Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny, edgy, heartfelt romcom addresses addiction, love.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Feel Good
What's the Story?
FEEL GOOD follows Mae (Mae Martin), a young comedian negotiating their career, a new relationship, and their sobriety. Mae recently moved to England and is trying to restart their life while honing their comedy skills at the Gag Bin comedy club. But when they meet George (Charlotte Ritchie), they fall passionately in love. It's complicated, given that George is afraid to reveal the relationship to her friends and family. Adding to this is the fact that Mae struggles with alcohol and drug addictions. It doesn't help that their relationship with their parents, Linda and Malcolm (Lisa Kudrow and Adrian Lukis), isn't an easy one, either.
Is It Any Good?
This humor-filled but sensitive, semi-autobiographical romcom offers an honest story about a young comedian who is trying to find their way while still struggling with insecurities brought on by their past. Feel Good doesn't offer an idyllic picture of two people navigating love, but instead highlights Mae and George's flaws, and points to the challenges they must overcome if they have any chance of holding on to each other. They're also extremely likable, as are most of the people around Mae.
It's well written, and what transpires throughout Feel Good isn't completely rooted in Martin's standup routines. As a result, the narrative feels fresh and original. The appearance of great secondary characters, played by notable actors and comics like Sophie Thompson, Phil Burger, and Sindhu Vee, adds to the entertainment value of the show. If you're looking for a mature, heartfelt comedy, this one is worth checking out.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the way Feel Good portrays relationships. Mae and George love each other very much, so why are they struggling? How do they relate to their parents? Friends? Do these relationships have to be so difficult?
Do you think it's necessary for media to show risky behaviors, like heavy drinking or drug use, to get a point across? How does the series portray addiction and trauma?
How do the characters demonstrate courage and empathy? Why are these important strengths to have?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 18, 2020
- Cast : Mae Martin , Charlotte Ritchie , Lisa Kudrow
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Comedy
- Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy
- TV rating :
- Award : BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee
- Last updated : December 15, 2025
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