Inside Prime Video’s ‘Overcompensating’: A Fresh Take on College Life
Prime Video’s latest comedy series, Overcompensating, provides a humorous yet poignant exploration of the complexities of college life through the lens of its creator and star, Benito Skinner. Drawing from his own experiences in the mid-2010s, Skinner uses this series to portray a heightened version of his coming-out journey.
Plot Overview
The series follows the character Benny, played by Skinner, a closeted ex-high school football player who adopts the persona of a stereotypical college frat bro. As Benny attempts to fit into this mold, he struggles to suppress his true self, even when he encounters a campus group dubbed “The Alliance of Gay People and Lesbians and Bisexual People and Asexuals too.”
The Dynamic Duo: Benny and Carmen
Central to the narrative is the evolving friendship between Benny and Carmen, portrayed by Wally Baram. Skinner emphasizes that Carmen is more than just a supporting character; she is vital to Benny’s path to self-acceptance.
- Skinner notes, “Naturally that story and getting to college, it’s this coming of age thing.”
- He highlights how both characters navigate personal journeys simultaneously, bringing depth to their relationship.
Carmen: A Relatable Character
Baram resonated with her character, identifying with Carmen’s awkwardness and her quest to fit in. Describing her initial impression of the script, she states, “I got the script, and within the first three pages, there’s this character — this frizzy, curly haired girl who’s kind of awkward.”
As their relationship unfolds amidst comedic miscommunication, Carmen grapples with her misunderstanding of Benny’s true nature. Baram reflects on this complexity, remarking, “It’s like, how could you not know he was gay? But in these relationships I’ve had with women, there was so much confusion and miscommunication.”
The Search for Authenticity
Finding an actress capable of embodying Carmen’s endearing awkwardness was pivotal for Skinner. His search culminated in discovering Baram through her performance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” where she humorously shared her struggles with adulthood.
Skinner expressed that Baram truly encapsulated the essence of Carmen as he had envisioned her. Reflecting on their chemistry, Baram adds, “When we met in person, I felt like I had little maracas out.”
A Captivating Ensemble
While the chemistry between Benny and Carmen is crucial, the series expands to feature a broader ensemble cast, including characters like Benny’s sister Grace, played by Mary Beth Barone. This diverse group enriches the depiction of the college experience, capturing both the humor and awkwardness of young adulthood.
Nostalgia and Cultural Touchstones
Throughout the eight-episode season, Overcompensating incorporates a soundtrack laden with nostalgic references, resonating deeply with millennials. The show opens with Britney Spears’ “Lucky” and weaves in hits from My Chemical Romance, demonstrating the universal struggles of adolescence.
Thematic Depth
Despite its comedic exterior, the series delves into serious themes such as identity, acceptance, and the concept of found families. Skinner articulates that the essence of the show lies in fostering genuine relationships that allow individuals to feel comfortable being themselves.
As Baram portrays, Carmen embodies the journey everyone confronts while learning to navigate social interactions: “I was a disingenuous version of myself,” she admits, highlighting the universal human experience of self-discovery.
In conclusion, Overcompensating masterfully blends humor with heartfelt moments, making eloquent commentary on the often-chaotic landscape of college life while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in relationships.