Phoebe Waller-Bridge's comedic masterpiece Fleabag is not just about laughter; it's a type of comedy that involves groaning and gasping in response to situations. Adapted from her one-woman show of the same name, the series features Waller-Bridge as the lead, portraying an emotional and free-spirited woman living in London. Over two seasons, as Fleabag's adventures in love and life unfold, the breaking of the fourth wall continues. The show is filled with extraordinarily clever writing, flawless characters, and relatable slices of life.

Watching all 12 episodes is a reward in itself, but rewatching Fleabag remains perfect. With its two-season narrative arc and nearly flawless finale, rewatching offers a fresh perspective on how each piece comes together in this cleverly crafted show. Of course, if you haven't watched it yet, it's likely you'll add it back to your watchlist right after finishing.

The character of Fleabag was originally created for a sketch in a stand-up show. Waller-Bridge developed the character and premiered the full version of the Fleabag solo show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2013. When it won the Fringe First Award, it opened the door for the character to be expanded; this time, Waller-Bridge plays Fleabag while other characters are portrayed through ensemble acting in a fully-fledged series. Those unfamiliar with the show's origins may be shocked by this transition, but the shift from a one-woman show to a full ensemble comedy is seamless.

Fleabag's central character focuses on a tremendous yet fragile woman facing deep self-deception and love. Thanks to this fourth-wall-breaking direction, viewers are invited into her world. You may not want to be Fleabag, but there's a bit of her in each of us. The scripts written by Waller-Bridge are a major draw. Ordinary things are ready to explode into comedic situations, even if they may seem far-fetched. However, when the intensity is turned up a notch, there remains an element of believability.

Rewatching reveals how the first season's particularly elegant setup and character development are meticulously foreshadowed. Every detail is carefully placed to make subsequent scenes more impactful. Phoebe Waller-Bridge's writing and acting perfectly balance the character's vulnerability and strength. Fleabag says everything there is to say about modern feminism, trauma, and self-discovery, but it never comes off as preachy. Instead, it always remains human and funny.