If a TV Show Were a Sour Patch Kid: ‘Ted Lasso‘

The bite of the language is what seems incompatible with a show so dedicated to earnestness, can-do-it-iveness, and actual glee. Ted Lasso bursts with harshness and joy at once.

Jason Sudeikis commands the screen with a rational egoism that puts a new face on the identity of post 9-11-2001 America abroad. While most shows become mired in cynicism, saturated with sarcasm, and overwhelmed by condescension, Lasso presents a series that is bittersweet to perfect pitch (pun intended).

“The association football league Sudeikis’ character coaches (known in America as “soccer,” a word derived from the term “association”) is full of piss and venom. Former girlfriends and athletes display outright varying degrees of joy that almost matches Lasso’s. However, there are narcissists, megalomaniacs, anger-driven, and somewhat vicious characters also.

One is Phil Dunster’s character, Jamie Tartt. He’s got the mouth of a Royal Marine, and the attitude that he is better than everyone else. Still, there’s room for him to be contemplative. Tartt has talent by the metres. However, he can’t seem to get out of his own way. Here is where the show Lasso steps in to inject optimism and even a bit of happiness amidst the salty language and vicious intent.

Hannah Weddingham’s character, Rebecca Welton, could have simply been an insufferable ice queen. Instead, the writers and producers created a woman who could be cold at times but in the presence of Lasso, melt away her scornfulness and express needed warmth.

The grace and wittiness of Lasso is rooted in the Americanism the United Kingdom never knew. That spirit unique to the United States; to be good, and rationally selfish, is evident throughout this comedy.

With the scenarios that include discharging insults to reveal the true actions of the players, the honesty that exists on the show shines through the most.

If the series has any flaws, they would have to be in the moments where the music plays during a scene to underscore sincerity. Nevertheless, Lasso is interesting and endearing despite this minor feature.

If there is ever a time for the world to enjoy a TV comedy series, it is this one. Even the inconsistent YouTubers at Screen Junkies “Honest Trailers” say in their review, the show is worth viewing, even if it can be corny at times.

Sudeikis isn’t bumbling or inept. He may be in over his head at times, but he always lands on his feet. That is the essence of this excellent show. He takes the time to instruct, encourage, and console. Even he needs these sentiments at times.

That’s what makes this presentation so wondrous. It never spits in its own face, or undercuts its love of playing the game. It doesn’t take on major issues of the world, just the personal lives of the web of diverse and interesting characters.

The themes do stand out like an injury after a penalty kick. The dissolution of marriages and other relationships, the loss of things besides football matches, and the struggle to form familial ties all provide great fodder for crisp dramedy.

Lasso checks all the boxes of a chuckle-worthy, even moving show. The upright, confident posture of Ted Lasso is one to be modeled. With all the ironic, sour, and ruthless humor that pervades the television landscape, this show is a beacon in a wasteland.

It looks bright for this show to continue its character arcs and for the storylines to delve deeper into the idealism that makes it so brilliant. The brightest light among the other disturbing images of ugly Americans abroad on TV and in real life, Lasso blasts those notions away with aplomb.

For Sudeikis and company, there’s a chance for audiences to cheer on everyone who deserves to be applauded.