Description
Created by Sophie Willan, the narrator of Channel 4's The Circle, Alma's Not Normal is inspired by Willan's own experiences with the care system, as well as her maternal relationships and career as an escort.
Cast
Alma - Sophie Willan
Leanne - Jayde Adams
Lin - Siobhan Finneran
Joan - Lorraine Ashbourne
Anthony - James Baxter
Spotlight Star
So the Spotlight Star here is Jayde Adams, but I couldn't find a photo of her character on her own, so here she is with Alma.
In the show, Jayde plays both the comic relief to battle Alma's sadder moments, as well as the best friend you never want to mess with. A character that is a great opposition to Alma and her antics.
Opinion
It is a good series that balances sensitive and personal trauma with raw and dry humour. It is good enough to garner a second series, because as it is, with just the six episodes, I'm finding it not too memorable in terms of plot. The thing that sticks with me most is that rawness in emotion, and for that to be in a sitcom is a skill, and I hope to see more writing from Sophie soon. She thoroughly deserved her Best Female Comedy Performance award at the 2022 BAFTAs.
Rating
Casting - 8/10
Originality - 7/10
Execution - 7/10 ★★★☆☆