Watch Sam and Pat Are Depressed

Bri Castellini's web series, Sam and Pat Are Depressed, premiered in 2017, and follows its titular characters as they navigate their depression, anxiety, and existential crises. The show is a dark comedy that uses humor to address mental health issues while remaining poignant and heartfelt.

Sam (played by Bri Castellini) is a twenty-something who has recently moved to New York City after graduating from college. She's struggling to find a job in her field and can't afford rent, so she moves in with fellow depressed and anxious friend Pat (played by Chris Cherry). Pat works at a coffee shop, but spends most of his time playing video games, smoking weed, and avoiding responsibilities.

Throughout the series, Sam and Pat face a variety of challenges that exacerbate their mental health struggles. Sam's job search is demoralizing, and she's haunted by the memories of a past relationship. Pat has trouble connecting with people and avoids dealing with personal issues by indulging in escapism.

Despite the heaviness of the subject matter, Sam and Pat Are Depressed doesn't feel like a downer. Castellini and Cherry's chemistry as friends is charming and funny, and their quips and banter provide levity to the heavier moments. The humor feels organic and never forced, and the show is able to tackle serious issues without losing its humanity.

One of the most effective elements of the show is the way it portrays depression as a complex and multifaceted issue. The characters don't fit into neat stereotypes of depression, and their individual struggles are varied and nuanced. Sam doesn't just feel sad - she's also angry and frustrated with the world around her. Pat isn't just lethargic - he's also deeply introspective and self-aware.

The show doesn't shy away from showing the less pretty sides of mental health, either. The depiction of anxiety and panic attacks feels realistic and raw, and the show explores the way depression can manifest in physical symptoms. In one episode, Sam experiences a debilitating migraine - a physical symptom of her mental health struggles that exemplifies the show's attention to detail in its portrayal of depression.

Quinn Ramsay's direction and the show's cinematography are strong as well. The show takes place largely in Sam and Pat's apartment, but the visuals never feel stagnant. The camera angles and shots are creative, and the series uses color and lighting in interesting ways to create mood and tone.

Overall, Sam and Pat Are Depressed is a poignant and unique take on the portrayal of mental health issues on screen. Its nuanced characters, meaningful dialogue, and sharp humor combine to make a show that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. Castellini's writing and performance, combined with Cherry's hilarious and effective portrayal of Pat, make for a show that's both entertaining and honest about the realities of mental health.