The Cecelia Ahern novel gets its TV adaptation
There's a lot to love in 'Roar', if you can tune into the absurdity of it all.
Based on Cecelia Ahern's novel of the same name, 'Roar' is Apple TV+'s take on what it means to be a modern-day woman. An anthology series made up of eight separate, self-contained episodes, explores the complexities of womanhood - the good and the bad - through an over-the-top fantasy lens. With an all-star cast including Nicole Kidman and Alison Brie, it makes for an interesting escape from the standard rom-com/drama/sci-fi anthologies we're more familiar with.
Each episode feels like an old folk tale or urban legend, each named as such: 'The Woman Who Was Kept On A Shelf', 'The Woman Who Ate Photographs'. Yes, the title really does reveal what will happen during the episode, so if you never thought you'd see Oscar-winner Nicole Kidman chow down on a bunch of decades-old polaroids, think again.
As with any anthology series such as this, each entry feels completely different from the previous one in terms of style and tone. 'GLOW' creators Liz Flahive and Carly Mensch have helmed the series, but they've recruited an all-star cast (including former 'GLOW' stars Alison Brie, Betty Gilpin and Chris Lowell) and there's also an impressive team behind the camera including Rashida Jones directing the episode starring Cynthia Erivo, 'The Woman Who Found Bite Marks On Her Skin'.
Of course, these fantastical stories all stem from metaphors of real-life issues that women have dealt with. 'Roar' is the type of series you can watch one episode of, and return at a later date to watch another. While some entries deal with heavier topics than others, the overall aim, we guess, is to spark conversation. That time you struggled with guilt while trying to be a working mom; your fears for when you grow old; or that time you dated someone who put you on a pedestal. Some topics might relate to you, others to someone else, which is the beauty of it all.
A blend of drama, fantasy, womanhood and the absurd, 'Roar' is a mostly solid series featuring some big names getting wrapped up in some rather thought-provoking happenings. While it might not be for everyone, and some stories are stronger than others, the series is a positive experience for those looking to dip their feet into something quirkier than normal.
All eight episodes of 'Roar' will be available on Apple TV+ from Friday, April 15.