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In the landscape of television, where shows often blend into one another with repetitive themes and familiar faces, “Melkein Mensa” emerges as a breath of fresh air. This 2020 Finnish series, whose title translates to “Almost Mensa,” offers a unique premise that sets it apart from the usual TV fare. It’s not just the title that piques interest but the content and characters that keep viewers hooked. Let’s explore what makes “Melkein Mensa” stand out, why it’s worth your time, and how it cleverly navigates the world of high IQ societies while maintaining a relatable and entertaining storyline.
The Premise
At its core, “Melkein Mensa” is about a group of individuals who, each for their own reasons, decide to join Mensa, the international high IQ society. However, the show quickly diverges from what could have been a dry, intellectual exercise into a lively and engaging exploration of its characters’ lives, ambitions, and the often humorous realities of trying to prove oneself to be among the “smartest.”
Characters and Dynamics
One of the show’s strengths lies in its diverse cast of characters. From the ambitious student who believes Mensa membership will be her ticket to academic and professional success, to the middle-aged man seeking validation after a lifetime of feeling underestimated, the series does an excellent job of showcasing a wide range of motivations behind the characters’ goals.
The Student
Let’s take the ambitious student, for example. She’s not just a stereotype of a book-smart overachiever. The show delves into her insecurities, her family dynamics, and the pressure she puts on herself to succeed. It’s a nuanced portrayal that many viewers, especially younger ones, can find pieces of themselves in.
The Underestimated
Then there’s the middle-aged man, a character that many might initially write off as going through a mid-life crisis. However, as his story unfolds, we see a person desperate for a sense of accomplishment and recognition. His journey is one of self-discovery and, ultimately, self-acceptance, which adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character.
Humor and Heart
Despite the potential for the subject matter to become overly serious or niche, “Melkein Mensa” skillfully balances its more intellectual aspects with humor and heart. The show is peppered with moments that are both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply touching, often highlighting the absurdities of life in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Mensa Test
Take, for example, the scenes revolving around the Mensa test itself. The anxiety, the preparation rituals, and the aftermath are depicted in a way that’s relatable to anyone who’s ever had to take a significant exam. The show manages to find humor in the characters’ various coping mechanisms, from obsessive studying to superstitions, making the experience feel both universal and uniquely personal.
Themes and Messages
Beyond its entertainment value, “Melkein Mensa” also tackles themes that resonate on a deeper level. It questions the value we place on intelligence and the ways in which we define and measure success. It challenges the notion that a high IQ is a golden ticket to happiness, showing instead that fulfillment comes from understanding and accepting oneself, flaws and all.
Intelligence vs. Wisdom
One of the recurring messages is the distinction between intelligence and wisdom. The characters learn, often the hard way, that knowing facts and solving complex problems doesn’t necessarily equate to making smart life choices. This theme is explored through various storylines, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own lives and the decisions they make.
Why It’s Worth Watching
For those tired of the same old TV tropes, “Melkein Mensa” offers something genuinely different. It’s a show that doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes but does so in a way that’s accessible, entertaining, and ultimately uplifting. The characters are well-developed and relatable, the humor is on point, and the messages it conveys are both timely and timeless.
A Unique Take on a Familiar Genre
While “Melkein Mensa” could be categorized as a comedy or drama, it defies easy classification. It’s a unique take on the familiar genre of ensemble casts navigating life’s challenges, with the added twist of the Mensa backdrop. This setting provides a fresh lens through which to explore issues of identity, ambition, and the human condition.
Conclusion
“Melkein Mensa” is a show that deserves a spot on your watchlist. Whether you’re drawn to its quirky premise, the depth of its characters, or its insightful commentary on society’s obsession with intelligence, there’s something here for everyone. It’s a reminder that, in the end, our value isn’t determined by a test score but by the richness of our experiences and the connections we make with others. So, if you’re looking for a series that combines humor, heart, and a bit of brainpower, “Melkein Mensa” is a perfect choice.