In recent years, the television landscape has been flooded with reboots and remakes, tapping into our fond memories and nostalgia. Streaming services like Netflix have been at the forefront, offering updated versions of classic shows. Among these, the revitalized sitcom One Day at a Time stands out as a shining example of how to successfully breathe new life into a beloved series.
One Day at a Time presents a fresh and contemporary take on the original premise, while still evoking those nostalgic feelings that fans cherish. The series revolves around the Alvarez family, which includes single mother Penelope, her two children—Elena and Alex—and her mother Lydia, portrayed by the iconic Rita Moreno. This modern reboot retains key elements from the 70s version, such as the quirky building handyman Schneider and Penelope’s boss, Dr. Berkowitz.
While it is fundamentally a sitcom, the show, produced by television legend Norman Lear, does not shy away from addressing serious issues. The Alvarez family’s Cuban-American heritage is central to the narrative, with Lydia having immigrated from Cuba as a teenager in the early 1960s. Penelope, a veteran of the Afghanistan War, grapples with the challenges of single parenthood while facing her own battles with depression and PTSD. Throughout its two seasons, the series tackles complex issues with the same depth found in shows like black-ish, yet maintains the warmth and humor reminiscent of classic sitcoms.
Penelope, played with grace and strength, bears the burden of her family’s welfare while trying to prove her capabilities as a single parent. Her journey includes discovering the importance of seeking help, leading her to join a therapy group for female veterans, although she initially keeps this a secret from her family.
Elena’s quinceañera serves as the central story arc of the first season, with her mother and grandmother encouraging her to celebrate. Elena is characterized as a passionate advocate for social justice, dedicated to fighting against societal inequalities and environmental issues. Despite her activism, she prioritizes her family and even inspires Penelope to confront workplace inequality when she uncovers that her male counterpart earns more despite being less qualified. The contrasting dynamics between Elena and her traditional grandmother highlight the generational conflicts in their relationship, though love remains at the core.
Schneider, the building’s superintendent, mirrors his original counterpart in spirit. His character represents the privilege of a wealthy, white male, yet he uses his advantages to support the Alvarez family, actively working to confront his privilege. His efforts to learn Spanish to connect with the family symbolize his desire to integrate more fully into their lives.
The series does not shy away from timely topics such as immigration, exemplified in an emotional moment when Lydia recounts her journey to the United States during Operation Pedro Pan. The show also sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans, from experiences shared in therapy to the humorous yet frustrating interactions Penelope has with the VA system. It portrays the multifaceted impact of PTSD on soldiers and their families, while also addressing racism in a poignant episode that resonates with many.
One Day at a Time expertly balances profound themes with humor, ensuring that viewers experience a full range of emotions within each 22-minute episode. Expect to laugh, cry, and reflect on the complexities of life and family.
However, the star of the show is undoubtedly Rita Moreno, who, despite being in her 80s, delivers an unforgettable performance as the sharp-witted and loving grandmother. Her agility and comedic timing are remarkable, making her portrayal of Lydia both heartwarming and entertaining. As the first woman of color to achieve the prestigious EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony), Moreno embodies the essence of a perfect grandmother, bringing depth and vibrancy to the role.
In conclusion, One Day at a Time is the sitcom we didn’t know we needed, skillfully blending modern themes with a nostalgic feel. The characters are relatable and endearing, offering a comforting escape from the stresses of the world. I personally binged the series in a week and have since encouraged others, including my own mother, to join in the viewing. It’s essential to support shows like this to ensure we continue to see more seasons of the Alvarez family in the future.
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Summary
One Day at a Time is a modern sitcom reboot that captures the essence of its predecessor while addressing contemporary issues. With a strong cast led by Rita Moreno, the show balances humor and serious themes, making it a must-watch for viewers seeking both entertainment and depth.