by Katharine Steers ’22
Awarded with eight Emmy’s, ”Big Little Lies,” is a mysterious, comedic, provocative mini-series. The show, starring Reese Witherspoon (Madeline Mackenzie), Nicole Kidman (Celeste Wright) and Shailene Woodley (Jane Chapman), takes place in Monterey, California.
“Big Little Lies” gives viewers a snapshot of motherhood and the roles women occupy outside of a real housewife narrative where female relationships are shallow, petty and backbiting.
“Big Little Lies” offers something more in depth.  The story centers around a group of mothers, each with their own set of issues. Madeline struggles with her choice to forego a career for motherhood and navigating relationships with her teenage daughter, her ex-husband and his new younger wife.  Renata is the power executive who is rife with insecurity about being a good enough mother. Celeste is the perfect, beautiful and accomplished stay-at-home mom which from the outside has it all together, and finally, there is the young single mother Jane, fighting to support her son.
“Big Little Lies” touches on subjects that are more appropriate for an older age group. However, the theme of friendship throughout the season is something younger viewers could relate to. Despite the antagonism between these women fueled by their insecurities, when one of the  woman’s husbands is unmasked as a violent abuser, the women come together without hesitation to protect their fellow mother. Each of these characters is flawed, and each struggles with insecurity and self-doubt about their life choices. The show is beautifully shot and visually pleasing. 5 out of 5 stars.