Pilot Review: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon)
Premiered March 17

I was sure that I had already reviewed this pilot back when it started in March, but then I realized that I had just written a piece about each of the stars’ previous roles for Jewcy. I opted to rewatch this pilot in advance of the show’s full season release this past Wednesday, and I’m pleased to say that it held up well on a second viewing, something I rarely experience with the amount of television I watch these days. Rachel Brosnahan, best known for her Emmy-nominated turn on “House of Cards,” owns this episode from the start, effortlessly rattling off a comedy routine at her own wedding. There’s a lot of Jewish humor which I think works pretty well, and while it’s over-the-top, I didn’t find it to be too absurd. The fact that Midge made a brisket every night to give to the man in charge of timeslots at the club is hilarious, and I hadn’t remembered just how intense a representation of the 1950s this show is, with Midge essentially not sleeping all night so that she could look made-up first thing in the morning. Giving her husband notes on his routine showed her commitment to him, something he clearly didn’t reciprocate. I’m not sure if Michael Zegen, best known for “Rescue Me,” will play a part in this show going forward, but I like the idea of Tony Shalhoub, who I just saw on Broadway in “The Band’s Visit,” and Marin Hinkle from “Two and a Half Men,” playing her parents. I also don’t know much Lenny Bruce, played by Luke Kirby from “Rectify,” will factor into the show either, but I’m very excited to see how Midge and Susie, who has no idea what she’s in for, will work together to hone her routine that won’t involve any topless incidents, arrests, or briskets needed to get her a good timeslot.

How will it work as a series? Just because she’s been dumped by her husband doesn’t mean Midge is going to change all of what she is, meaning that she’ll still try to impress the rabbi and play the part of the 50s mother. I’m intrigued to see how this works, and I’m optimistic that it’s going to be very entertaining and creative.
How long will it last? Back when it premiered, this show was picked up by its network for two seasons, which is quite impressive. Reviews seem to be pretty good too, so I see no reason why this show wouldn’t end up running for a while, though a renewal for season three probably won’t come for a while.

Pilot grade: B+