Watch Derry Girls

Derry Girls is a comedy television series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. Set in Northern Ireland in the 1990s, the show follows a group of teenage girls as they navigate adolescence amidst the backdrop of the Troubles, a period of conflict and political unrest in the region.

The main character is Erin, a witty and headstrong girl who attends a Catholic girls' school in Derry. She is joined by her best friends Clare, Michelle, and Orla, as well as her English cousin James, who stands out as the only boy in the school.

As the group of friends navigates the challenges of growing up, they find themselves constantly getting into trouble, whether it be with school authorities or with the IRA, the paramilitary organization actively operating in the region. Along the way, they encounter a variety of colorful characters, including Erin's parents, whose marriage is often rocky but ultimately strong, and their school principal Sister Michael, who dispenses dry wit and sarcasm in equal measures.

Tensions between Catholics and Protestants often come to a head in the show, providing an undercurrent of seriousness to the otherwise lighthearted scenes. The show handles these subjects with sensitivity, never shying away from the reality of the time period while also incorporating humor and levity.

The acting in the show is top-notch, with each of the main cast members delivering standout performances. Tara Lynne O'Neill plays Erin's mother Mary, a woman who is both fiercely protective of her family and perpetually exasperated by them. Tommy Tiernan is Erin's father Gerry, whose generally laid back demeanor belies a deep love for his family and a desire for the world to be a better place. Ian McElhinney plays Granda Joe, Erin's eccentric grandfather who enlivens many scenes with his offbeat behaviors. Anthony Boyle plays David, the hapless boyfriend of Michelle who never quite seems to get it right. Siobhan McSweeney plays Sister Michael, the school principal who has seemingly seen and heard it all, and rarely finds anything amusing.

The show is also notable for its impressive soundtrack, featuring a wide range of songs from the era that perfectly capture the nostalgia of the era. From catchy pop songs to angst-filled rock anthems, the music serves as an important component of the show's overall atmosphere.

Overall, Derry Girls is a hilarious and heartwarming coming-of-age story that tackles serious issues with sensitivity and humor. Its strong cast, clever writing, and nostalgic soundtrack make it a standout addition to the Netflix catalogue.

Derry Girls is a series that ran for 3 seasons (19 episodes) between January 4, 2018 and on Netflix