An Ode to Fleabag
If you’re in your late 20s or 30s and haven’t watched Fleabag yet, you’ve got to add it to your watchlist! (read this only after you've watched. save this post instead.)
Fleabag is one of those shows that leaves you thinking, “How did I not discover this sooner?”
This series was absolutely incredible! It has only two seasons, with six episodes each. I found it so relatable, with strong performances from the entire cast and fantastic writing. The screenplay was truly beautiful. It takes a lot for a writer to know when to end a story, especially at its peak, but Phoebe Waller-Bridge did an amazing job, delivering a beautiful and raw ending for Fleabag.
Fleabag (played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge herself) instantly became one of my favourite tv characters. Her witty comments, quirkiness, the way she grapples with grief, her cringes, and how she finds herself while healing on her own terms—all of these elements shape who she is. I won’t say it’s ideal, but it reflects us as humans. We’re complicated in our own ways. The character is portrayed with such rawness and depth. As humans, we are covered in layers, and we must keep peeling them back to discover who we truly are inside. We are not defined solely by our mistakes; we are shaped by our experiences.
Don’t even get me started on the scene where she says, “I love you,” and The Priest replies, “It’ll pass.” But just before he leaves, he turns around and says, “I love you too.” That moment was pure poetry—raw, deep, and unforgettable.
I also love the moments when the protagonist interacts with her audience, especially this scene when The Priest breaks the fourth wall! I was genuinely shocked. I’m not quite sure what was that about or why Phoebe chose to have the Priest notice her interacting with us (the audience). Perhaps, it’s to show that he’s the only one who can truly see through her. This is just my theory, but if you have any insights, let me know in the comments section!
Another scene that truly resonated with me was the conversation Fleabag (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) had with Belinda (Kristin Scott Thomas) at the bar. Their discussion about how pain is an intrinsic part of being a woman was profoundly moving. The cosy setting, combined with the delivery of the dialogue and the timing, was both poignant and mesmerising. A scene like this, addressing topics such as menstruation and menopause, is so important. It’s quite rare to see these conversations happen so openly. (god, i’m thankful for women writers)
“Women are born with pain built in. It’s our physical destiny. Period pain, sore boobs, childbirth, we carry it within ourselves throughout our lives.”
I was so sad to find out that the series was only two seasons but i also respect Phoebe’s decision to end it after season 2— knowing that continuing would not do justice to Fleabag’s journey and growth.
“respect that arc and let [Fleabag] go and live for a bit.”
(In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter)
This final scene, when Fleabag looked directly at the camera and shook her head “no,” signalling us not to follow her—a heartwarming way for the writer to conclude the series. Stellar screenplay!
Damn, I love this series so much. I feel envious and frustrated that I can’t write a brilliant masterpiece like this. ever. Phoebe Waller-Bridge has officially earned a top spot as my favourite actor and screenwriter.
Thank you, Phoebe for Fleabag.
Watch it on Prime Video