Exploring love and loss in the new comedy series Laid
In a world where romantic comedies often tread familiar ground, the upcoming series Laid promises to offer a fresh perspective on love and relationships. Starring the talented Stephanie Hsu, known for her remarkable performances in Everything Everywhere All at Once and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, this show delves into the complexities of modern romance through a unique and whimsical lens.
The premise: A comedic twist on romance
At the heart of Laid lies an intriguing premise: a young woman named Ruby discovers that all her former lovers are dying in peculiar ways, and the order of their demise corresponds to her romantic history. This darkly comedic setup serves as a backdrop for Ruby’s journey of self-discovery and reflection. As she navigates her past relationships, viewers are invited to ponder the intricacies of love, loss, and the lessons learned along the way.
Character depth and relatability
Hsu’s portrayal of Ruby is both engaging and relatable. The character, an event planner in her 30s, embodies the struggles many face in their quest for love. As Ruby grapples with her past, she reflects on her choices, leading to moments of humor and vulnerability. Hsu emphasizes that while Ruby may seem selfish or narcissistic at times, her journey resonates with anyone who has ever questioned their romantic decisions. “Love is such a mystery,” Hsu notes, highlighting the universal nature of Ruby’s experiences.
The creative vision behind Laid
Under the direction of Nahnatchka Khan, known for her work on Fresh Off the Boat and Young Rock, Laid aims to balance humor with heartfelt moments. Khan’s vision for the series is to explore the complexities of modern relationships while maintaining a comedic tone. The challenge lies in addressing serious themes without losing the lighthearted essence of a rom-com. As Khan explains, the writers’ room utilized multiple whiteboards to keep track of the intricate storylines, ensuring that each character’s journey is both coherent and engaging.
Romantic comedies in a modern context
Hsu’s passion for the genre shines through as she draws inspiration from classic rom-coms. By revisiting beloved films like When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle, she aims to infuse Laid with the charm and wit that defined the golden age of romantic comedies. However, Hsu acknowledges that love today is more complicated than it was in those films. “We’re outside of the golden age of Nora Ephron rom-coms,” she reflects, emphasizing the need for stories that resonate with contemporary audiences.
A journey of growth and self-discovery
As Ruby navigates her past relationships, she embarks on a journey of growth and self-discovery. The series invites viewers to reflect on their own romantic histories, encouraging a deeper understanding of love’s complexities. Hsu hopes that audiences will relate to Ruby’s experiences, recognizing that the path to love is often filled with uncertainty and self-exploration. Ultimately, Laid promises to deliver a heartfelt and humorous exploration of what it means to find love in today’s world.
