A new era of comedy debuts tonight with the premier of "Optics," the fresh ABC series set against the backdrop of public relations chaos. Created and starring the dynamic duo Vic Zerbst and Jenna Owen, formerly known for their viral skits, this comedy promises to intertwine humor with biting commentary on today's corporate dynamics.
Following the untimely death of CEO Frank Fritz during a board meeting at the crisis management firm Fritz & Randell, the reins are unexpectedly handed to two young female employees, Greta Goldman (Zerbst) and Nicole Kidman (Owen). Their appointments raise eyebrows, particularly as office politics shift dramatically when seniority collides with the youthful perspective of the newcomers. "Optics" promises to be not just entertaining, but also illuminating as it reflects on real-world issues faced by women stepping up to leadership positions.
At its core, "Optics" presents both comedy and tension as Greta and Nicole grapple with their sudden authority amid looming scandal. This series explores whether they are being set up to fail as they try to maneuver the turbulent waters of public image management, all under the skeptical eye of Ian Randell (Charles Firth), the former heir apparent to the firm.
Firth's character Ian Randell embodies the outmoded perspective of older generations, as he watches helplessly from the sidelines as two women take positions he assumed were his. Ian's inadequacy provides humor as he struggles with public perception, resulting in cringe-worthy antics and moments of self-delusion. Yet, Firth's portrayal ensures Ian is more than just comic relief; it presents opportunities for comedic depth through intergenerational bickering and power struggles.
Garnering attention with its timely themes of gender dynamics, "Optics" reflects on the corporate tendency to promote women during crises, as Zerbst states, "Women are promoted to positions of power when a company is in turmoil, and she’s not provided the structure of support, she’s put there to take the fall, to be a pain sponge."
Both Owen and Zerbst have established themselves as promising talents over the past decade, performing as the sketch-comedy duo Freudian Nip. Their unique chemistry, honed through years of collaboration, manifests delightfully on screen, where they depict young, tech-savvy professionals at the helm of crisis management, steeped with the quick banter audiences have come to expect from them.
"Optics" is not short on guest stars either, featuring cameos from well-known names such as Kate Walsh and Rhys Muldoon, alongside comic veterans like Mandy McElhinney. The show, executive produced by Charles Firth and supported by ABC, promises polished production, ensuring its comic delivery aligns with the sharp writing crafted by Owen, Zerbst, and Firth.
The series will explore various crises, such as high-profile athletes caught up in scandal and corporate misdeeds requiring desperate PR intervention, all framed within the humor of everyday absurdity. The first episode centers on the fallout of disgraced football player Bundy Gribbons (Will McNeill), exemplifying how they tackle the tough and often ridiculous scenarios facing modern PR.
Critics have noted the show’s effectiveness will hinge on its ability to balance satire and character depth. With humor largely derived from the absurd realities of PR and the characters’ reactions, "Optics" stands to resonate well with anyone familiar with workplace dynamics. Expect some biting one-liners and insightful observations, addressing everything from the struggles of getting clients to acknowledge scandalous behavior to the quirks of male-dominated corporate environments.
Interestingly, as the episodes progress, viewers will likely be treated to the deepening camaraderie between Greta and Nicole, as they navigate the tumultuous waters of their new responsibilities. This partnership emerges as they rely on one another to overcome obstacles posed by established male peers, often finding inventive outlets to manage high-pressure situations, highlighting their adaptability and creativity.
With its comedic foundation laid out against the dramatic tension of corporate politics, "Optics" sets out to establish itself as part of the influential tradition of workplace comedies such as "Parks and Recreation" and "Utopia," where the absurdities of bureaucratic life become fodder for laughs. And with names like Zerbst and Owen at the helm, each episode promises unique energy and freshness to keep viewers engaged.
So get ready for some laughs and perhaps even relatable cringe moments, as "Optics" invites audiences to peek behind the curtain of PR shenanigans—from celebrity scandals to workplace politics. Tune in tonight at 8.30 p.m. AEST on ABC TV or via ABC iview. This series is one to watch as it tackles themes of equality and challenges the status quo, appealing to both the comedy aficionado and anyone who's ever encountered the peculiarities of office life.