Mindy Kaling Shines

Many were introduced to Mindy Kaling as a writer and actor via the hit TV series, The Office US. I on the other hand am not of that herd, I still haven’t gotten around to it, but I’ve heard many great things, so I should enjoy viewing it in a few years’ time.

My introduction to Mindy was the appearance of the hit show The Mindy Project on E4, back in 2012. I was a fifteen-year-old yute, with a lot of time to kill and a yearning for seeing more women of colour on my screen. This was a time before How to Get Away with Murder, Chewing Gum, Insecure and the other brilliant shows that were to come with leading ladies of colour (bar Scandal, that had just begun, and I was living for it!).

Anyway, back to the point, Mindy and I began our one-sided relationship in late 2012 and as a female writer and actor, she has taught me so much and made me laugh along the way. I thought it be fitting to let you all know, why I think she shines, and her works are worth exploring so when you’re done reading this give one of her shows a watch.

The following are my musings on her works and why I think each project is important. Bar one, I’ve watched them all or intend on watching them.

The Office

Now, never have I ever watched the office. I know, imagine admiring someone so much but never having watched what catapulted them into the limelight. Yeah, that’s me, a faux fan right here. However, from having read all of her books, I understand that a lot of hard work, self-doubt and exploration went into her years at The Office. Learning how she got the role and how it changed her life really made me think and shifted my perspective about this writing thing. I don’t believe Mindy and I are cut from the same fabric despite both being chubby women of colour raised by immigrant parents in a Western country. I think we share a lot of similarities, but I gather that being creatives is probably what links us the most.

The Mindy Project

This was my true introduction to Ms Kaling and honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. The Mindy Project is one the shows that has a lot of rewatch value for me and I could probably do an exam on it and ace it. What I like most besides the heaps of comedy is that Mindy is imperfect and annoying, kind of reminds me of myself. I am a smart woman, who’s for the most part sure of myself, I like to think myself a romantic and I believe thew world is my oyster, but some of my personality traits are downright awful.

Mindy doesn’t always make the best decisions, she’s sometimes insecure and she can be quite toxic, however as the show progresses, so does she. She learns and develops, but also stays funny and just annoying enough to forgive. It’s called the Mindy Project, because she truly is a project and by the end of it, she’s a much better person all round, which is credible to the brilliant writing of Mindy and crew.

Additionally, the show had an eclectic mix of characters, with many bringing some sort of comedic element to it. The group dynamic worked, but individuals got their own episodes to shine in their ridiculousness. It’s definitely a show with repeat watching potential because you really learn to love everyone involved, as flawed as they are.

Champions

This short-lived comedy was a cute and funny watch. It was a little bit like Three Men & A Baby, but with its own modern spin. I particularly enjoyed seeing more of Anders Holm as he’s a handsome and charismatic guy. If you’re ever looking for an easy show to watch, that’s light but refreshing, I’d definitely recommend this gem.

Never Have I Ever

The older I’ve gotten, the less interested I am in shows that feature teenagers and high school, and all things adolescence, however, I couldn’t pass up a Kaling production and I’m so glad I didn’t. This show truly gave humour and heart, and showcased people who are less likely to be seen on screen. There was a marrying of cultures and some exploration into culture and identity for first generation kids in the western world. But what I liked most is that the personality of the protagonist was the main aspect that drove the show.

Mindy has a way of bringing out different aspects of humanity in her protagonists that show range, no character is perfect, each is flawed, but it opens up room for development and we can see these characters go through journeys and really learn how to be better people.

Additionally, the show is bridled with so much humour that I can’t contain my laughter. I’m not a brown girl of south Asian descent living in the US, but this show is relatable in show ways and it’s one I never knew I needed and I’m glad it came around when it did.

Overall, Never Have I Ever is a brilliant show full of ups and downs; it has plenty of heart and I can’t wait to see what the next season will bring!

The Sex Lives of College Girls

I’ve watched the trailer and I look forward to the awkward madness that will obviously be riddled with petty dramas and self-discovery. The concept feels relatable, and I know there will be some cringeworthy humour that I’ll most definitely appreciate.

What’s Left to Say?

I really admire the work ethic of Mindy Kaling and her journey into writing, creating, acting, directing, and producing. I appreciate that she has shared her stories with the world and shown us the many different ways in which we can laugh, cry and smile. I always look forward to what’s next and I hope that the more I take in from her and other female writers, the more I’ll learn to master my craft and maybe even succeed at this writing thing.

Originally published at http://theconflictedpen.wordpress.com on November 9, 2021.