'My Brilliant Friend' review: Superb HBO show challenges gender roles and sheds light on gender dynamics

Set in Naples, the series showcases a small, rustic town situated away from the city, surrounding the neighborhood of the two protagonists

Elena Ferrante's best-selling novel 'My Brilliant Friend' has now become an Italian TV series on HBO. Unlike most series or movies that distinguish a woman or a girl based on their beauty, the series takes a different turn and distinguishes them based on their intellectual level, their bravery, and the sights they witness.

If you look past the emotional moments, political views and violence that the series holds, it basically shines in gender dynamics that determine how the two girls will become eventually better than men in their own world.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Katie Robbins and Ellen Pompeo previously collaborated on Hulu's limited series 'Good American Family,' which premiered in 2025
3 minutes ago
Created and executive produced by Taylor Sheridan, the drama focuses on a family trying to rebuild their lives after a devastating loss
2 hours ago
Peter McFerrin returned for his next game and went head-to-head with Susan Moskop and Webster Guan
2 hours ago
The June 4 episode of ‘General Hospital’ featured a major departure following a last-minute deal for freedom
3 hours ago
Tommy Egan has conquered Chicago, but a return to New York could change everything
5 hours ago
The animated DC Comics series is famous for its grounded and noir-inspired treatment of Gotham City, and it just unveiled it's release date.
15 hours ago
'Dark Winds' stars Zahn McClarnon and Kiowa Gordon in the leading roles and is based on the Tony Hillerman book series.
16 hours ago
The three-part drama series is based on Alex Hanscombe's memoir 'Letting Go' and is also the subject of a Netflix documentary.
18 hours ago
Torres was locked in a standoff with Timothy McGee's secret child Mateo in the season 23 finale episode 'Sons & Daughters.'
19 hours ago
Shawn Hatosy addresses speculations regarding his character's exit from HBO media drama 'The Pitt'
21 hours ago