Review of Alma's Not Normal

It's seldom I laugh at UK sitcoms so it was refreshing to find something as different and well written as Alma's Not Normal. It's not an easy watch with many uncomfortable moments but that's it's strength. Drawing on the semi autobiographical life experiences of Alma we're taken into her dysfunctional life and struggles. At first the brash comedy may appear slapstick but once the viewer is drawn in, the emotionally demanding dark social satire kicks in. Almost a tragidrama yet with hilarious, explicit, brave and honest depictions which only someone who has gone through such experiences could rightfully portray in such an observant and rollicking manner. The acting is superb especially from Sophie WIllan the main protagonist, Siobhan Finnerhan and Lorraine Ashbourne who portray the heroin addicted arsonist mum "whose had more social workers than crack pipes" and the lascivious, animal print clad grandmother respectively. It raises arguments about the social welfare system in the UK and asks questions, without being polemic, about the empowerment of women through their choices. In Alma's case, her decision to become a sex worker to enable her to fulfill her ambitions. Interesting Willan has observed that she has only encountered 'comfortably off' middle class feminists who criticise her choice. You could question what those critical feminists may have done in her place to survive the crap hand she was dealt with. Her success today is a testament to her decisions.