? Anthology series can be tricky to execute, but Roar manages to pull it off in style. Based on a book of short stories by Cecelia Ahern, the series boasts an impressive ensemble cast and eight episodes, with each exploring women’s experiences in bizarre and surreal situations — with each episode bringing something fresh to the table.

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The first episode centers on author Wanda Shepard (Issa Rae), who’s in Los Angeles to negotiate a movie deal for her book about institutionalized racism. Initially thrilled by the luxurious accommodations and the studio’s grand plans for her work, Rae’s excitement quickly turns to discomfort as she feels increasingly overlooked by the people around her.

The episode offers visceral exploration of institutionalized racism and sexism: When the studio exec (Nick Kroll) insists on turning her deeply personal book into a virtual reality film, Rae starts to feel as though she’s slipping away. From being ignored at a boutique to being passed over at a party, Rae begins to literally disappear — an eerie reflection of the feeling of invisibility she faces in her career and the world around her.

Roar does a fantastic job of making its stories visually compelling. While the pacing of the half-hour format sometimes leaves important emotional beats underdeveloped, the central themes are clear and impactful. The show’s simplicity allows it to pack a punch without forcing its message. Though it may not land perfectly every time, Roar is a solid exploration of feminism, invisibility, and the bizarre, making it a worthy watch.

WHERE TO WATCH- You can watch the show on Apple TV+ or catch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 2:12).

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