Full disclosure: I’ve only watched the latest installment, there are a few prequels to the millennial story. Tales of the City, the 2019 Netflix version, is based on a newspaper series written in 1978, later made into a book, then made into a series (1993, 1998, 2001), and hello today - the story is still going strong! Netflix picked it up in 2017, and have managed to keep it both true to its original, and relevant to the times.
Based on one of Arminstead Maupin’s books in the series, the 2019 script was written by an all-LGBTQ team, with Maupin sitting in on sessions and present on set. Gotta love their authenticity.
The story follows the same apartment complex, with some old (all played by the original cast members) and some new characters, navigating love and queerness in modern day San Francisco.
Review: I loved it. The story is endearing with hints of mystery and heartbreak. I loved the eclectic mix of characters, defying all discriminationory elements to present a story founded on love and inclusivity. There’s also a lot to learn about the LGBTQ community, sides not often exposed in mainstream media (evidently this series broke new barriers for LGBTQ sex on the small screen). The crew and cast did a great job of bringing an age old story to the modern world - from transgender history to influencer art shows. Nailed it.
Ellen Paige also nailed it.
Fun Fact: did you know that the state of Illinios recently passed a law that transgender history must be taught in schools? In a move to stop bullying, all text books as of next year are to include significant LGBTQ figures who have contributed to US history. Amazing!