Not content with co-creating the brilliant (albeit frequently watch-through-your-fingers) dramedies Mo andRamy, and starring in the latter, Ramy Youssef has turned his attention to a riotous animation for adults. Like the Egyptian-American comic’s previous work, #1 Happy Family USA is all about the modern Muslim experience, feeling adrift from the world, and the extent to which you should change yourself to fit in. And what better way to underscore this often excruciating, existential experience than to make our lead an insecure, hormone-plagued teen, coming of age in the wake of the September 11 attacks.‘I had a recurring dream that Bin Laden was in my kitchen’: Ramy Youssef on his 9/11 comedyRead moreFor real Ramy heads, this show will almost certainly call to mind the flashback episode from the first season of his self-titled series, set during 9/11. There, we saw a young Ramy anxiously fight off accusations that he was a terrorist (“Egypt’s in Africa – if anything, I’m black!”). Like that episode – which featured a dream sequence starring Osama bin Laden – this series frequently leans into flights of fancy, and the kind of magical realism that is all the more possible in an animated context (South Park’s Pam Brady is the co-creator). Our hero, Rumi, is best friends with a talking lamb, and there’s a character who appears almost exclusively as a ghost, but you’ll likely accept these as a given pretty quickly. Besides, there’s plenty that feels totally, often painfully real – not least when Uncle Ahmed (Paul Elia) is wrongfully arrested, bound for a shiny new facility called Guantánamo Bay.At the outset, the Hussein family are leading an ordinary, suburban life in New Jersey – albeit one where dad Hussein (Youssef) is unfeasibly frugal, measuring each family member’s electricity consumption down to the watt, and mum Sharia (Salma Hindy) is quietly dissatisfied, spending her days trying to solve what she is certain was the murder of Princess Diana. Meanwhile, Rumi (also voiced by Youssef) is nursing an inadvisable crush on his teacher, Mrs Malcolm (Mandy Moore), and sister Mona (Alia Shawkat) is desperately hiding the fact that she’s gay from the rest of the family. The Husseins aren’t exactly thriving, but little do they know that their lives are about to get a whole lot worse. After the terror attacks and Ahmed’s arrest, Sharia suggests that it’s time to “find our faith and be strong!” Hussein couldn’t disagree more, as he manically adorns the house with American flags and assorted patriotic tat, including a model of Mount Rushmore. “We must blend in and change our values as much as possible!” he demands. “We will change everything about who we are to fit in!”Of course, fitting in isn’t really an option, as the show’s musical numbers convey, with Youssef giving his pipes a real workout as both father and son. As Hussein, he belts out Spies In The Mosque (“They’re watching yooouuuu / They rearrange the shoes”) and Money For The Meat, a lonesome ballad about your education being irrelevant in a new country, and being forced to become a street-food vendor. As Rumi, Youssef nails a parody of Eminem’s Stan (“Here I am, your biggest fan, doubtin’ Ramadan …”), complete with poorly bleached hair.View image in fullscreen‘Find our faith and be strong!’ … Sharia (Salma Hindy) in No 1 Happy Family USA.Photograph: Courtesy of PrimeThis is a show that’s steeped in 00s nostalgia, and mentions of illegal streaming services like LimeWire and Napster, classic anime series Dragon Ball Z and even the Game Boy Advance had me feeling misty-eyed. But it’s also rooted in the present. At a time when religious and racial prejudices seem to be steadily creeping back into vogue, and with Trump back in power, it feels quietly subversive – underlining just how necessary switching between two identities is for many people’s survival in American society. Or, as Rumi’s classmate Dev (Akaash Singh) puts it, “I’ve always wanted to be the less weird brown kid … India’s about to be the new Egypt!” As funny as the family’s ambiguous relationship with their FBI agent neighbour Dan (Timothy Olyphant) is (is he really just a lonely divorcee?), his presence reminds us that many people today find themselves looking over their shoulders, surveillance causing a heady cocktail of fear and paranoia.The show takes a bit of time to warm up, and I wish there had been more to Mona than her sexuality and a by-the-numbers plot about her running for class president. Kieran Culkin also makes an all-too-brief appearance as a troubled man whose stepsons were literally raised by a computer. But when it hits the bullseye, it is something special. This certainly isn’t America’s happiest family, but there’s a lot of laughter mixed in with the pain.#1 Happy Family USA is on Prime Video
#1 Happy Family USA review – a truly special comedy that’s packed with 00s nostalgia
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Ramy Youssef's '#1 Happy Family USA' Explores Muslim Identity Through Animation"
The Guardian
8.2
TruthLens AI Summary
Ramy Youssef, known for his impactful dramedies 'Mo' and 'Ramy', has ventured into adult animation with '#1 Happy Family USA', a series that explores the complexities of the modern Muslim experience. The storyline follows Rumi, a teen navigating adolescence in post-9/11 America, amidst the backdrop of increasing societal pressures and prejudices. The narrative is laced with humor and magical realism, featuring a talking lamb as Rumi's best friend and a ghostly character who adds depth to the storyline. The family's mundane suburban life in New Jersey is depicted through the lens of their struggles with identity, particularly after the wrongful arrest of Uncle Ahmed, which serves as a pivotal moment that shakes their already fragile existence. The show balances absurdity with painful realities, highlighting the challenges of fitting into a society that often views them with suspicion and fear.
The series is rich in nostalgia, referencing early 2000s culture, from illegal streaming services to beloved anime, evoking a sense of longing for a simpler time. However, it simultaneously addresses contemporary issues of racial and religious prejudice that have resurfaced in modern America. Through musical numbers, Youssef captures the duality of the family's experience, as they grapple with their identities while attempting to blend in with American culture. The characters are well-developed, particularly the strained dynamics within the family, as they confront societal expectations and personal truths. '#1 Happy Family USA' is characterized by its blend of humor and pain, ultimately portraying a family that, while not the happiest, finds moments of joy amid their struggles. This series is now available for streaming on Prime Video.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The review of #1 Happy Family USA highlights the show's unique blend of comedy and poignant commentary on the modern Muslim experience, particularly in a post-9/11 context. By focusing on the life of a teenage protagonist navigating the complexities of identity and belonging, the show seeks to resonate with a wide audience, particularly those familiar with the challenges of cultural integration and societal perception.
Intent Behind the Article
This review aims to promote the series while also engaging discussions on cultural representation in media. It emphasizes the importance of narratives that reflect diverse experiences, particularly in the wake of significant historical events like 9/11. The author likely wants to generate interest and viewership for the show, especially among those who appreciate comedy that tackles serious themes.
Public Perception and Community Impact
The article encourages a sense of nostalgia for the 2000s, which can create a warm connection with viewers who experienced that era. By framing the narrative around a Muslim family, it challenges stereotypes and promotes empathy, potentially fostering a more nuanced understanding of Muslim identities in America. The review subtly guides readers towards a more compassionate view of cultural differences and shared human experiences.
Hidden Aspects or Omissions
While the review focuses on the comedic elements and the relatable struggles of the characters, it may downplay the serious implications of events like wrongful arrests and systemic issues related to profiling. These elements are mentioned but not deeply explored, which could lead readers to overlook the gravity of such topics in favor of humor.
Manipulative Elements
The review does not appear overtly manipulative but uses a light-hearted tone to discuss serious issues, which can soften the impact of the underlying themes. The language employed is accessible and engaging, aimed at drawing in a potentially diverse audience. The comedic framing may divert attention from the seriousness of the socio-political commentary embedded in the story.
Comparative Context
In the landscape of contemporary media, this review aligns with a growing trend of shows that tackle identity and cultural issues through humor, akin to other works by Ramy Youssef. It signals an increasing acceptance of such narratives in mainstream media, potentially influencing future projects and audience expectations.
Potential Societal Effects
The show could contribute to broader discussions about diversity in entertainment, prompting more projects that reflect varied experiences. It may also influence public perception of Muslim communities, helping to combat stereotypes and foster dialogue around acceptance and understanding.
Target Audience and Support Base
The review seems to target younger audiences, particularly those nostalgic for the 2000s and interested in stories that explore cultural identity. It may resonate strongly with Muslim viewers or those interested in multicultural narratives, broadening its appeal to anyone who values diverse storytelling.
Economic and Market Implications
While this review is more cultural than economic, successful shows like this can lead to increased interest in similar content, impacting viewership ratings and potentially influencing production companies to invest more in diverse storytelling. This could indirectly affect the stock performance of media companies involved in such productions.
Geopolitical Context
The review does not directly address geopolitical issues but does touch on themes relevant to post-9/11 America, subtly reflecting ongoing discussions about race, identity, and belonging in a global context. The ongoing relevance of these themes indicates a connection to current societal debates.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
It’s unlikely that AI played a significant role in the writing of this review, as it contains a personal touch and subjective commentary typical of human writing. However, if AI were involved, it might have assisted in structuring the review or analyzing viewer sentiments based on data trends. The emotional resonance and nuanced understanding of cultural issues suggest human authorship.
Trustworthiness of the Review
The review appears credible, reflecting thoughtful analysis and insight into the show's themes and cultural significance. It engages with relevant social issues, presenting them in a way that balances humor and seriousness. However, readers should remain aware of the potential for oversight regarding the complexities of the issues discussed.