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Trying

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General Review

Parent's Guide to Trying

Trying (2020) is a heartwarming and humorous British comedy-drama series following Nikki and Jason, a couple in their thirties struggling with infertility. Their journey to become parents leads them to explore adoption, a process that unfolds with both bureaucratic challenges and profound emotional experiences. Set in London, the show balances its comedic elements with sincere emotional depth, portraying the ups and downs of forming a family outside traditional molds. The series is known for its relatable characters, genuine affection between the leads, and an uplifting tone despite the difficulties they face. It is generally considered appropriate for audiences seeking a gentle yet emotionally resonant story about love, perseverance, and the meaning of family.

Things to Consider

Medium1
Romance and Sexual Content
Low8
LGBTQ & Gender IdentityViolenceProfanityWitchcraft & OccultSubstance UseScary & Intense ContentDisrespect & RebellionAnti-Christian Themes
Medium1

Romance and Sexual Content

Romance is a central theme as the show revolves around Nikki and Jason, a couple described as 'madly in love' who are trying to have a baby through adoption. The portrayal of their relationship is consistently described as 'heartfelt' and 'gentle', suggesting romantic affection and implied intimacy within a marital context, without explicit sexual acts or graphic nudity.

Low8

LGBTQ & Gender Identity

Searches for LGBTQ+ or gender identity themes within "Trying (2020)" did not yield specific characters or plotlines. While other media about queer representation were mentioned in search results, these were distinct from the series in question. The show's focus is on a heterosexual couple's adoption journey.

Violence

The series is consistently described as a 'heartfelt, hilarious, and unapologetically British' comedy-drama, without any indication of graphic violence, physical fights, or threats. The tone is noted as 'gentle' and focuses on emotional depth and humor.

Profanity

There were no specific mentions or warnings regarding profanity or strong language in the provided search results. Given the show's general description as a 'gentle' and 'heartwarming' comedy-drama, high levels of explicit profanity are unlikely.

Witchcraft & Occult

There is no evidence in the search results to suggest the presence of witchcraft, occult themes, magic rituals, or supernatural elements in "Trying (2020)". The show is grounded in realistic, everyday experiences of a couple seeking to adopt.

Substance Use

The search results provided no indication of illegal drug use, drug paraphernalia, addiction, or significant focus on alcohol or smoking within "Trying (2020)". The show's narrative centers on the emotional and logistical aspects of adoption.

Scary & Intense Content

The series is uniformly characterized as a 'comedy-drama' that is 'heartfelt' and 'hilarious'. There are no mentions of graphic violence, horror elements, jump scares, disturbing imagery, or life-threatening situations that would constitute scary or intense content.

Disrespect & Rebellion

While the main characters, Nikki and Jason, are portrayed as 'imperfect' and 'argue, mess up, and sometimes say the wrong thing', this occurs within the context of a loving relationship and the stresses of the adoption process. There is no evidence of open defiance of authority, deliberate rudeness, or rebellious acts that lead to dangerous situations as a central theme.

Anti-Christian Themes

There is no information in the search results suggesting the presence of anti-Christian themes, mockery of Christian beliefs, or sacrilegious acts. The show is focused on secular themes of family, love, and the adoption process.

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From a Christian worldview, "Trying" presents a number of commendable themes. The core narrative of Nikki and Jason's persistent efforts to build a family through adoption, despite infertility struggles, aligns strongly with biblical values of perseverance, commitment within marriage, and the inherent value of family. The show's portrayal of a couple 'madly in love' navigating life's challenges together, supporting each other through an 'emotional odyssey', reflects the Christian ideal of marriage as a covenantal relationship. The pursuit of adoption also echoes biblical commands to care for children and the vulnerable, demonstrating a selfless love that seeks to provide a home for those in need. Character morality in "Trying" seems to lean towards a generally virtuous portrayal. While the characters are described as 'imperfect' and prone to 'argu[ing], mess[ing] up, and sometimes say[ing] the wrong thing', their underlying motives appear to be rooted in love and a desire to do good. The narrative arc likely provides moral accountability through the natural consequences of their actions and the challenges they face, rather than explicitly rewarding vice. The show's 'grounded, everyday feel' and focus on relatable human experiences suggest a worldview that, while not explicitly transcendent, values human connection, love, and the pursuit of good within a relational context. Themes of sacrifice (in the effort and cost of adoption), forgiveness (in navigating imperfections), and grace (in extending understanding to one another) are implicitly present in their journey. Family values are central, portraying family relationships as foundational, even when they don't conform to traditional molds. The series explores the 'complexity of forming a family that doesn't follow the traditional mold', emphasizing that love and commitment, rather than biological ties alone, define a family. Authority, particularly within the adoption process, is navigated by the couple, reflecting a journey of submission to process and growth. While explicit faith representation is not a primary theme, the overarching message of hope, love, and resilience in the face of adversity resonates with many Christian teachings regarding enduring hardship with faith and determination.

Additional Context

Best For Ages

Age 14+.

Good to Know

The show is described as a 'gentle' and 'warm-hearted' series, balancing humor with genuine emotional weight as it explores the complexities of adoption. It highlights themes of perseverance and the untraditional ways families are formed.

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