Review: Band Ladies, Highball.TV

“Iiiiii’m just so maaaad!”
Within 36 seconds Band Ladies tells you what it’s all about: Middle-aged ladies having middle-aged lady problems and channeling them into rip-roaring punk music. It’s about time we rocked out with our grown-up problems out.

The female produced and directed dramatic comedy is clever, bringing five unlikely friends together with a “we started as a book club” plot. During a discussion of their latest read, a parody of so many “for ladies” erotic novels, the gang indulges in a few too many glasses of dive bar wine. The night unfolds as so many impromptu parties do: Confessions made, stages stormed, and viral punk rock content created.

That fateful evening effects each of our protagonists in wildly different ways, making for fun one on one pairings. Lisa Michelle Cornelius shines as Chloe, the accomplished lawyer who wants to speak her truth, especially when coupled with Stephanie (Kirsten Rasmussen), the flaky café worker with a codependent streak.

Some tonal shifts within the 10-minute episodes feel abrupt at times, with Portlandia style sketch comedy juxtaposing intimate drama. The show finds its groove somewhere in the middle. 

Funny and touching scenes unfold as the absurdly wealthy Penny (co-creator and writer Dana Puddicombe) navigates her fertility issues and tired mom Marnie (co-creator and writer Kate Fenton) makes sloppy joes, not love.

The stage is set for a juicy plot. The songs (performed by the cast) are catchy, and the supporting cast is a who’s who of hilarious Toronto talent. It’s a winning combination, and everyone looks like they’re having so much fun. 

Vicki Kim (rounding out the group as peppy but misguided Cindy), speaks of the supportive on-set atmosphere in an interview for the show’s Instagram. That pure, lady friendship love is something you just can’t fake. And it’s so nice to see.

Band Ladies will wake up your inner “let’s start a band” teenager, who yearns to jump in a van and perform their heart out for a single drink ticket. This time, you’re never too old to pursue your wildest dreams.

Band Ladies was released May 13, 2020 on Highball.TV

Vicki Kim (Cindy), Lisa Michelle Cornelius (Chloe), Dana Puddicombe (Penny),
Kirsten Rasmussen (Stephanie), Kate Fenton (Marnie)