This Way Up is an incredibly raw and realistic portrayal of mental illness that steers away from cliches or stigmatization. It's not sanitized, but it's not sensationalized either. The show balances comedy and drama expertly. There are absolutely laugh out loud moments, but the show doesn't sacrifice substance for a laugh. Aisling Bea's storytelling is superb, and she's managed to create memorable and nuanced characters.
78 Reviews
Sad, lonely and funny
AfricanBro23 August 2021
It's not a comedy like most I've seen. Watching this made me feel like hanging out with that funny friend you have who doesn't necessarily make jokes, just a funny character and makes you laugh all the time, it's not forced or scripted, they're just able to find humour behind anything.
However, the shows more than just the humour, it shows a person who's struggling mentally and how it's affecting her life and those around her, veiling her struggles from her friends. Casting is spot on and they really bring the characters and story to life. It's cleverly written and manages to reflect mental issues in such a sad yet funny way. Aisling bea is really amazing at deflecting uncomfortable or awkward situations with her wittiness, even in real life. Her and Sharon's relationship in the show is amazing. I think the show deserves a little more recognition, just a little.
However, the shows more than just the humour, it shows a person who's struggling mentally and how it's affecting her life and those around her, veiling her struggles from her friends. Casting is spot on and they really bring the characters and story to life. It's cleverly written and manages to reflect mental issues in such a sad yet funny way. Aisling bea is really amazing at deflecting uncomfortable or awkward situations with her wittiness, even in real life. Her and Sharon's relationship in the show is amazing. I think the show deserves a little more recognition, just a little.
Touching, moving comedy
jackhorsefield9 August 2019
I had to leave a review since I've read some in here that are frankly childish, witless, and overly critical. Perhaps female led comedy is too scary for some? Or maybe the subtly of the humour went over their heads.
It's interesting to see a protagonist whom we can laugh with, rather than at, as is the way with many sitcoms. She is a genuinely funny character who hides behind the tears of a clown when it comes to her hidden mental health problems. The struggles portrayed are very relatable, and they're set in a modern, inclusive world.
It's clear that Aisling Bea comes from a standup comedy background, as her million-words-a-minute ramblings take up most of the screen time. There are moments that are genuinely hilarious, but also very moving as well.
This is a great new addition to Channel 4's abundant collection of UK sitcoms. Hope to see more!
It's interesting to see a protagonist whom we can laugh with, rather than at, as is the way with many sitcoms. She is a genuinely funny character who hides behind the tears of a clown when it comes to her hidden mental health problems. The struggles portrayed are very relatable, and they're set in a modern, inclusive world.
It's clear that Aisling Bea comes from a standup comedy background, as her million-words-a-minute ramblings take up most of the screen time. There are moments that are genuinely hilarious, but also very moving as well.
This is a great new addition to Channel 4's abundant collection of UK sitcoms. Hope to see more!
So moving and funny
simonbirch19 August 2019
It seems hit a chord with me the way the character tries to make light of situations, sometimes putting both feet in and creating some awkward moments. It's the strength of Aine's personality that pulls her through. I have created many similar situations but tend to wimp out too soon to rescue myself.
The mental illness I relate to and it helps so much seeing it on screen so I know it's not just me and in some respects keep going because Aine is trying to get through it so can I. The first episode made me smile when Shona asked is she fixed now.
I understand that the first episode is really trying to find itself but I ended up binge watching all the episodes in one day, something I don't usually do but the strength of the character makes me want to watch more. This could have been a film instead of a series.
There has to be a series2 now
The mental illness I relate to and it helps so much seeing it on screen so I know it's not just me and in some respects keep going because Aine is trying to get through it so can I. The first episode made me smile when Shona asked is she fixed now.
I understand that the first episode is really trying to find itself but I ended up binge watching all the episodes in one day, something I don't usually do but the strength of the character makes me want to watch more. This could have been a film instead of a series.
There has to be a series2 now
Excellent comedic handling of a serious subject
bostockleigh-7591829 August 2019
Depression is not pleasant to say the least, but this series brings the point home without labouring it. Laughter smoothly moves to tears and back to laughter... much like life. The most depressing part for me was realising I had just watched the last episode of series 1. I'm really hoping for series 2, and as quickly as possible please! If you haven't seen it, make sure you do, your life can only be a little poorer without it....
Well written and acted drama
bgsmall2 September 2019
For Aisling Fans?
jaredd25 May 2021
I think if you're already a fan of Aisling's comedy style then this will be an easy watch. If you're not, then perhaps it may not be for you. But that doesn't mean it isn't good, it just means everyone has different interests.
Personally I already found Aisling plenty adorable and funny, so when this came out it was just a continuation of my fandom. Aisling is front and center most of the time. Honestly a few times I actually wondered if some things were pulled straight from her personal life and that made it feel even more compelling.
Personally I already found Aisling plenty adorable and funny, so when this came out it was just a continuation of my fandom. Aisling is front and center most of the time. Honestly a few times I actually wondered if some things were pulled straight from her personal life and that made it feel even more compelling.
If Robin Williams and Jennifer Connelly had a love child
A_Different_Drummer24 February 2022
If Robin Williams and Jennifer Connelly had a love child ... It would be Aisling Bea. Authentic and funny. It is entirely her show. The positive, upbeat and self-effacing vibe is all hers. ((Designated "IMDb Top Reviewer." Please check out my list "167+ Nearly-Perfect Movies (with the occasional Anime or TV miniseries) you can/should see again and again (1932 to the present))
My only complaint...
jinpa512 July 2021
Is that there are only 6 episodes each season! Too brief a time with these wonderfully drawn and acted characters! Every actor embodies their character with vivid realness, kindness, and completeness. A perfect blend of humor, drama, and reality. How long will we have to wait for the next season?? Hopefully, all remain healthy and return for season 3.
Welcoming, Funny and Entertaining
nancyldraper4 December 2021
The comedic stylings of Aisling Bea in a sitcom that is welcoming and entertaining. I loved the whole sister dynamic, as co-dependant as it was. Really funny, great one-liners, and yet, some beautiful, heart felt moments. I give this series a 7 (good) out of 10. {Situation Comedy}
Hilarious and heartbreaking at the same time
Leemsn-co-uk14 September 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I don't review often, but I feel it is warranted here. I heard about a new show that Aisling Bea was making a while back and assumed it would be yet another sitcom that a lot of comedians tend to try at some point in their careers, but this is so much better than that. It's a show that has a lot of heart and humour, but will also make you cry your eyes out.
I love Aisling Bea's humour and it definitely comes through in the show, but her character Aine uses humour as a way to deflect and almost keep people away. Aine is a great character as she is so relatable to people that are struggling to get through life. You feel for her, you laugh and cry with her, she's the most "human" character in a show I've seen in a long time. She resonates hugely with people I know in my own life.
The progression and the pacing is spot on, as it hints that Aine had some form of breakdown after it all got too much for her and then was admitted into rehab for stress and depression. It isn't until the final episode that you find out what actually happened, and it makes the reveal even more heartbreaking. This is way better than revealing it in the first episode in my opinion.
There are also other characters like her sister Shona and her partner, and this is another strength of the show, highlighting the importance of family and having someone to fall back on if you need help. Towards the end of the series, Aine's sister starts distancing herself and throwing her efforts into her work instead of keeping tabs on Aine, and it's at that point that Aine reaches out to more unsavoury characters instead for support.
I also want to mention the chemistry between all the actors, they just gelled insanely well with each other. Aine and Shona act like real life sisters and you can tell they have a lot of fun together.
All in all it is a great series and I sincerely hope it gets a second one, as I feel there is a lot of potential in these characters.
I love Aisling Bea's humour and it definitely comes through in the show, but her character Aine uses humour as a way to deflect and almost keep people away. Aine is a great character as she is so relatable to people that are struggling to get through life. You feel for her, you laugh and cry with her, she's the most "human" character in a show I've seen in a long time. She resonates hugely with people I know in my own life.
The progression and the pacing is spot on, as it hints that Aine had some form of breakdown after it all got too much for her and then was admitted into rehab for stress and depression. It isn't until the final episode that you find out what actually happened, and it makes the reveal even more heartbreaking. This is way better than revealing it in the first episode in my opinion.
There are also other characters like her sister Shona and her partner, and this is another strength of the show, highlighting the importance of family and having someone to fall back on if you need help. Towards the end of the series, Aine's sister starts distancing herself and throwing her efforts into her work instead of keeping tabs on Aine, and it's at that point that Aine reaches out to more unsavoury characters instead for support.
I also want to mention the chemistry between all the actors, they just gelled insanely well with each other. Aine and Shona act like real life sisters and you can tell they have a lot of fun together.
All in all it is a great series and I sincerely hope it gets a second one, as I feel there is a lot of potential in these characters.
Comedy?
annenl-556578 October 2019
Everyday People's lives via down to earth narration
nakrugt31 May 2021
I loved the show and I finished it in one sitting. Great writing and acting.
Had I watched this show maybe ten years ago, I would not believe that character would exist, but I have met and known women like her in real life, as well. So, I got to understand her better than I would have ten years ago.
I am not saying I understand completely ot better than anyone else, I am just saying better than I would before.
Looking forward to second season.
Had I watched this show maybe ten years ago, I would not believe that character would exist, but I have met and known women like her in real life, as well. So, I got to understand her better than I would have ten years ago.
I am not saying I understand completely ot better than anyone else, I am just saying better than I would before.
Looking forward to second season.
Season 1 is good, season 2 even better
andrewjdavis-home8 August 2021
This show is like no other. I can't believe Aisling wrote such gritty, moving and sometimes filthy scenes and was prepared to act them out herself with no ego.
The final episode is truly amazing so fingers crossed for a Season 3 because we need to see what happens next.
The final episode is truly amazing so fingers crossed for a Season 3 because we need to see what happens next.
Thoughtful, poignant and funny!
emmaedwardsrav3 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
As someone whose spent time in a psychiatric unit and suffers from severe long term depression, I recognised so much of my own experiences and those of my fellow patients in this series.
As a 50 year old divorced woman who's experienced fertility issues but is now in menopause, I also saw some of my experiences reflected in Shona's storyline and having to rebuild my life and start again after a long term illness in Aine's.
This is a strong, funny, warm, intelligent series written by women for women. It places women upfront and centre and the writing and comedy reflects that.
It might not rely on obviously signalled jokes and obtrusive oneliners to be funny but that's perfectly fine, it's all the better for it.
As a 50 year old divorced woman who's experienced fertility issues but is now in menopause, I also saw some of my experiences reflected in Shona's storyline and having to rebuild my life and start again after a long term illness in Aine's.
This is a strong, funny, warm, intelligent series written by women for women. It places women upfront and centre and the writing and comedy reflects that.
It might not rely on obviously signalled jokes and obtrusive oneliners to be funny but that's perfectly fine, it's all the better for it.
Amazing!
gemmaheffernan13 August 2019
Mental health issues is a hard subject to tackle but this series handles it beautifully. It's witty, sad, heart warming and dark all at the same time. Aisling Bea and Sharon Horgan have so much chemistry as sisters, so the humour just naturally bounces between the two. The cast is perfect so you can't help but to get invested in their characters. If you are looking for a new series to watch, this is it!
Worth a watch? Yes.
ian-moffett-584-27063510 August 2019
I want more!
wushockgirl25 August 2019
It's hard to tackle issues of mental health but I love how it was done in this series. It shows a woman trying to overcome it with both humor and with fear. I found the cast choices perfect and automatically could relate to each. This show is whitty and I found myself laughing at times but also feeling for the main character too knowing how hard it is to tackle a giant voice in your head telling you that you aren't enough. I binged this in an afternoon and hope for more episodes soon!
Absolutely brilliant
sil-1210 January 2023
I'm a very picky person but this is a work of art!
The acting, the writing and the directing are all top notch. You can't help but fall in love with all the characters. It's just so real, raw and beautiful.
It depicts life as is: beautiful moments, sometimes you feel like you're on the top of the world and sometimes you feel like there's nothing else to love for. I hope it gets renewed for a season 3. This is one of the best shows I've seen in a very long time.
I recently watched Sharon Horgan on Bad Sisters and now I'm convinced that everything she is involved with is absolutely worth watching.
The acting, the writing and the directing are all top notch. You can't help but fall in love with all the characters. It's just so real, raw and beautiful.
It depicts life as is: beautiful moments, sometimes you feel like you're on the top of the world and sometimes you feel like there's nothing else to love for. I hope it gets renewed for a season 3. This is one of the best shows I've seen in a very long time.
I recently watched Sharon Horgan on Bad Sisters and now I'm convinced that everything she is involved with is absolutely worth watching.
Hm..
suncicalazanski11 March 2023
Aisling Bea takes us into the challenging world of mental health without us realising we are in one.
As it should be, mental health issues are just a part of a person suffering from those issues, not their while personality.
The main character is complex, witty and smart. Her relationship with her sister is definitely the coodependent one in which they both heavily rely on each other. But can we blame them? In an often grim and isolating world, in a city such as London, where finding friends is not easy, sisterhood copendency might not the such a big sin.
What I loved is that mental health challenges are not defining the main character, nor are they the focus of the show, yet they are somehow omnipresent through episodes. The show also manages to tackle on immigration issues, refugees identity, feeling lost, isolated and not having a clue where to go in life.
I think it the plot could have been developed deeper and better in a sense that many scenes somehow didn't reach their peak nor point. The ending is rushed a bit and the format is confusing - is it a drama, a comedy or both? All in all, a good show with some space for improvement.
As it should be, mental health issues are just a part of a person suffering from those issues, not their while personality.
The main character is complex, witty and smart. Her relationship with her sister is definitely the coodependent one in which they both heavily rely on each other. But can we blame them? In an often grim and isolating world, in a city such as London, where finding friends is not easy, sisterhood copendency might not the such a big sin.
What I loved is that mental health challenges are not defining the main character, nor are they the focus of the show, yet they are somehow omnipresent through episodes. The show also manages to tackle on immigration issues, refugees identity, feeling lost, isolated and not having a clue where to go in life.
I think it the plot could have been developed deeper and better in a sense that many scenes somehow didn't reach their peak nor point. The ending is rushed a bit and the format is confusing - is it a drama, a comedy or both? All in all, a good show with some space for improvement.
Touching, clever and smart
cassjthomas22 December 2019
How dit it get commissioned?
collectiveaccounts11 August 2019
Formulaic London angst 'comedy.' The usual characters. The usual dilemmas and sagas. The same dystopian landscapes. It feels like a second rate This Life without any relatable or endearing characters. Had hoped the mental illness angle would be explored with sensitivity - but it's just clumsily handled. Frankly, a bit sad and miserable.
DON'T miss this one
robinparker31111 December 2019
The only thing I can found disappointing about this shoe is that it was only six 25 minute episodes.
It's a great story about two sisters & how much they love each other, how much they depend on each other & how much they make each other laugh (as well as everyone around them). Obviously there's much much more to it than that, but that's the premise and Aisling Bea & Sharon Horgan are absolutely perfect together. It's a very good way to take a peek into someone's life through another person who they love so much. Brilliant!
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
