The 50s are something like the Middle Ages of the 20th century. At least when it comes to the role of women. And looking back on this time is only somewhat bearable because you know that at some point the sixties will come and with it the Age of Enlightenment will begin and things will at least gradually get better. Nevertheless, it is difficult to watch how the highly talented chemist Elizabeth Zott (Brie Larson) is forced to take part in beauty pageants in the laboratory where she works instead of being allowed to do her own research, how she loses her job while pregnant, how men steal their research results. The fact that she then becomes the star of a cooking show is just the consolation prize.
Apple had already secured the rights to Bonnie Garmus’ “A Question of Chemistry” before the great novel became a bestseller. And although fans of the book will miss some of the nuances of the story, the complexity and cleverness of the storytelling, the series proves to be a nice link between “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Funny Woman”. (Apple TV+)
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