Thursday, February 2, 2012

Jane by Design is Designed to Pretty Entertaining

So, I admit, when the commercials first popped up for this show on my TV, my initial reaction was to laugh it off. It looked like another one of ABC Family's attempt at original content that was so completely different from anything else out there that it would be like I don't know, groundbreaking (may I remind you of The Nine Lives of Chloe King?).

However, the other day, on a recommendation from a friend, I reluctantly opened the ABC Family on Demand and started to watch the series from the pilot on. And, my thoughts on the television drama? Actually pretty entertaining.



The show centers around a high school student named Jane Quimby (played by Erica Dasher), with a sunny disposition, a quriky personality, and a keen eye for fashion(serious, I am jealous of almost everything she wears). Basically through a mistaken identity, she goes in for an internship and comes out as assistant to one of the head honchos at that fashion company. Not only does the mix up and the fact Jane needs to pretend to be an adult even when she hasn't graduated high school yet make for an interesting dynamic; but the fact this young girl has landed her dream job (and may I say a job that many people would kill for) and it willing to do whatever and whenever for it, is kind of refreshing. She juggles school, work, the fashion life and her high school drama, and literally pulls it off amazingly.

The show has a cute plot line and I love the whole "Devil Wears Prada," aspect of it. Who doesn't love Anne Hathaway, frumpy assistant turned glamazon? The only difference here is Jane knows who she is and she knows what she loves, and that's fashion. And as someone who considers herself a fashionista in training(emphasis on training), I can appreciate her pure love for all things cloth.


The relationships are nicely developed in the show as well. Jane with her brother Ben, have an adorable sibling love and dependency that would make any parent swoon. Her best friend, Billy, is like a pet, he does everything for her, and yet, I kind of love it. Their best friendship would give Turk and JD a run for their money(except not really because I mean, GUY LOVE, hello? Also, that was a SCRUBS reference for those of you who are unaware). She of course has an enemy, which all protagonists do, and in a crazy twist her arch enemy is kind of in love with her best friend. So.Much.Drama.

The show is also not lacking of romance. Jane has got two guys she kind of has eyes for. There's Jeremy, the uber talented and cute British designer who works with her at the company. Then there is Nick, your typical high school jock with a god complex and cute hair. Girl has got her work cut our for her; yet having two guys pining over you doesn't seem too horrible, now does it.



Anyway, the show is only a few episodes in, and I actually really like it. It's fun and upbeat with just enough drama. The fashion is probably my favorite part of the show and I love seeing the "inner workings" or the fashion industry(even if it is fictional). So, my verdict is to check this show out; you may just be surprised at how entertained you actually are.

And, on a related yet completely random and ridiculous note, Jane balancing two insane lives and running from high school to a high profile job, all in a day, makes me feel so much better about my insane schedule right now. In a weird way, Jane has reminded me that, if there's something you want, it doesn't matter how insane life can get, you go for it no matter what, and enjoy the ride.

Jane By Design airs on Tuesdays at 8pm.

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