Watch Sort of

Sort of is a new Canadian dramedy series from CBC Gem that explores the life of a gender-fluid millennial in Toronto. Premiered in 2021, the show is created and written by Bilal Baig, who also stars in the lead role of Sabi Mehboob. The series follows Sabi, who identifies as non-binary and is trying to figure out their place in the world. Sabi works as a bartender/server at a restaurant run by their best friend, Max (Gray Powell), and lives with Max and his girlfriend, Georgia (Amanda Cordner). Sabi is constantly navigating their relationships with Max and Georgia, who are both straight and cisgender, as well as dealing with their own insecurities and anxieties about their identity.

Throughout the series, Sabi goes on a journey of self-discovery, exploring their identity through dating and relationships, navigating work challenges and societal expectations. The show tackles timely and important themes, including queerness, gender identity, mental health, and cultural identity.

One of the strengths of Sort of is the way it authentically portrays diverse perspectives and experiences. Baig, who is queer, South Asian, and Muslim, draws on their own life experiences to create layered and nuanced characters that defy stereotypes. Sabi is a complex character who is not solely defined by their gender identity but also by their relationships and their struggles with anxiety and depression.

The supporting characters in Sort of are also richly drawn, with Max and Georgia serving as important foils to Sabi's experiences. Max is a loyal and well-meaning friend but often puts his foot in his mouth when it comes to understanding Sabi's gender identity. Georgia, on the other hand, is more open-minded than Max, but sometimes falls into the trap of trying too hard to be an ally.

The show's writing is sharp and witty, with a cadence that feels true to the millennial experience. The dialogue is peppered with pop culture references and slang, but also tackles weighty philosophical and existential questions. The humor often serves as a way to explore complex issues in a lighthearted way, but the show is never afraid to delve into darker emotions when necessary.

Overall, Sort of is a refreshing and timely addition to the landscape of Canadian television. Its focus on a non-binary protagonist is both important and groundbreaking, but the show's appeal goes beyond its politics. At its core, Sort of is a heartfelt exploration of identity and relationships that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find themselves in a complex and uncertain world.

Sort of is a series that ran for 3 seasons (24 episodes) between October 5, 2021 and on CBC Gem