Unorthodox [Netflix]

An emotionally powerful and smartly written mini-series, mainly in Yiddish!, that, unlike many of Netflix's series, was just of the right length (4 episodes) with no bloat and no unnecessary tangents. A superb cast led by the utterly fascinating and totally engaging Shira Haas, this miniseries not only shone a spot light on the Hasidic Jewish community but also dove unflinchingly into the exploration of self-actualisation, gender equality, love and marriage, and communal bonds. Created by an all women behind-the-screen team, this series created an uniquely strong and individualistic character in Esther Shapiro nee Schwartz aka Etsy whose journey of self-realisation we follow closely over four hours. Sometimes intimately but never exploitvely nor removed. There were no outright finger-pointing here and almost all the main characters were fully realised, each with their own faults, demons, way of thinking and strengths. Ultimately, we end up sympathising with  all of them - yes even the Moishes, "There's always a Moishe" - and that is the power of great writing and directing. The last hour of this series was a powerful, roller coaster of emotions that culminated with a cathartic and satisfying end for us and for Etsy. This was not necessarily an escapism sort of TV for the quarantine age, but if you are looking for quality binge - looking at you Tiger King - you cannot get better than Unorthodox.