Watch Traif: An Unkosher Series

Traif: An Unkosher Series is a web series that follows the story of two best friends, Jeff (Casey Graff) and Spencer (Michael Wouters), as they navigate their way through their 20s in Toronto. The show, produced by FZL Productions, is a refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre, often tackling topics that are seldom explored in mainstream media.

The plot of the series revolves around Jeff and Spencer's attempts to break away from their Orthodox Jewish upbringing and embrace a more secular lifestyle. The duo faces a range of challenges as they try to redefine their cultural and spiritual identities, including navigating the complexities of dating, grappling with the pressures of their families and communities, and confronting their own personal demons.

The show is beautifully shot, with a grainy, indie-style aesthetic that perfectly captures the gritty reality of life in the city. The cinematography is raw and intimate, highlighting the emotional depth of the characters and their struggles. The series also showcases a killer soundtrack, featuring a range of alternative artists and indie bands that perfectly capture the mood of each scene.

One of the most striking aspects of Traif is its nuanced portrayal of religious identity. The show resists the temptation to reduce its characters to flat stereotypes and instead allows them to embody the complexities of real-life people. Jeff and Spencer are not caricatures of "good" or "bad" Jews, but rather fully-formed individuals who are struggling to make sense of their place in the world.

The performances in the show are outstanding, with both Graff and Wouters delivering nuanced, emotionally-charged portrayals of their characters. Their chemistry is palpable, and the authenticity of their friendship is one of the show's biggest strengths.

Traif also manages to strike a delicate balance between humour and heartbreak. The show's dry, irreverent humour provides moments of levity amidst the weighty subject matter, while the more emotional scenes are handled with a deft touch that never feels melodramatic or contrived.

Overall, Traif: An Unkosher Series is a real gem of a show. It manages to tackle weighty themes with nuance and sensitivity, while still remaining entertaining and accessible. If you're looking for a coming-of-age series that feels fresh and authentic, Traif is definitely worth a watch.