Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel starts out slow and seems too cute at first, but by the time the pilot arrives at its (originally) unexpected conclusion, you'll very much have wanted it to go there. Rachel Brosnahan stars as the title character, an overachieving 1950's woman who breezes through college and settles into that era's "perfect" life: a housewife and mother of two who supports her husband's ambitions. This includes his dream of becoming a stand-up comedian, which he pursues at night after working his well-paying office job during the day. Mrs. Maisel uses her baking skills and personality to help get him better times at the Greenwich Village club they frequent, although he ignores the copious notes she takes on how his act could improve. If his telephone call routine sounds familiar, that's because it is. Brosnahan's character could have easily been off-putting like certain Mary Sues, but we learn she's not perfect despite trying hard to appear so. Her charisma and line delivery are so stunning that it's doubtful writer/director Amy Sherman-Palladino (Gilmore Girls) could have imagined a better actress for the part. In supporting roles are veteran actor Tony Shalhoub (Wings, Monk) as her father and Alex Borstein (Family Guy) playing a (likely lesbian) bartender who clashes with our hero. While probably doing some scenery chewing, Borstein is strong and creates a memorable character in a part she hasn't really been given before. Having the series get picked up would almost be worthwhile just to see what she could do, although it's much more than just one grumpy character. Maybe The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel wouldn't have a long run, but at the very least a season should be made . Where the series would go and what it could explore are enticing in a way few pilots are. This show isn't just another comment on how misogynistic the '50s were, but offers to explore an often misunderstood art form while demonstrating how hurtful social constructions can be. And how Palladino-Sherman navigates through many potential pitfalls and a destination we know is coming shows strong writing talent, which too many series forget is very important. This pilot has the best reviews among the others for a reason: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel needs to be made. Hopefully the Amazon execs will listen and pick this one up. Until then, enjoy this delightful opening to what should be much more.