Mary + Jane

Mary + Jane is a charming, single-camera sitcom that aired on MTV in 2016. The series takes a fresh look at the lives of two female entrepreneurs and best friends trying to navigate their way through the evolving world of marijuana delivery start-ups in Los Angeles.

The show follows the dynamic duo of Paige and Jordan, portrayed by Jessica Rothe and Scout Durwood, respectively. They are millennial best friends who run an all-female weed delivery service aptly named "Mary & Jane." The name is an obvious but clever nod to the duo's business product—marijuana. Rothe and Durwood's performances are compelling, their natural chemistry on-screen facilitating much of the light, comedic charm the show exudes.

While Mary + Jane centres on the marijuana industry, it is not merely a stoner comedy. Beyond the cannabis-infused shenanigans, the show delves deeper, exploring the lives, relationships, aspirations, and struggles of two young women trying to establish their business in a predominately male-dominated industry. The characters of Paige and Jordan are relatable and well-rounded. They’re ambitious, hardworking, and they understand the challenges they face in their line of work, but they’re always ready to rise to the occasion.

The plotlines are engaging, drawing out the hilarity of everyday situations and plugged with culturally relevant social commentary. This is achieved through both the flawless dialogue and the wacky scenarios the characters often find themselves in. It's an endearing nod to the realities of entrepreneurship, growth, friendships, and relationships. Mary + Jane celebrates the highs, lows, and ludicrousness of trying to establish a start-up, all while navigating through their personal lives.

Despite the potentially controversial subject matter, Mary + Jane manages to sensitively handle the portrayal of marijuana usage, showcasing it as part of their business, but not necessarily the focal point of their lives. The show's depiction of marijuana is paralleled with alcohol - just as some unwind with a glass of wine at the end of the day, others might choose marijuana instead.

The show's setting, Los Angeles, is another character in itself. The diverse, vibrant city adds to the overall flavor of the series, the hustle and bustle resonating with the energy of the two main characters. L.A.'s progressive and forward-thinking society is aptly reflected throughout the series.

Unique to the style of MTV, Mary + Jane maintains a youthful, dynamic edge, displayed through the show’s pacing, vibrancy, and soundtrack that adds to its overall appeal. The show also includes appearances from guest stars like Seth Green and Missi Pyle, adding a certain level of unruliness and fun to the series.

In terms of the technical aspects of the series, the camera work is smooth, the dialogues are snappy, and the plot pacing is generally well-maintained. The art direction and production design also deserve mention. The series has a distinct visual aesthetic that complements the colour and character of the narrative. There’s a brightness to the show, both visually and tonally, that keeps audiences engaged and invested.

At its core, Mary + Jane is just as much about friendship as it is about business. The series delves into the complexities of maintaining a friendship when business is involved, and likewise, how personal relationships can impact a business venture. The heartbeat of the show is the bond between Paige and Jordan, their kinship articulated with sincerity and unabashed honesty.

Intriguingly, the series deals with many themes such as female empowerment, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and the influence of social trends, all the while being packaged as a light-hearted comedy. It subtly broaches these topics, weaving them seamlessly into the narrative, making it relatable for a considerable portion of its viewers.

All in all, Mary + Jane is a delightful, humorous, and thought-provoking sitcom with much to offer. The series' treatment of its subjects, characters, and themes is skillful and smart. While the series only aired for a single season, Mary + Jane effectively uses humor, heart, and a bit of high times to depict the lives of two women navigating the modern world of business, one delivery at a time.