Connecting...

Connecting... is a heartwarming, often humorous, and deeply relatable series that debuted on NBC in 2020. The scripted series is a brilliant take on our existing global circumstances, particularly navigating through the new normal in the wake of a worldwide pandemic, and cleverly highlights the power and significance of human connections in the face of existential crises.

The show, rather unprecedented for the context it’s situated in, is set in the apocalyptic backdrop of Covid-19. However, rather than feeding into an atmosphere of dread and despair, Connecting... explores the idea of individuals coming together, albeit virtually, to find solace and companionship in the otherwise dire circumstances.

The plotline revolves around a close-knit circle of friends striving to stay in touch, catch up on each other's lives and retain some semblance of normalcy despite the quarantine constraints. This concept resonates powerfully, given that the entire world can empathize with the characters' plight as the pandemic has narrowed down human interaction to mostly digital platforms.

The primary mode of communication used by the group is video conferencing, offering audiences with a succession of split screens representing each character's perspective, an innovative approach to story-telling, befitting for a chronicle of life in the digital age. Each episode spans approximately 30 minutes, and through these short-lived yet deeply engaging instances, we are brought closer to the unfolding narratives in each character's life.

The ensemble cast brings together an intriguing mix of personalities that light up the screen, perfectly capturing the premise of individuals staying connected while physically apart. There's a well-thought-out diversity in the characterization, making the friendships feel genuine and multi-faceted. The resilience with which they combat their loneliness and adjustment issues during isolation only enhances this sense of authenticity. The excellent script and a talented cast add to the charm of the series, bringing refreshing humor and infectious energy to the screen.

Connecting... is more than just comic relief and feels-good moments; it's about shared experiences, navigating transitions, and exhibiting tenacity in the face of hardship. It captures the essence of enduring human spirit and the tenacity to overcome seeming insurmountable challenges, a chronicle of how life must go on, even in the bleakest of times. It promises emotional depth, with episodes touching on subjects like mental health and the pivotal role human connection plays in individual sanity and well-being.

What sets Connecting… apart is its unique format which, along with its topical theme, captures moments of the present-day reality. Offering an amusing nudge to the imminent reminders of our day-to-day life in quarantine, the series incorporates quintessential pandemic-related phenomena such as toilet paper shortages, the confusing protocols of social distancing, and the insecurities associated with the uncertain times.

The experiment of conducting a sitcom through video conferencing is an interesting spin, presenting a perfect blend of creativity, novelty, and relevance. It brilliantly highlights the significance of the smallest aspects of our lives like shared laughter, familiar banter, and even sympathetic tears that we often take for granted, but whose absence can be so noticeable when faced with isolation.

One noteworthy aspect is its crafty production design. Since the entire show is shot remotely, the actors' real-life homes are used as the setting, creating a more relatable and realistic tableau for the audience. The actors are also responsible for their costumes, makeup, and camera work, further enhancing the authentic, almost unscripted feel of the series.

In conclusion, Connecting... is a poignant and timely reminder of the importance of togetherness in trying times, a concept aptly captured through its relatable characters and their intertwined lives. Through a blend of comedy, drama, emotion, and reality, it's a testament to the human capacity to adapt, cope, and find joy even in unprecedented situations. While it may lack the usual trappings of mainstream television such as grand sets and extravagant narratives, Connecting... is a beautifully layered, understated tribute to the power of human connection and resilience.