Web Series Wednesday – Gay Mean Girls

By: MJ Asuncion

What? Gay Mean Girls

By? Created and Directed by Heyishi Zhang

Why Should I Watch?

Based on the viral short film by the same writer/director, the Canadian web series Gay Mean Girls first premiered in June 2019. The first season, comprising of eight episodes, is currently available with Season Two premiering soon.

Gay Mean Girls is a dramedy anthology web series that examines issues within the LGBTQ+ community through the coming-of-age stories of teens. Season One expands on the short film’s story, adding to the events and further developing the characters. As a member of the Prom committee, Lucy Ching (Vicky Li) steps out of her comfort zone and pledges to establish Gay Prom Royalty. Though her initial reason is to impress her best friend Miranda (Hannah Raine), a lesbian feminist YouTuber who she secretly harbors a crush on, she slowly realizes the true importance of her decision for herself and for others.

The season takes us on Lucy’s journey of self-discovery as she comes to terms with her sexuality, struggles with a shift in her long-time friendship and learns to accept that she is part of a racialized community. Through awkward moments, hysterical outbursts and self-realization, she navigates the social constructs of her high school and faces off against Clara (Jensen Porter), the uptight president of the prom committee.

Lucy has always relied on Miranda in prior situations but in order to make Gay Prom Royalty a reality, Lucy reluctantly enlists the support of the Gay Straight Alliance led by enthusiastic President Anita (Lane Webber). She also forms a friendship with Jamie (Jordan Li), the school’s cool, non-binary drug dealer and Anita’s closest friend. Through these new relationships and experiences her confidence grows and she begins to branch out on her own.

Gay Mean Girls is a series that is easily binged and will keep you entertained. It explores the topics of identity, feminism, intersectionality and the experience of racialized teens. The themes are not unique on their own, but the series weaves them well together with imaginative storytelling and an interesting cast of characters. All the key creatives on the series are women, with the writer’s room being composed entirely of queer women of color. The team also spoke with a non-binary consultant when writing Jamie’s character.

The second season will expand on the themes of season one with a different group of students, but the good news is there will be some recurring characters. It is set to take place the following school year with student journalist Savannah Lin (Jenna Phoa) entangled in social justice “safe space” dynamics and betrayal. Season Two will also introduce us to Jenn (Robyn Matuto), Skye (Vicky To), Amy (Lydia Lowe) and Katie (Kat Khan).

Where Can I Watch?

The first season is currently available on YouTube, with the second season coming later this month!

Follow on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaymeangirls/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gaymeangirls