This week, I decided to take up a series that came on Comedy Central one night after I finished watching the infamous We’re the Millers: Schitt’s Creek. I figured that I’d give it a shot after seeing clips here and there on Instagram and TikTok…and because I am a fan of Eugene Levy, co-creator of the show and a main lead. I’m a tough critic when it comes to comedy, so I was pleased to see that Netflix tagged the show as “witty” and “irreverent” before clicking the play button.
Schitt’s Creek is a sitcom that centers around the Rose family, a (formerly) filthy-rich bunch that loses almost everything, including their mansion and priceless belongings, after a corrupt business manager embezzles their business empire, Rose Video. In Episode 1 called “Our Cup Runneth Over”, the United States government lets the freshly broke family retain just one “asset” – a town called Schitt’s Creek that Johnny Rose (Eugene Levy) bought as a joke for his son David (Dan Levy).
The Roses move into Schitt’s Creek, where they are left to figure out how to get back on their feet. But, the culture shock is overwhelming as they settle into the town’s motel and start to interact with the locals – especially the eccentric mayor Roland Schitt. Forced to live in not-so picturesque conditions that don’t include their typical staff of servants, the family looks to sell the town after reaching their wit’s end (after only a few days). Unfortunately, they soon find out that it was on the market for 20 years before Johnny’s purchase. With the town’s abysmal appeal and next-to-nothing worth, the Roses realize they’re going to be stuck in Schitt’s Creek and have to make a new home for themselves there (while in total denial about their slim chance of ever returning to their previous lifestyle).
I only watched 3 episodes from the first season so far, though I’m glad to say it’s growing on me bit by bit. I thought the initial two episodes were a little slow, but it could just be me because I am a thriller-junkie and need constant suspense. Plus, there was some serious groundwork that needed to be laid in the beginning for the plot and humor to develop. By the third episode though, it started to pick up. As the Rose family comes to terms with the death of their materialistic habits, clever sarcasm and subtle, yet jokey raunchiness peppered the character’s conversations with each other. I must admit too, it was quite amusing to see the “adversity” that the ever-so-pampered Alexis and David start to face, alongside their mother Moira – a former soap opera star – who is full of dramatics off-screen as well.
I am really looking forward to continuing with this series and have hope for the further growth of the storyline. The episode format is quite digestible, as each one is only 21 minutes, so who knows…maybe Schitt’s Creek will be the source of my next binge watch!
This is another show I have been recommended to watch but just haven’t been able to find the willpower to hit “play”! I am actually really glad you wrote a review on this show because SO many people have been talking about it, I was beginning to wonder what it was really about/if it was any good. After reading your post, I am still unsure as to if I will give it a try or not. I hope you continue to like the show and it will only get better for you!
Thanks Ashley! Yeah, I’d say Schitt’s Creek isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. It reminds me of Shameless by Shotime (that’s actually on Netflix as well) quite a lot. I actually like that show too. I’m still at the very beginning, but I’m planning to stay in my critique phase for a good while. If there’s anything I start to not like with the plot or I completely quit Schitt’s Creek, I’ll definitely update this post with some reasoning and additional commentary!
This sounds like such a good show. I too have gotten recommendations to watch it, but never got around to it. I’m also an action junkie when it comes to television series. However, after reading your review, I think I may like it and will give it a try. It definitely seems different. The fact that episodes are only 21 minutes is a huge plus as a college student with lots of work to do. Wishing you the best as well with your watching!
Yes, the episodes only being 21 minutes long is great because I can take a short break and trick my brain that I did a lot of relaxing! I’m hearing it gets better as it goes on and I find its storyline very unique as well. I’ll be doing more reviews soon so stay tuned!