The golden age of television shows can be a double-edged sword for the creation of new programs. With the massive amounts of content all over the channels and streaming services, it can seem almost impossible for a new program to stand out above the rest.
On top of that, the attention span of the average viewer is decreasing. If a show doesn’t catch the audience’s eye within the first minute, the show will not have an audience to keep.
“Speechless” quickly proves to be a cut above the rest. Within 30 seconds, viewers can tell this is something to watch.
“Speechless” is the story of a mother who moves her family to a new home and a new school to help her son, who is unable to speak or walk properly, have an easier time at school.
At first glance, the trailer depicts the show as another tale of inspiration as a mother tries to get help for her son.
In recent years handicapped individuals have been widely viewed as mere tools of inspirations that can help others feel better about themselves. This is of course a disgusting view that makes less-abled people seem like objects more than actual human beings. Shows have tried to use this tool before as a disgusting tactic to try to get viewers.
“Speechless” pokes fun at this typical trope. In the first episode, the class tries to make J.J. (Micah Fowler, “Labor Day”) feel welcome to the extent that they begin to stand up and cheer for him, but realize that standing to cheer is “offensive” to him because of his condition.
The show is not on to be different. It is on to show that different should not be forced or treated as if it is special.
Another strength of the show is the characterization of the family. J.J. has two siblings, played by Kyla Kenedy (“The Walking Dead”) and Mason Cook (“The Goldbergs”). The two have clear traits show during the first five minutes that ring true for the characters for the episode. Kenedy is a strong-willed athlete trying to make the world less focused on getting an “A” for participation. Cook is the rational and neglected feeling child due to the prominence the other two play in the lives of their parents.
Both actors personify their characters clearly. Even though they are young, they bring a good strength to the program that other children could potentially drag down.
Finally, there are the adults. Josh Ross Bowie (“The Big Bang Theory”) and Minnie Driver (“About a Boy”) play the parents in the family. Bowie is trying to make everyone happy, while Driver wants to get what she wants, and she will.
Driver gives an incredible performance in the series pilot, showing off the power of a loving mother and a woman who will do whatever it takes to get what she wants for her family. Her argument with Cedric Yarbrough (“BoJack Horseman”), who plays a gardener turned speech assistant, in which she played person vs. trash, is one moment in particular viewers won’t soon forget.
“Speechless” does not stand quietly. It is not the show made to inspire for the sake of inspiration. It is quality that deserves recognition and audience attention. Do not miss out on the show, it is worth the time.
