The show I didn’t know I needed: Jane the Virgin review
CW’s “Jane the Virgin” drew tears from my eyes many times, but they were not always tears of sadness. Often, I would find myself crying from the overwhelming beauty of this magnificently unique show.
When a friend of mine recommended “Jane the Virgin” to me, I was very critical and decided not to watch it at first. This was one of the worst decisions I have ever made. “Jane the Virgin” is perfect for anyone who wants to watch a comedy, drama, or romance. It combines genres and storylines in a seamless manner and I find myself unable to stop smiling during every episode.
I did not think it would be possible for Season Two to be better than Season One, but I was pleasantly surprised. Every episode was a whirlwind of excitement but always ended by answering questions and resolving conflicts, while still managing to leave you on the edge of your seat and excited for the next episode. I did not really realize how utterly insane and original it was until I listened to Jane Villanueva (Gina Rodriguez) and her boyfriend Rafael Solano (Justin Baldoni) sit down with a therapist and relive exactly what they had been through–from the initial accidental artificial insemination, to murder, divorce, proposals, etc.
“Jane the Virgin” takes place in a fantastic reality where every situation is a bit over the top. The show follows the chaotic life of Jane Villanueva (Gina Rodriguez) as she balances her love life, pregnancy, and writing career. Amidst everything else that is going on, there is a focus on Jane’s relationships–with her parents, grandmother, love interests, child, and friends. These relationships bring emotion to the show and keep Jane sane as her life gets turned upside down.
Gina Rodriguez is a dazzling ray of sunshine who always brightens my day. “Jane the Virgin” would not be nearly as wonderful if it were not for her beautiful portrayal of Jane. But it’s not just Rodriguez that makes the show what it is. Every actor is truly astounding and the chemistry they bring to the show is unparalleled. The relationship between Jane’s father, Rogelio de la Vega (Jaime Camil), and her love interest Michael Cordero (Brett Dier) is charming, and it feels like Jane and Xiomara (Andrea Navedo) are a real mother daughter duo.
Despite all that is going on in the show, no character gets left in the dust. They all experience important developments and growth, while still holding onto their values.
But there is so much more to “Jane the Virgin” than the characters and plot. The style of the show is unlike anything else you will find on TV.
Although it is modeled after a telenovela (a Latin American soap opera), “Jane the Virgin” is incredibly original. The quirky narrator, Anthony Mendez, adds an aspect of fun to the show with his comedic commentary. Jane’s constant flashbacks and daydreams also give the show a cute and magical feel by allowing viewers to see inside Jane’s head. Viewers can hear the character’s internal thoughts even though they don’t sit down and talk directly to the camera interview-style, like in shows such as “The Office.”
Although it often employs classic soap opera tropes–such as forbidden romances, evil twins, and people coming back from the dead–“Jane the Virgin” is never boring or predictable. In the midst of all the action and unexpected plot twists, the writers manage to work in inspiring messages and beautiful emotions that give the show its adorable, feel-good quality.
Some are critical of the show, thinking that nothing like this would ever happen in real life, that Jane is too optimistic, or that things too often work out in Jane’s favor. But that’s the whole point of the show. It’s crazy and incredibly unlikely, but that’s what makes it so intriguing.
I would recommend “Jane the Virgin” to anybody and everybody, not only because it is an amazing show that I do not want anyone to miss out on, but because it is an important and progressive show with messages that more people need to see.
“Jane the Virgin” not only features three Latina women as lead roles, but focuses on the family’s heritage, as well as Alba’s experience moving to the United States from Venezuela. Television shows are incredibly influential to their viewers, and strong characters such as Jane can have a major impact on their audiences. Jane is a role model to all girls, and her positivity needs to be more common on television.
It is difficult for me to express through words my love for “Jane the Virgin.” I could go on and on, and still, I would not feel I had done the show justice. The unpredictable plot, adorable style, lovable characters, upbeat music, and sincere messages make “Jane the Virgin” the masterpiece that it is. Seasons One and Two are currently available on Netflix, and Season Three is set to air in October.
Image by CW/Public press release
