6.5 / 10 (based on 57 reviews)
Gert and Jes have been together for a very long time. One day Gert gets the job of his life: to work in a large branch in Shanghai. That job is his dream and he knows that Jes would go with him – Jes always follows him everywhere. Right? Not so. The day of departure, she decides not to go. The otherwise so compliant Jes decides for once in her life to make a decision for herself, hoping that Gert will change his mind for once. She dumps her boyfriend and follows her own path. But Gert departs for China. Jes leads a single life in Brussels, helped by her sister Michelle, her macho gay friend John, the cynical lawyer Luc and her new best friend, the chatty artist Sofia. Her choice has implications for everyone.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Lotte Heijtenis, Pascale Platel, Kadèr Gürbüz, Koen De Graeve
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1 season, 13 episodes
Shows Most Like Jes (2009)
#hetisingewikkeld (2017)
7.3 / 10 (based on 111 reviews)
None
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Lize Feryn, Geert Hunaerts, Charlotte Vandermeersch, Ben Segers
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2 seasons, 16 episodes
Glad IJs (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 393 reviews)
Phil “Frisco” Druyts is a hardworking businessman who is very popular with his employees, but not so much with his own family. His sudden kidnapping causes a public uproar.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Main Cast: Lucas Van den Eynde, Koen De Bouw, Vincent Van Sande, Barbara Sarafian
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1 season, 10 episodes
Grond (2021)
7.2 / 10 (based on 992 reviews)
A young entrepreneur turns Belgium’s Moroccan community on its head by trying to change their funeral tradition.
Genre:
Main Cast: Yassine Ouaich, Ward Kerremans, Ahlaam Teghadouini, Saïd Boumazoughe
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1 season, 8 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
In 2009, a TV show quietly made its way onto screens, capturing the hearts of many and leaving a lasting impression on its audience. The show was “Jes.” Despite not being a massive hit in terms of mainstream recognition, “Jes” managed to carve out its own niche, cultivating a dedicated fan base that appreciated its unique charm, storytelling, and character development. Let’s take a closer look at what made “Jes” stand out and why it’s worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.
The Premise
At its core, “Jes” was a show about the everyday life of its titular character, Jes. What set it apart was its approach to storytelling. The show skillfully blended humor with moments of introspection, allowing viewers to connect with Jes on a personal level. Each episode explored different facets of Jes’s life, from relationships and career challenges to personal growth and self-discovery. This relatable content was a breath of fresh air at a time when TV was saturated with high-stakes dramas and reality TV escapism.
Characters and Relationships
One of the show’s strongest points was its well-rounded characters. Jes, portrayed with depth and nuance, was surrounded by a cast of characters that were equally compelling. The show took its time to flesh out these characters, making their interactions and relationships feel genuine and impactful. Whether it was the dynamics of Jes’s family life or the ups and downs of friendships and romantic relationships, “Jes” presented these bonds in a way that was both realistic and heartwarming.
Example: The Best Friend Dynamic
A standout relationship in the series was between Jes and their best friend. This relationship was depicted with a level of authenticity rarely seen on TV. They supported each other through thick and thin, but what made their dynamic truly special was how the show depicted their disagreements and reconciliations. It wasn’t just about the good times; it was about how they navigated the rough patches, showcasing a deep and enduring friendship that resonated with many viewers.
Storytelling and Themes
“Jes” excelled in its storytelling, often weaving together multiple storylines in a single episode without feeling cluttered or rushed. The themes explored in the show were universal, touching on issues like identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in life. These themes were handled with care, never feeling preachy or heavy-handed. Instead, “Jes” invited viewers to reflect on their own lives and experiences, making the show both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Anecdote: The Career Crossroads Episode
A memorable episode that exemplifies the show’s storytelling prowess is when Jes faces a major career decision. The episode masterfully balances the tension of this life-changing choice with lighter moments, allowing viewers to feel the weight of Jes’s dilemma while also providing relief through humor and heartwarming interactions. This episode, like many others, showcased the show’s ability to tackle significant life moments with grace and empathy.
The Humor
Despite the depth of its themes and character development, “Jes” never lost its sense of humor. The show was genuinely funny, often using situational comedy and witty dialogue to lighten the mood. This balance of humor and drama was key to its appeal, ensuring that it never felt too heavy despite the serious topics it sometimes tackled.
Example: Jes’s Awkward Date
One of the funniest moments in the series is Jes’s disastrously awkward date. The episode is filled with cringe-worthy yet hilarious mishaps that many can relate to. It’s a perfect example of how “Jes” used humor to explore the awkwardness of dating, making viewers laugh while also feeling a pang of sympathy for Jes.
Why “Jes” Stands the Test of Time
Even years after its initial release, “Jes” remains relevant. Its exploration of universal themes, combined with strong character development and a perfect blend of humor and drama, makes it a show that continues to resonate with audiences. “Jes” is a reminder of the power of simple, relatable storytelling in creating a lasting impact.
Conclusion
“Jes” might not have been the biggest show of 2009, but its legacy endures. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most impactful stories are those that reflect our own lives back at us, with all the complexity, humor, and beauty that comes with being human. Whether you’re revisiting the series or discovering it for the first time, “Jes” offers a refreshing take on the TV landscape, proving that sometimes, the simplest stories are the most profound.