure it. If we can wink at hopelessness, we can resurrect hope. If we can imagine the Beast being defeated, we can transcend some of our fear of the Beast (the monster, the ghosts, the demons, the little green folk with ray guns, etc.).
Transgender folk in military targeted? Mention Caitlin Jenner in charades.
DOJ suggests gay folk are not protected by civil rights laws? Jacks makes out with a Secret Service agent.
45 cozies up to the homophobic religious right? Grace leaves a Make America Gay Again hat in the Oval.
The struggle will be long and arduous; a little laughter and self affirmation will help us endure it...and will also remind us what the struggle is for and why we cannot give up.
Comedy reboot = B minus.
Social Commentary = A minus.
Much needed healing catharsis = A PLUS.
Thank you Will & Grace (& Karen and Jack)!
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