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Pulling is a British sitcom television series that aired on BBC Three from 2006 to 2009. Created and written by Sharon Horgan, the show follows the lives of three single women who live in a shared house in south London as they navigate through their personal and professional lives.

The three central characters of Pulling are Donna (played by Sharon Horgan), a thirty-something career woman who has just ended her engagement; Karen (played by Tanya Franks), a man-hungry underachiever who works at a supermarket; and Louise (played by Rebekah Staton), an aspiring artist who is perpetually broke and directionless.

Throughout the series, the women face various challenges and obstacles, both in their personal and professional lives. They struggle with issues such as finding love, making ends meet, and navigating the complexities of adult friendships. The show touches on themes such as the anxieties of growing up, the challenges of maintaining relationships, and the pressures of societal expectations.

One of the strengths of Pulling is its raw and unfiltered depiction of the characters’ lives. The show is unapologetically honest in its portrayal of the messiness of adulthood, and the characters’ flaws and mistakes are not sugar-coated. This makes for humour that is often uncomfortable and cringe-worthy, but also relatable and authentic.

The show also benefits from the chemistry and dynamic between the three leads, who all deliver strong performances. Horgan’s Donna is sharp-tongued and confident, but also vulnerable; Franks’ Karen is brash and outrageous, but also endearing; and Staton’s Louise is dreamy and idealistic, but also capable of biting wit.

In addition to the central trio, the show features a cast of recurring characters who add richness and depth to the world of Pulling. These include Donna’s ex-fiancé, who remains a presence in her life; Karen’s co-worker, who harbours a crush on her; and Louise’s arrogant but charismatic ex-boyfriend.

One of the standout aspects of the show is its use of music. Each episode features a carefully curated selection of songs that perfectly capture the mood and tone of the scenes they accompany. The soundtrack ranges from indie rock to classic pop, and adds an extra layer of emotional resonance to the show’s already-strong storytelling.

However, Pulling is not without its flaws. Some of the characters’ actions can be frustrating or off-putting, and the show’s commitment to its unflinching realism means that it occasionally veers into uncomfortable territory. Additionally, some of the plotlines feel indulgent or meandering, and the show can at times feel directionless or unfocused.

Overall, Pulling is a smart, funny, and idiosyncratic show that offers a unique perspective on the challenges of modern adulthood. It is a show that is unafraid to be unconventional and risky in its storytelling, and its refusal to shy away from difficult truths about the messiness of life is refreshing. Fans of British sitcoms that are unapologetically honest and emotionally resonant will find a lot to enjoy in Pulling.