The sitcom genre is, to say the least, fairly abundant. It’s difficult to distinguish yourself from the myriad of sitcoms that are released every year. After all, there are only so many new situations people can put their characters in until they all start feeling stale. Many shows throw in massive names or come up with a killer premise with the hopes that they’ll be one of the few sitcoms people will remember. Abbott Elementary doesn’t really have either. It takes place in an underprivileged elementary school and is about the relationships the teachers there have with the school, the students, and with each other. It’s a solid concept, albeit not mind-blowingly inventive. The ensemble is fantastic, but nobody is overwhelmingly famous (yet). But neither really matters, because Abbott Elementary stands head and shoulders above most sitcoms regardless. This is thanks to this show mastering what is arguably the most important element of any TV show: writing. Thanks to its clever writing, trope subversion, and most of all, its excellent character dynamics, Abbott Elementary is thoroughly enjoyable and memorable, and a show I highly recommend.

The character writing of this show is quite strong, as you come to adore each character and their quirks. This is a far more character-driven show than a plot-driven one, and due to the excellent characters we’re blessed with, I can only see this as a positive. From the sunny and naive Janine (Quinta Brunson) to the vain yet outrageously hilarious principal Ava (Janelle James), each character is relentlessly delightful to watch onscreen. Their dynamics amongst one another are equally riveting. In particular, Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph) and Melissa (Lisa Ann Walter) are such a fun duo, and I genuinely adore their friendship. This season is also excellent at balancing the will they/won’t they dynamic between Janine and Gregory (Tyler James Williams) with fun platonic moments that bolster their camaraderie. Despite clearly being our protagonist’s love interest, Gregory has much more to his character than being in her orbit. He’s learning to let loose a little and open himself up to the kids he’s teaching, and he has so many fun subplots with each of our main cast members. I think this perfectly exemplifies what has to be my favorite part about this show. Even though many of its characters could be mere tropes, they all feel fully realized and lived-in thanks to this expert writing. And because you know these characters, the jokes hit that much harder. I didn’t find the first few episodes terribly funny, but after I got a sense for who each character was as a person, I had a lot more fun with this show.

While the character writing is great, what really makes this show as hilarious as it is is the acting. Each actor knocks it out of the park with their comedic timing. This is especially true of Janelle James and Sheryl Lee Ralph, who both practically invented delivery. However, every cast member has priceless facial expressions and exquisite line reading help make this show effortlessly hilarious. The ensemble fires off on all cylinders comedically yet still manages to be deeply compelling on the rare occasion this wonderfully fluffy show dips in toes in sincere, heavier emotions.

While its technical aspects are nothing noteworthy, incredible acting and skillful writing are all this show needs to be as entertaining as it is. However, what elevates this show to make it an absolute must-see show (and what may be the biggest reason it’s gotten the following it has) is how relentlessly heartfelt it is. Abbott Elementary is such a warm hug of a show, and you wind up being charmed and even inspired by the goodness in each of its characters. After a long, often stressful day, it’s such a relief to be able to unwind to this show and see what shenanigans these goofballs get up to every episode. It’s the kind of show you almost hope goes on forever, just so you never have to say goodbye to one of the most comforting, joyful shows you’ve ever seen. Abbott Elementary’s first season is truly excellent, and if you somehow haven’t began it yet, what are you doing? Do yourself a favor and start this show!

9/10