‘Big Mood’ is a new British comedy-drama series that premiered on BBC iPlayer in 2023. Created by and starring Nicola Coughlan and Lydia West, the show follows the lives of two best friends, Birdy (Coughlan) and Tianshi (West), as they navigate the ups and downs of mental health and relationships.
The show is set in London and follows the two friends as they try to deal with their own mental health issues while supporting each other through thick and thin. Birdy is a struggling actress who is dealing with anxiety and depression, while Tianshi is a successful writer who is dealing with a recent breakup and feelings of loneliness.
One of the strengths of ‘Big Mood’ is its ability to explore mental health issues in a sensitive and realistic way. The show doesn’t shy away from addressing the realities of living with mental illness, but instead uses comedy to bring light to the subject and make it more accessible to viewers. Through their struggles with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt, Birdy and Tianshi are able to connect with viewers who may be going through similar experiences.
Another strength of the show is its focus on female friendships. The relationship between Birdy and Tianshi is at the heart of the series, and their friendship is portrayed as a source of strength and support for both characters. The show also explores the importance of female solidarity and how women can support each other through difficult times.
The performances by Coughlan and West are also excellent. Both actors bring a lot of depth and nuance to their roles, and their chemistry on screen is palpable. The supporting cast is also strong, with standout performances by actors such as Tanya Reynolds and Jamali Maddix .
Big Mood, starring Nicola Coughlan and Lydia West, explores mental health and female friendships through comedy
