Boots Riley’s latest television series, “I’m a Virgo,” is a seven-part absurdist comedy that stands out as one of the most unusual and creative shows of the year. Starring Jharrel Jerome, known for his Emmy-winning performance in Ava DuVernay’s “When They See Us,” as a 13-foot-tall, 19-year-old Black man named Cootie, the series promises an imaginative and ambitious viewing experience.
The story revolves around Cootie, who has spent his entire life sheltered in the home of his uncle and aunt, Martisse and Lafrancine, in Oakland, California. His abnormal height and appearance have kept him hidden from the outside world, as people fear him due to societal prejudices. Cootie’s perception of the outside world is limited to what he has seen on television, and as he grows older, he yearns for the opportunity to make friends and explore beyond the confines of his home.
However, as Cootie continues to grow, his size becomes a hindrance. Martisse constructs an extension to accommodate Cootie’s massive frame, but even with this modification, everyday activities like using the restroom become problematic. Despite the challenges, Cootie eventually steps outside and befriends Felix, an adventurous companion, and Jones, a political activist fighting against evictions.
Cootie’s newfound freedom catches the attention of a manipulative talent agent who exploits him for fashion modelling gigs. As Cootie gains popularity, billionaire Jay Whittle, who created Cootie’s favorite comic book character, also takes an interest in him. Meanwhile, Cootie falls in love with Flora, a burger joint employee, and the two share a mutual affection.
“I’m a Virgo” showcases Jharrel Jerome’s likeable portrayal of Cootie, and the use of practical effects adds to the show’s charm. However, the series attempts to tackle various themes, such as late capitalism, media portrayal of Black men, healthcare disparities, and the dominance of right-wing superheroes in popular culture. This wide scope of topics raises concerns about whether the show can effectively tie together all the storylines and deliver a satisfying conclusion.
As the plot progresses, additional eccentric characters, like Flora with her superpowers and Martisse and Lafrancine with their secret futuristic weapon, add to the complexity of the narrative. This abundance of storylines and subplots bears some resemblance to the overwhelming nature of the film “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” which may leave viewers feeling overwhelmed.
I’m A Virgo is a creatively unique and intriguing series, and it receives a rating of 3 out of 5.
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