In the pantheon of television series, certain shows strike a chord as profound and multi-layered, leaving you eager for the next episode. “The Dry” is one such series, a masterful dramedy that’s creating buzz and earning accolades for its blend of sharp humor and insightful exploration of sobering realities.
Shiv Sheridan, portrayed by the talented Roisin Gallagher, has returned to Dublin after years of partying in London. She is trying to navigate a new phase of her life – sobriety, and being back with her family. With eight months of sobriety under her belt and a failed art career, Shiv gives up her life in London and returns home to her dysfunctional but lovable family.
“The Dry”, produced by the same company that brought us “Normal People”, opens with a wake, a setting that feels almost quintessentially Irish. Shiv, five months, 17 days, six hours sober, finds herself at a critical juncture where a weekend with her family might just be the thing to fling her off the wagon.
The show brilliantly portrays the nuances of class dynamics, from the upscale meetings on Dublin’s Southside, where homemade Rice Krispies cakes are the go-to refreshments, to the more austere yet authentic ones in the heart of the inner city. The latter, as Karen, destined to be Shiv’s sponsor, pointedly remarks, “is for alcoholics. It’s recovery. Not an aerial yoga class.” Karen’s character is sure to quickly endear herself to viewers with her frankness and wit. For those familiar with the 12-step program, she’s likely to evoke a knowing smile as you’re reminded of that one individual in your own meeting who bears a striking resemblance to her.
However, like all good shows about addiction, “The Dry” is about so much more than the road to recovery. It’s about alcoholism’s causes and effects, the generational traumas that can never be blacked out, the lifelong impact of the death of a child in the family, and the lies we tell our parents, children, and especially ourselves.
A particularly poignant moment comes when Shiv finds boxes of miniature gin bottles hidden under her grandmother’s bed, all empty. “Granny,” she whispers to herself, “you little fucker”. It’s a revelation that adds layers to the narrative, revealing that even the seemingly innocent are not immune to the allure of alcohol.
“The Dry” is an Irish “Fleabag”
“The Dry” is an Irish “Fleabag”, a show that manages to weave humor, heartache, and reality into a narrative that is as captivating as it is relatable. Its portrayal of addiction, family dynamics, and personal growth is as sincere as it is entertaining. For those of you in the USA, you can find Series 1 on Amazon and it will be free if you have an AMC membership.
In conclusion, supporting television series and movies like “The Dry” is of utmost importance, particularly for the recovery community. These narratives not only reflect the realities of addiction and recovery with honesty and sensitivity, but also help to dispel stereotypes and reduce stigma around these topics. The more we watch and support such content, the more encouragement it gives to creators to develop similar narratives. This, in turn, can foster a more empathetic understanding of addiction and recovery within society at large. Ultimately, these stories have the potential to make a significant impact by promoting awareness, encouraging dialogue, and providing a sense of validation and representation for those in the midst of their own recovery journeys.
Sober Curator Pro Tip: Season 2 will be out in 2024 ‘The Dry’ Season 2: Cast and Filming News | Telly Visions
“The Dry” Scores 100% on Rotten Tomatoes!
THE MINDFUL BINGE: It’s ok to indulge in a good TV series binge occasionally, as long as you do so mindfully. This section of the site explores TV series that feature addiction, recovery, and mental illness as one of the main storylines.
Are movies more your thing? We get it. Sometimes, you need to escape for 2 hours without the commitment of an entire TV series. MOVIE NIGHT WITH THE SOBER CURATOR has your back!
If you need ideas on what to sip on while you get in that screen time, check out our HAPPY EVERY HOUR section for a complete curated list of non-alcoholic beverage options.
HAPPY EVERY HOUR: We know we mix a mean mocktail. HAPPY EVERY HOUR will keep you updated on the latest and most significant trends in NA craft beers, mocktails and zero-proof beverages.
TRIGGER WARNING: People in early sobriety may want to proceed with caution. Always read labels. Please hydrate responsibly … because drunk never looks good.
THE BEVERAGE CATEGORIES:
Do you love Non-Alcoholic Craft Beers and the 90s? Then you’re in for a treat! Sober Curator Justin Lamb is dedicated to tasting great (sometimes not so great) NA beers and showcasing his fantastic collection of memorabilia from the ’90s.
NA Bevies & Mocks brings you mocktail recipes, NA beverage reviews, along with NA wine & spirit alternatives
Manic Monday got you in a panic? Fear not! Tonix Mocktail’s brings you Just a Merry Monday MOCKTAIL recipe, review, and how-to section bring fun and clever mocktail treats and tips to customize your at-home zero-proof bar.
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Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
