The Lessons We Learned From the Women of Big Little Lies

Recommended Videos

Warning: Spoilers for Big Little Lies season 1

The HBO miniseries Big Little Lies got a great deal of critical acclaim last year with its star-studded cast of complex and imperfect women. Based off Liane Moriarty’s novel, we dive into the lives of three mothers who struggle with their lives not matching the idyllic, perfect town they live in.

A new video essay, ScreenPrism dives into the Emmy Award-winning show and the many lessons we took from the short, but impactful season. While we might not have a lot in common with these women, their struggles striving for perfection, painful attempts to hold things together, and devastating experiences with violence is incredibly relatable.

The analysis gives a great look into how the contrasts and relationships between different characters are set up, and what causes them to change over time. It takes time to examine each character’s background and motivations. The impact and relevance of the show wasn’t lost on the actors either, as Reese Witherspoon called the film a “unique privilege.”

Even thought it’s hard to imagine a season 2, we hope to see more shows that don’t shy away from female complexity. What lessons did you take away from Big Little Lies?

(via email, image: screencap)

Want more stories like this? Become a subscriber and support the site!

The Mary Sue has a strict comment policy that forbids, but is not limited to, personal insults toward anyone, hate speech, and trolling.—


The Mary Sue is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more
related content
Read Article ‘Dead Boy Detectives’ Is a Surprisingly Poignant Blend of Gaiman’s Weirdness and CW-Style Teen Drama
Image of George Rexstrew as Edwin and Jayden Revri as Charles in a scene from Netflix's 'Dead Boy Detectives.' Edwin is a white, teenage boy with short, dark hair wearing a grey pin-striped suit, a white buttondown with a wide collar, and a bowtie who's seated behind a desk with a serious expression. Charles stands beside him with his arms folded. He's a mixed-race white and Indian teenage boy with short, wavy dark hair wearing a maroon polo shirt, a gold chain, and black pants. He's smirking.
Read Article ‘Totally Spies!’ Season 7 Brings the Fabulous Trio Back to Our Screens
Totally Spies! Season 7 promo
Read Article ‘X-Men ’97’ Just Gave Us a Look at the Deadliest Anti-Mutant Task Force Yet
Bolivar Trask as a Prime Sentinel in 'X-Men '97'
Read Article Is Lady Mariko the Best Character in ‘Shōgun’? The Answer Is Yes
Lady Mariko, played by Anna Sawai, deep in thought in Shōgun
Read Article How the ‘Invincible’ Season 2 Finale Brought a Viral Meme to Life
Mark Grayson looks at his mask in Invincible season 2
Related Content
Read Article ‘Dead Boy Detectives’ Is a Surprisingly Poignant Blend of Gaiman’s Weirdness and CW-Style Teen Drama
Image of George Rexstrew as Edwin and Jayden Revri as Charles in a scene from Netflix's 'Dead Boy Detectives.' Edwin is a white, teenage boy with short, dark hair wearing a grey pin-striped suit, a white buttondown with a wide collar, and a bowtie who's seated behind a desk with a serious expression. Charles stands beside him with his arms folded. He's a mixed-race white and Indian teenage boy with short, wavy dark hair wearing a maroon polo shirt, a gold chain, and black pants. He's smirking.
Read Article ‘Totally Spies!’ Season 7 Brings the Fabulous Trio Back to Our Screens
Totally Spies! Season 7 promo
Read Article ‘X-Men ’97’ Just Gave Us a Look at the Deadliest Anti-Mutant Task Force Yet
Bolivar Trask as a Prime Sentinel in 'X-Men '97'
Read Article Is Lady Mariko the Best Character in ‘Shōgun’? The Answer Is Yes
Lady Mariko, played by Anna Sawai, deep in thought in Shōgun
Read Article How the ‘Invincible’ Season 2 Finale Brought a Viral Meme to Life
Mark Grayson looks at his mask in Invincible season 2