Review:
“The Life You Wanted” is a touching Netflix series that beautifully explores LGBTQ+ representation and gender equality through a moving love story. The plot is full of emotion, dealing with themes like identity, acceptance, and the complexities of human relationships.
The series is notable for its sincere portrayal of a Gay Man’s journey. It delves into his struggles and triumphs, showing the audience what it means to be true to oneself. His story is intertwined with the love and support of his family, which adds depth to the narrative.
The relationships in the series are intricate and realistic, highlighting how love can be both complicated and rewarding. The characters’ interactions and personal growth are depicted in a heartfelt manner, making the story relatable and impactful. Overall, “The Life You Wanted” is a significant series that sheds light on important social issues while telling a captivating and emotional story.
Themes:
The series explores important themes like gender equality and LGBTQ+ representation. It highlights the significance of self-acceptance and acceptance by society, showing how people navigate their identities in a world that can be resistant to change. The story also focuses on friendship and true love, demonstrating the strong and unbreakable connections that can form between people, despite societal pressures. The series advocates for the freedom to live genuinely, emphasizing the bravery needed to embrace and express one’s true self.
In more detail, the series shows how men and women should be treated equally and how people from the LGBTQ+ community deserve the same respect and acceptance as everyone else. It portrays characters who are learning to accept themselves for who they are, even when society doesn’t always make it easy. These characters face challenges but find ways to stay true to themselves and their identities.
Friendship plays a crucial role in the series. It depicts how friends can support each other through difficult times and help each other grow. The bonds of friendship are shown to be incredibly strong, providing a source of comfort and strength.
True love is another key theme. The series illustrates that love can conquer obstacles and that real love goes beyond societal norms and expectations. It showcases different kinds of love, whether romantic or platonic, and emphasizes that love is a powerful force that brings people together.
Overall, the series champions the idea that everyone should have the freedom to be themselves. It celebrates the courage it takes for individuals to live authentically and encourages viewers to embrace their own true selves, regardless of what others might think or say.
Plot:
“The Life You Wanted” is a Netflix series that beautifully showcases LGBTQ+ representation and gender equality through a heartfelt love story centered around Gloria and Marina.
Gloria was born male but always felt and acted effeminate, and was attracted to men. Identifying as gay, Gloria faced a lot of mistreatment and harassment because of his appearance and sexuality. Despite these challenges, he found acceptance and a sense of belonging as a bar dancer, thanks to his friendly nature. Determined to live life as his true self, he eventually underwent gender-affirming surgery, transforming into a woman.
Fifteen years after her transformation, Marina unexpectedly reenters Gloria’s life. Marina is nine months pregnant and has two children with her: Andrea, a 15-year-old boy, and a 7-year-old girl. Marina reveals a shocking truth to Gloria—Andrea is Gloria’s son. This revelation shatters Gloria, leaving her unsure how to react, especially given her established female identity in her new community. Gloria worries about the potential backlash and the impact on Marina’s children if the truth were to come out, as she supports herself through bar dancing and other activities, along with running a restaurant.
Despite the situation’s complexity, Gloria’s deep love for Marina compels her to help. The drama escalates with the arrival of Marina’s ex-boyfriend, Sergio, who is the father of her 7-year-old daughter, followed by Pietro, the father of Marina’s unborn child. The tension reaches a peak when Marina’s doctor diagnoses her with a brain tumor, which could lead to death or coma without surgery. Initially terrified of the surgery’s risks, Marina is eventually persuaded by Gloria to undergo the operation.
On the night before the surgery, Marina’s recent ex-boyfriend visits her at the hospital, hoping to see his newborn child. A confrontation ensues, during which he accidentally pushes Marina off the hospital terrace, resulting in her death. In the aftermath, Gloria takes Marina’s children to a safe place and faces the future with resilience.
“The Life You Wanted” is a unique series that deeply resonates with themes of gender equality, true love, friendship, and the freedom to live authentically. It highlights the struggles and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals, showcasing the importance of acceptance and understanding. Gloria’s journey from a mistreated gay man to a beloved woman and guardian to Marina’s children is a testament to the strength of love and the human spirit.
I would rate this series 4.5 Out of 5!