Watch This Close

This Close is a groundbreaking SundanceTV series that follows the lives of two deaf best friends living in Los Angeles, Kate and Michael, as they navigate their relationships, careers, and personal struggles. The show is notable for its authentic portrayal of deaf culture and its use of deaf actors in key roles.

Kate and Michael are played by Shoshannah Stern and Josh Feldman, respectively, both of whom are deaf themselves. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their performances are incredibly nuanced and heartfelt. Kate is a talented writer who is struggling to break into the industry, while Michael is a successful graphic novelist who is dealing with the aftermath of a breakup.

Cheryl Hines plays Stella, Kate's boss at a high-end PR firm. Stella is a complicated character who has her own secrets and struggles, but Hines brings a great level of humor and depth to the role.

Zach Gilford plays Ryan, Michael's ex-boyfriend who is trying to reconnect with him after their breakup. Colt Prattes plays Danny, a hearing man who is dating Kate but is not completely aware of the complexities of her deaf identity.

Marlee Matlin, who is a deaf actress and activist, appears in a recurring role as Michael's mom, who is supportive but also overbearing at times. Matlin's presence in the show is a testament to its commitment to authentic representation.

Throughout the series, This Close tackles a wide range of topics, such as mental health, LGBT representation, and the challenges of dating as a deaf person. The show does an excellent job of exploring these issues in a nuanced and compassionate way, without ever feeling preachy or didactic.

One of the key strengths of the show is its use of sign language. The characters communicate using a combination of sign language, spoken English, and subtitles, which creates a unique and engaging viewing experience. The show also incorporates visual storytelling, with the use of graphic novels, animations, and dream sequences.

This Close is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in authentic representation, great performances, and compelling storytelling. The show is a groundbreaking exploration of deaf culture and identity, and it has the potential to change the way we think about representation in media.

This Close is a series that ran for 2 seasons (14 episodes) between February 14, 2018 and on SundanceTV