Based off a novel by Blair Tindall on her experience as an Oboist, (entitled Mozart in the Jungle: Sex, Drugs, and Classical Music) Mozart in the Jungle is a dramatic comedy surrounding the fictional events of the New York symphony. Viewer discretion is advised as there is crude language as well as the odd minor sexual act. The show is based upon two central characters, although, in later episodes of the first season as well as the entire second season, it becomes more of an ensemble. This diversification leads to much broader character development as well as allows for more contextual perspective. The show starts with the introduction of a new conductor for the orchestra, Rodrigo Desouza (Gael Garcia Bernal) who sees promise in the young oboe player Hailey Rutledge (Lola Kirke). The show from there on is the inner workings of Hailey becoming a professional oboe player along with the intricacies of running a major orchestra, including the financial side.
The first season ended on a cliffhanger that wasn’t life or death but still wasn’t a fun feeling to hold for a year. Luckily, season two came out this January. It did not disappoint. Two or three episodes were interesting in their use of subtitles to translate Rodrigo’s Spanish which was a rather poignant choice as it allowed for a broader range of viewership. While subtitles may be offputting to some, in certain instances of the second season they helped to drive jokes. Season two was a beautiful continuation of the first, allowing for both new characters, and older ones that hadn’t been able to shine previously, to come out into the spotlight. New romances were ignited among unexpected parties and tensions were higher than ever between the establishment and the players. The new season had a one-man marching band, curses, LGBTQ representation, musical softball, and helicopter rides. I strongly recommend watching this show, although you must have Amazon to view it as it is an Amazon-produced show. It’s worth it, however, and Amazon has plenty of other great shows to consider as well!
By: Annalise Wood