The thing I liked about this show is that it is about a real girl, with real problems, real friends and etc. Everything that happens on it seems authentic, it easily could be based on a true story, but they manage to keep it interesting. It reminds me a lot of "Skins", but lighter, not so much emphasis on drugs and sex, so if you like Skins, you will probably like My Mad Faty Diary. Also, it gives an insightful view on mental illness and different kinds of insecurities, which makes it easy to relate. It's the kind of show that you can't explain why, but it gets you obsessed with it, I watched the whole season in one day and I can't wait for the next one!
Add a Review
-
brunarmuller4 March 2013
-
Rachael-Harper7 February 2013When I first saw the trailer for this, I was intrigued but I didn't watch the original episode. Instead I saw it a few days later when it was repeated and I'm so glad I did. This drama manages to be both witty and insightful which is a rare thing in television today. It focuses on a young teenage girl who after spending two months in a mental hospital is released into the world again, not only does it shows the girls sarcastic and witty nature as a defence but it manages to show her vulnerable and sensitive side too making it a really great watch. Now I watch this every week and I'd advise anyone else to do the same, you won't be disappointed!!
-
thewaskwywabbit14 September 2019Good show. Why is the actor and portraying the titular Mad Fat Diarist listed fourth? Because that seems like some bitter irony.
-
cromthehamster1 March 2013Loved this show, I didn't hear about it till the season was over, which means I had to force myself not to watch all the episodes in one day! It's insightful and portrays mental illness with respect and as a real issue, not a joke like so many other shows can. The characters were thought out and felt like actual people with a life and history's. I am no longer a teen, have not been for years; but I still related to the main character. I loved how realistic it was, her thoughts and reactions to things. It was not at all far-fetched, where the viewer has to remind themselves its a TV show, I actually felt like all the events were common and normal. I was laughing and crying and I can't wait till the second season is out!
-
ashleigh_mjj17 March 2014My Mad Fat Diary is one of the funniest, most touching, realistic, well written and brilliant shows I have ever seen. And don't get me started on the soundtrack - no TV show could rival the quality and aptness of the music used on My Mad Fat Diary. Pretty much my favorite show of all time and I think that viewers of all age groups and social groups could relate to it in someway. 10/10! The characters are well formed, interesting, lovable, relatable and very realistic. This show touches on some very heavy subjects of youth and young life, but does so with the utmost respect and understanding of complexity. The actress that plays Rae is so perfect for the role, and the actor that plays her love interest Finn is fantastic and absolutely gorgeous to look at!
-
sarikizmadensuyu24 March 2013When I first saw the name of the series, it didn't impressed me that much. But still it took my interest. I was watching too many series that I forced myself not to watch "My Mad Fat Diary", but somehow I started it and it was the best decision. This TV show is the best TV show I've ever watched. It is like a movie, you're not feeling like you are watching a TV show. And it gives you something. You can learn a lot from it. I personally think that every teenager should watch it or maybe read the book (I haven't read it yet) just to free their minds from prejudgements, stereotypes, low self-esteem, hating yourself etc. Things you will regret when you are a grown up.
-
kikkapi201 January 2015MMFD is honestly one of the most amazing shows I've watched in the last year. This is the type of television show that needs to be broadcast in America and I wish that it would get picked up here. So many teens/young women like myself will find it incredibly releasable (sometimes in ways that we might not want to admit) and super poignant and funny too. The show reminds me a bit of Skins, with it's portrayal of real life. But really, I just want to make everyone watch this show because of how raw and wonderful it is. The characters are charming but troubled in the ways that teenagers can be troubled, the fantasy sequences are perfection, and the romance is adorable and so sweet. It's addictive!
-
Most coming-of-age TV-shows present a wide variety of situations which are completely irrelevant for my life. The same could not be said about My Mad Fat Diary. It had me from the first scene, with the girls in the hospital bathroom, into the awkward moments of communications between Rae and her new friends. And when it heats the 'fat' issues, in the second season, I was already completely in love. The young characters in this series handle their daily hassles in an inexperienced manner, but I find that with some issues you straggle your entire life. The cast is brilliant, the dialogues are cool, and you can count on the writers to make each character as deep as in real life. Appreciation!
-
audrulyte14 March 2014My Mad Fat Diary is an incredibly good, well written and highly addictive TV BBC series, which only defect is that it has only 6 episodes per series or season. While the target audience of this show is definitely teens, it is so good, clever, and so down to earth with all the raw nerve exposure of what being a teen is that I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good piece TV and not gets all too fixated on the fact it's about teen life. Since the story revolving in the series is set in the 1990s, personally for me it works as some sort of time travel machine - bringing back all the good, bad, hilarious or somewhat tragic experiences of own teen-hood. Since the show is not afraid to take out the many skeletons and ugly things of growing up, such as insecurities, self discovery, and own body awareness among them, instead of just going for your usual and by now quite 'safe' route of so many other shows which is just about dating, drinking, and rarely anything more, it makes the series even more convincing.
10 out of 10 and the highest possible recommendation. -
lammaaa3 December 2020Rae is one of the most unlikeable lead chracters that I've encountered in a long time. Majority of the first season was very good. Humor was good and I felt sympathetic towards Rae and her struggles, cause it seemed that she is genuinely trying to get better.
But during the second season it really started to go downhill for me. I've realized that Rae is actually self-centered, selfish brat, that sucks everyone in her problems like a black hole. And it baffles me how people around her put up with that.
Sure, being a friend/family/partner doesn't mean that you'll be there for them only when it's all sunshine and rainbows. Being there for someone means being there even when things get hard. But healthy boundaries must exist. And these folks don't have them. For me it really sends the wrong message, like you can do whatever and people will always be there for you. Or, your friends can do whatever but you have to be there for them if you are a good friend. It leads me to conclusion that maybe Rae's "gang" should actually work on their stuff as well (self-esteem etc.).
All in all, I don't think it is a bad show (hence 7/10), but I think it should have better message regarding having healthy boundaries. Like someone said, having mental health issues shouldn't be excuse for acting like a jerk. And, in a long run, no one should put up with that. -
jadeylady10 March 2014I am astounded by this program, when I saw the initial trailer I honestly thought it looked like nonsense, it wasn't painted in a good light at all. I only really checked it out due to morbid curiosity.
Well here we are nearing the end of Season 2 and I am still absolutely glued to the screen. I look forward to Mondays simply to see this.
Such an incredibly accurate portrayal of life as a teenager in 90s England, this show brings a lot back for me, good and bad. It takes many twists and turns, but our constant is Rae, insecure, sweet, broken, amazing Rae, she is so relatable it's almost upsetting at times, yet reassuring too.
A real life account of a battle with mental illness, while trying to fit in, trying to grow up, this show tackles issues few have tried to before and it works, seamlessly. I think we needed a character and a program like this, to highlight the demons that those with depression and self image issues deal with every day.
I don't really watch TV, but mine is on every Monday now at 10pm without fail, the music is awesome, the characters get straight in to your heart. It's hilariously funny, and yet gritty all at once. I love Rae's Mum, she is absolutely bonkers. It's perfection.
I simply cannot praise My mad fat diary enough. I hope it will be around for many many more seasons. This is not just entertainment, it's a lifeline for many, this is clear just browsing the comments on their Facebook page. If you haven't watched it, get to 4OD and start now, but be warned you will not be able to turn away. -
ros-90-1445585 May 2019Never have I watched a show with such an unlikeable, self-centred, obnoxious, and rude protagonist. I think Rae was well-played, but it was hard to believe that she would have friends as she was so unfriendly and consistently screwed them over.
Despite this, I did love the characters and the 90s music, clothes, and references. It brought back a lot of cool memories! -
aimee09523 January 2020The first season was great. I thought it was refreshing and positive. Unfortunately, it went way, WAY down hill in the 2nd season. If fact, I fast forwarded through a lot of it. The main character became horrible, selfish, unrealistically bonded to her "friends", and just spiritually gross. The conflict seemed realistic, but the execution of the drama was just so poorly done. Not surprised it only lasted 3 seasons. Yuck.
-
alvesaricia10 June 2018I started watching My mad fat diary two days ago solely because I've been passing by this title's name on every article about Killing Eve - which stars Jodie Comer. It took some time for me to go check it out since it seemed like a teenage show, probably a little bit like "Skins", I thought. And I hate Skins, so I really had no interest in trying MMFD.
But then the pilot showed up in my "related videos" on youtube, probably because of Killing Eve's interviews, and I decided to take a look at younger Jodie's performance. You see, the idea was to watch just a lil' bit to see Jodie and then bail out. Little did I know that I was going to get hooked right away.
This show is actually spectacular. It has a teenage set, that's right, but the themes are not teenage at all. Even though it's mostly a comedy (and a good one!), it gets really dark at times and makes you reflexive as hell. The first season not that much, it's lighter, but the second season came like a wrecking ball. I actually wish I knew a little more beforehand, because I was definitely not prepared for some of it. At the ending of the second season, I actually paused the show to cry, it was just too much. And I'm not the crying-on-movies type.
I don't even know if I'm going to finish it, I'm still digesting. But that just means it's a great show that touched me as not many have. 100% recomend. Be careful, though, if you're struggling with something. It triggered me a little bit. -
RHOMKM1 August 2015This show is a MUST watch. Highly intelligent, highly amusing, highly therapeutic. Every actor, character on this show is utterly amazing! I have watched all three seasons 10 times & I still can't get enough. In the process of watching it again for the 11th time. Do not miss out on the opportunity to watch this show as it will change your life & perspective on how real television shows should be. A gang of teenagers in Stamford showing how life can be troubled but if you have support there is nothing that can stop you. Rae Earl the leader of the pack is truly an inspiration as you experience her down fails & triumphs. I have laughed so much & have cried just the same. Watching someone experience self doubt, love for the first time, trying to 'fit in' to the world and surviving all is insightful and motivational. All hail My Mad Fat Diary, best show ever.
-
ljbostock7619 March 2013Saw this advertised and watched the first episode but didn't really have an opinion either way. Anyway, after another weekend of awful weather and even worse TV, decided to give it a try.... What a surprise!! I watched episode 2 and instantly became hooked. I really enjoyed this show as it deals with mental illness from a different perspective and show the benefits of what counselling can do for some people. There were great story lines coupled with some outstanding performances from all characters, particularly Rae, Kester and Rae's mum. Hoping this has been commissioned for a second season as it's one of the best TV show I've watched in ages!! Season finale absolutely brilliant but make sure you have your tissues at the ready - it's a bit of a tearjerker.
-
amyrocks9322 March 2014Things I love about this show:
1. Addresses key issues facing teens (and anybody really)without being overly sentimental, or sensational, which is a problem that a lot of "high school" shows contain. Skins was too crazy for me. This is better by far. 2. The title character is atypical for a female lead. She's an excellent actress, and isn't a porcelain doll like all of the other shows you see. 3. Relate able and realistic. 4. Amazing soundtrack. 5. The title character's love interest doesn't base his attraction on physical appearance alone, and you can tell he genuinely loves her.
It's really a must-watch. -
It is really refreshing, after two crap TV show marathons, to watch something so amazing.
I had never heard anything about the books or this show until I started seeing posts on my Tumblr dash nearly daily and decided to give it a go.
I'm beyond glad that I did.
It has both dark, heavy scenes and funny, light scenes throughout a beautifully written series.
The cast is brilliant but both Sharon Rooney (Rae) and Claire Rushbrook (Rae's mother) are, for me, the scene stealers of the show. Their relationship, although turbulent at most times, I think reflect that of an average everyday family.
What I like most about this show is it's realness, it's humanity. It's not showy or over the top and it's deals with real issues in a sensitive and honest way.
I could not recommend this show enough, I have already watched Series 1 twice.
Please note that this show deals with suicide, self-harm and mental issues so if any of this affects you, I would advise caution in making your decision on watching this. -
slingsbyeva29 November 2021The writing of and acting in this show is emotive, nuanced, relatable, honest, raw...just amazing. The portrayal of mental health is very accurate for me, I would even say this show is slightly ahead of it's time. I really cared about the characters when I watched it, I honestly became addicted to it.
My only issue with the show is that, somewhat incoherently, though Rae struggles with many difficult things, there are some terrible things that she seems to brush off.
The effect of the death of Tix on Rae is almost entirely glossed over, an event for which Rae thinks she is at fault. This is something that would surely traumatise and hurt someone deeply.
Then, the sexual assault by Saul. This is something that Rae just seems to get over. Granted, she didn't come to any physical harm, but it was certainly very unpleasant to watch, would be very unpleasant to experience, and would definitely cause emotional harm.
This show dealt with many different complex feelings, Rae's feelings towards herself, her warped perception of her interpersonal relationships, the familial tension between Rae and her mother (some of the best and most poignant acting in the show). In fact, the show explored 'regular' teenage fears and emotions along with emotional unwellness very deftly. So then, why did it seem to brush off these extremely upsetting things?
My last criticism is that, though it's not explicitly clear whether or not Rae's mum moves to Tunisia, I found it very hard to believe, given what Rae has gone through, that her mum would leave her vulnerable 18 year old daughter and move to a different country, even short term, and even when Rae is moving to Bristol.
So, those scruples are why MMFD is nearly perfect. Acting, script, casting, soundtrack/score, most of the screenplay: faultless. The interpolation of scribbled drawings onto real life tableaux, a really nice, grounding touch.
I loved this show, and would watch it again. -
VioletViolette15 August 2019It's based on a real story. That's even more infuriating.
Rae is an unbelievably selfish, horrible, narcissistic and self loathing creature.
So many people saw so many qualities in her they loved for some reason, all I saw was a bad friend, bad daughter, bad girlfriend, bad patient, etc. The worst part? Everyone looks the other way and forgives blindly, no matter if she's almost caused a death, hurt someone deeply, taken all privileges for granted or felt so sorry for herself she was oblivious to the fact that other humans have needs and feelings too.
What a perfect example of a terrible human. Poor mental health is not a licence to destroy people around you.
Again, it's based on a true story so I'm speaking directly to the real Rae Earl, too. -
ejayb-9292429 December 2021Fabulous acting and direction in first two seasons. The 90s setting fed by an amazing soundtrack and the whole thing peppered with warmth and humour. You are likely to fall in love with Rae and Finn and wince at some of the hideously familiar and embarrassing conversations. All the actors do a phenomenal job and I rewatched the first 13 episodes so often I could have joined in with the dialogue.
Season 3 felt like a betrayal. Although this series is based on a true story, the central love story isn't so it was someone's choice for Finn to let Raye down in a totally uncharacteristic way. Rae could have been allowed to just make a hard choice- women do. -
mankwanzhong22 November 2023Overall it is a great series with cool rock music and amazing sense of humour
What I like :- Super dope music ;Oasis, The cure, Radiohead, suede, Beatles. Just dope
-" Finn Nelson " he is so hot and the personality is just (french kiss)- I love Chloe after watching the whole series
- I am a person who thinks long conversations in a film is quiet boring but just not this, I've to be honest this is actually quiet educational in terms of like discovering your emotions and how do you deal with it. I love the part where she realise her fear and faced it, took quiet long but in reality, somethings just need quiet a lot of time to process it. You might process it in 10 minute, 1 day, 1 year or even longer.
- its like walking through a forest, you don't know what is in front , you might be scared, but you just keep going
What I dislike :- yes, sometimes it takes time to process, but once you step out, you can't step back in. I think the biggest problem with Rae is that she kept rotating around the bad cycle. Sometimes I can kinda guess what is she about to do. I just hate seeing her fall back in.
- the ending is kinda like pushing everything toward a point. I mean on the last few episodes before the end of the episode, she is still afraid to go to college and a lot is still happening. She falls into the dark hole again and in a sudden everything is alright ? I mean from the process I can definitely tell she is a person who takes in information and process it very very very slow. Suddenly she process it so fast? ( ps: i do think its because there is no season 4 so they just quicken the pace)
-
sandycochrane-9775811 November 2021Are we meant to feel sorry for a character who became more hateful, self absorbed, selfish and egotistical as the series went on? Because I know I didn't. Every other character was OK but Rae? Wow what a complete ball ache she was to watch. I skipped some bits because I found myself swearing at the tv when she was on. If this is truly what the real Rachael Earle was like, what a vile person she was.
The only thing that kept me watching was nostalgia and the 90s soundtrack. Oh and Keith Allen ofcourse. -
rumour-mill18 September 2020I bloody love this programme. if you're looking for the perfect blend of drama, comedy and realism in a coming-of-age TV series, 'My Mad Fat Diary' is it.
I watched some of this back when it originally aired, but sadly life got in the way and I didn't finish it. However, I just had the pleasure of binge-watching the whole thing, and - dammit - this programme never fails to choke me up.
Sharon Rooney stole and broke my heart in equal measure with her portrayal of Rae Earl. What a talent - cheers m'dear! But the supporting cast are mostly excellent too - especially Nico Mirallegro (Finn), Claire Rushbrook (Rae's mum), Ian Hart (Kester), Jodie Corner (Chloe) and Turlough Convery (Liam).
'My Mad Fat Diary' is an unnervingly relatable story of a young adult struggling with mental health problems, on top of all the other issues teens have to go through. There are plenty of funny moments, including some wonderfully crude turns of phrase courtesy of Rae's inner monologue; and plenty of heartbreaking moments, especially as we see anxiety pile up on our protagonist.
It's not flawless. Series 2 didn't quite live up to series 1's high watermark, occasionally stumbling into more clichéd, American highschool movie territory. But Series 3 redeemed things, and - though just three episodes - served as a well-needed, well-written finalé.
'My Mad Fat Diary' will always hold a special place in my heart. Great writing, rounded characters, full of humour and a true emotional rollercoaster. Oh, and let's not forget the cracking '90s soundtrack - my god! Radiohead, The Verve, Blur, Pulp, Oasis, Lightning Seeds, Charlatans, Massive Attack, Bjork, Smashing Pumpkins... I want to kiss whoever was responsible.
This was such a little gem. -
rshanley-1038024 February 2021This has got to be the best 'coming of age' show out there. The storyline as absolutely brilliant, not to mention the talent of the actors, just wonderful. The entire show beautifully moves from one episode to the next drawing in everg watcher, only for them to be devestated when they realise they've finished watching it all. Now for the real magic- the way this is written, you're part of 'The Gang' within the first episode and that's what makes this show even more special. Not many story writers, directors and actors have the ability to do that, but with this, they were born to be in the film industry. The icing on the cake for this series has got to be the immense choice of music for the soundtrack, just makes it phenomenal! Just incredible. Stan Ford Forever.