My So-Called Life

Over the weekend, my sister and I watched the first three episodes of My So-Called Life (one of her favorite shows). There weren't any startling revelations, but a few observations.

First, when Once and Again (a show by the same producers) originally aired, I didn't make a connection between that show's oldest daughter and Angela Chase. The similarities in appearance and attitude struck me, as though the original character was so good, she had to be reincarnated.

Second, watching commercial-free television is very nice. Of course, for the price of one season, it better be. With D's birthday a month away, the series on DVD would make a great gift.

Third, we both thought most of the characters were believable, but my sister had a problem with Brian Krakow, the brainy, outcast classmate. She doesn't think any real teenage boy would ride his bike aimlessly in the street at night, sit in a tree and read a book by flashlight or have that hairstyle. I say kids like Krakow really exist, hair and all, in my humble opinion.

And finally, I'm amazed how the show still resonates with me. When I first saw it nine years ago, I really only identified with the teenagers. I didn't completely grasp the parents' point of view. They were adults after all. But now, I "get" where they are coming from. I can empathize more. It must be a sign of old age.