In the third installment of Season 2 of "Alma's Not Normal," entitled "Who the F Is Alice?," we embark on an emotionally charged odyssey through the tumultuous interplay of humor and sorrow that epitomizes the Nuthall clan. As they convene for the solemn rites of Great Granny Alice, Alma comes to a profound realization: it is her unorthodox, Boltonian family that shapes her very essence.
The episode unfolds with Alma, exasperated yet introspective, pondering her role as the de facto caretaker for her grandmother, Joan, likening herself to a butler-esque figure—a stark yet darkly humorous parallel that colors their dynamic. This introduces the episode's thematic tapestry, where the family grapples with the intricate labyrinth of grief and affliction, weaving through it with a blend of obstinacy and mirth.
As the Nuthalls convene to commemorate the life of Great Granny Alice, an ensemble of eccentric relatives emerges, each imbued with a quirky humor and dysfunction that stands out in stark relief. Auntie Evie, renowned for her razor-sharp tongue and questionable ethics, emerges as a comedic linchpin, amplifying the chaotic humor that permeates the air.
The funeral preparations unfold as a surreal spectacle of absurdity, where the family indulges in grotesquely humorous conversations about coffin varieties and the sobering economics of mortality. These scenes serve as a testament to the series' prowess in mining humor from the depths of despair, while simultaneously exposing the latent tensions and long-simmering grievances that ripple beneath the family's surface.
The funeral stands as a tumultuous spectacle, where family dynamics reach fever pitch as Auntie Evie engages in fiery confrontations, exposing the deeply flawed relationships that epitomize the Nuthall family. Throughout this maelstrom, Alma passionately urges her grandmother to reconsider her stance on attending the funeral, adding yet another complex layer to the already intricate family saga.
In a moment of poignant catharsis, Alma discovers humor in the midst of sorrow, making a poignant decision that Grandma should undergo chemotherapy, inspired by a poignant reflection on the fragility of life. This pivotal choice marks a transformative moment for both women, emphasizing the profound importance of laughter and connection even in the face of loss.
The episode draws to a close with a chaotic yet heartfelt celebration of family and mirth, rising above the veil of grief. This closing scene serves as a potent reminder of the distinctive bond and whimsical humor that characterize the Nuthall family, prompting the audience to contemplate the realities of illness and the crucial significance of nurturing humor and connection with loved ones.
"Who the F Is Alice?" delves deeply into the quirky quirks of the Nuthall family and their instrumental role in shaping Alma's identity. This episode skillfully balances humor with the stark seriousness of cancer and the intricate dynamics of family life, illuminating the coping strategies employed by the family as they grapple with their emotions and relationships. Through its raw and relatable depiction, "Alma's Not Normal" continues to captivate audiences as a must-watch for fans of British comedy and those seeking a show that expertly balances realism with absurdity.
