Lauren

Lauren is a web series drama that was released in 2012 on YouTube by WIGS, a digital channel offering scripted content. The series, groundbreaking for its time, revolves around addressing sexual assault in the military through the protagonist's experiences. FOX later distributed the series, delivering this hard-hitting and gritty drama into the mainstream.

The compelling series is centred around the character of Lauren, an active duty soldier who is navigating the road of her demanding profession in a male-dominated environment. Lauren is portrayed by Troian Bellisario, widely recognized for her role as Spencer Hastings in the TV series Pretty Little Liars. Bellisario’s portrayal of Lauren is emotive, raw, and unyielding, showcasing the vulnerability and tenacity of her character in a setting that is riddled with challenges and adversity.

The events in the series take a drastic turn when Lauren must confront and address an incident of sexual assault perpetrated by her comrades in the military. This incident leads to a conflict where her loyalty to her service and the pursuit of justice becomes a tightrope walk. The series explores this harrowing journey in the quest for justice, amid an atmosphere of supposed camaraderie and fraternity.

The supporting cast of the series also dives deep into their characters to support the narrative. Jennifer Beals plays Major Jo Stone, a high-ranking officer who is brought in to investigate Lauren's claims. Beals' portrayal of an officer torn between her loyalty to the institution and an attempt to support the victimized Lauren adds an intriguing dynamic to this narrative.

Lauren holds its strength in dealing with a controversial subject matter that has been enveloped with silence and stigma for years. The series showcases the grim realities faced by the victims of sexual assault within military ranks and their struggle for justice against institutional bureaucracy. The character of Lauren is devoid of any superhero cape. She embodies an average soldier embroiled in extraordinary circumstances, fueled by her sense of duty and justice.

The series doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities and nuances of the military institution, setting, and its drastic impact on the lives of the characters involved. As viewers, we are taken through the internal conflicts, the professional setbacks, and the intricate dynamics of power hierarchy within the military ranks. The raw and gritty narrative offers a unique blend of personal turmoil and professional dilemmas in the war for justice.

Lauren also breaks stereotypes about women in the military, rendering a deeper understanding of their struggles, ambitions, and fortitudes. Lauren's character demonstrates resilience, courage, and persistence and becomes a symbol of a rebellious reality refusing to be silenced. The series steps up against the age-old stereotypes, delivering a progressive and challenging perspective on women's roles in typically male-centric environments.

While the series leans heavily towards drama, it doesn't lose sight of the emotional narratives surrounding its characters. The human emotions of fear, anger, frustration, and courage are beautifully intertwined amidst the narrative, giving depth to the characters and echoing the viewers' sentiments.

Created by Jay Rodan, the three-part series has been directed with subtlety and intensity by Lesli Linka Glatter. The screenplay is sharp and poignant, striking a balance between military rigor and powerful human drama. The entire series is meticulously packaged in short episodes, making it an intense yet manageable watch.

The strength of Lauren lies beyond its edgy screenplay, stellar performances, and intense plot. It’s a profound story reflecting the battles for justice against hushed offenses in a system that should symbolize resistance and defiance. Through the character of Lauren, the series conveys an important message about truth, courage and persisting against all odds.

In sum, Lauren is a brave series about one soldier’s fight – not on a battlefield, but within her own institution. It invites viewers to reflect on the harsh realities and confront the sweeping issue of sexual assault in the military. An intense, thought-provoking drama, Lauren is an impeccable blend of storytelling and performances, making it worth a watch.