Much like the comeback story that makes this show sing, Girls5eva has found its second home on Netflix. The third season sees our leading ladies hit the road on a reunion tour in support of their new album, aptly titled Returnity.
Of course, no road trip is without a few bumps (or near crashes). With Dawn (Sara Bareilles) pregnant and full of feelings about it, Summer (Busy Philipps) trying to rebrand herself, and Gloria (Paula Pell) on a journey of sexual discovery, it’s up to Wickie (Renée Elise Goldsberry) to keep them focused (so long as it doesn’t interfere with her spotlight). Their plans—or lack thereof—could make or break their comeback…but who doesn’t love this underdog story?
The writing from showrunner/creator Meredith Scardino is still sharp as ever, throwing in pop culture jokes with reckless abandon. Watch out for some hefty jabs at the current rolling back of women’s rights, our collective obsession with murder documentaries, and even at Netflix themselves. There are a few moments that feel like filler (which can be forgiven in a streaming show) but each episode soon reels you back in with a belly laugh. With the third season, the lines Scardino writes for each character fit like a rhinestone glove and add to the dynamic.
But it’s the cast who truly bring each acerbic zing to life in all the right ways. They’re the glittering disco ball at the center of the show. Sara Bareilles is every part the rockstar she is, playing Dawn with nervous charm. Renée Elise Goldsberry deserves her flowers for stealing every scene she’s in. Busy Philipps is the sparkle that keeps you giggling with her excellent comedic timing. And Paula Pell embodies Gloria with such joy you fully believe that you too can be unapologetically who you are.
Season 3 of Girls5eva encourages the group to look in the mirror (and not just to admire their highlights). By the time the glittering finale rolls around, you’ll really feel like you’ve gone on this transformative journey with them—and, with a wink, you’ll know we all still have a way to go.
Watch Season 3 of Girls5eva now on Netflix.
RIOTUS 