Orange Is the New Black

As much as people praise Breaking Bad for having great character arcs, I would argue that the many of the numerous ones on OITNB are far more compelling, and the show pulls this off while deftly exploring a large number of social issues with tact and nuance. The Prison politics aren't always the most interesting and can vary in quality from season to season, but when the show digs in to the exploration of the characters, it really starts to shine, especially in it's tear-jerking final season.

okay series

This rating is based on the first five episodes of the first season.

This is the story. Where every stereotype you can imagine. Are picked to live in a prison. See what happens when they stop being polite. And start getting real! Kohan is at it again with another yuppie princess trying to survive alongside a convenient assortment of one dimensional characters. It sticks to the same writing format that made Weeds so mediocre - just good enough to watch the next episode while simultaneously leaving me unfulfilled. Jenji seems to have mastered that little talent.

Surprisingly great. The first episode is front loaded with garbage but once that is over the show only occasionally falters when too much time is spent with Jason Biggs outside of the prison.

The first two seasons were really refreshing and different. And there are still some interesting backgrounds for minor characters throughout, but there's basically no interesting through-line as of Season 4.

This show's strength lies within its ability to make you emotionally invested in a huge ensemble of secondary and tertiary characters, while simultaneously shitting profusely on its protagonist and exposing her privilege (even within the confines of a prison). There is a character here for everyone to like and empathize with, and that is what the creators are going for. Season 2 is really the standout, but there are a myriad of memorable moments spread throughout its entirety.

A second tier show, suitably entertaining but nothing special.

Recently rewatched, so hard hitting even now several years later. The most beautiful characters and storylines, so real and raw but perfectly balanced with the ease and joy of life and being human.

Nice.