Watch The Chair

The Chair, a Netflix original series from creators Amanda Peet and Annie Wyman, is a drama-comedy that masterfully tackles the struggles of a newly-appointed chairperson of a prestigious English department at a college in New England, Dr. Ji-Yoon Kim, played by the incredible Sandra Oh.

The first episode opens with Dr. Kim's appointment, making history as the first woman and person of color to lead the department. The show expertly twists and turns through the challenges Dr. Kim faces in her new role, from dealing with an aging, resistant faculty to navigating relationships with students, faculty, and authority figures.

Alongside Oh's starring role, the show features a standout cast. Jay Duplass plays Dr. Bill Dobson, another English professor and Dr. Kim's friend and confidante. Bob Balaban plays Elliot Rentz, a cantankerous professor who refuses to retire and poses constant challenges for Dr. Kim.

The Chair heavily features the intersection of academia and politics, especially in the current climate where diversity and inclusion are hot topics of conversation. The show doesn't shy away from the tough questions and issues that arise when an institute of higher education grapples with ideas of tradition, diversity, and challenging preconceived notions.

Throughout the show, Dr. Kim struggles with balancing her newfound power with her personal life, navigating being a single mom to her young daughter, Ju Ju, played by newcomer Everly Carganilla.

Peet and Wyman play with some classic storytelling tropes, making The Chair a show that is both approachable yet sophisticated, engaging yet contemplative. The series feels immediately familiar, while still maintaining a fresh, edgy vibe with a pulse on the present moment.

The show also leans into the unique ambiance and beauty of an elite university town, capturing both the stunning architecture and the subtle class divide that often exists within these sorts of communities.

The Chair boasts a diverse cast and an all-female writing team, representing the future of Hollywood creative collaboration. Peet and Wyman have crafted a masterpiece that manages to transcend the traditional trajectory of a college-comedy and instead delves into relationships, personal growth, and identity.

As the season unfolds, Dr. Kim's challenges come to a head with a climactic episode that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats- rooting for Dr. Kim, but also questioning established systems and how they reckon with diversity.

The Chair marks a landmark moment in entertainment that tackles deep-seated issues and provides a platform to amplify voices that have been historically underrepresented. The show is an important addition to the discourse around diversity in storytelling, without being preachy or didactic.

Overall, The Chair is must-watch television that waters familiar tropes with an authentically fresh voice. With an incredible cast, a beautifully multifaceted script, and timely commentary, it is a show that leaves a lasting impact.

The Chair is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on August 20, 2021.