Streaming series debut on RTL: "Softies" explores contemporary male dynamics
Title: Unraveling Masculinity in the Modern Age: A Look at "Softies"
Step into the world of "Softies," a drama-comedy series running on RTL+ since June 6, that delves into the lives of three twentysomethings searching for their place amidst relationships, performance pressure, and self-love. The shared apartment of the athletic Marvin, self-doubting Hassan, and commitment-phobic Joshi seems like the perfect setup, but each character grapples with unique complexes, from mental health issues to body image concerns.
Instead of discussing their feelings, they resort to unorthodox methods: Viagra, drug trips, one-night stands, and dating coaches with brash pick-up lines. As you ponder, "Why talk about feelings when there's Viagra?", the series raises intriguing questions about masculinity and the societal pressure to adhere to certain stereotypes.
As for the direction the show takes, it presents a mixed bag. The title, the pink onesies, and the macho pick-up lines leave room for interpretation. Is it an ironic challenge to the prevalent notion that pink equals soft equals uncool, or does it reinforce the stereotype?
The series, composed of five 20-minute episodes, only skims the surface of the complex topic of masculinity, owing to time constraints. The characters don't evolve much, but the final episode offers a refreshing glimpse into their inner lives.
Origins of "Softies"
Created by the author-director duo, Jonathan Westphal, and Yves Guillaume from the Film University Babelsberg Konrad Wolf, "Softies" claims the top spot in last year's RTL+ "Storytellers" newcomer competition. This series emerged from an idea generated by a team of talented film students, offering a unique perspective on modern life's complexities.
A 2023 survey by the organization Plan International revealed that a majority of 18-35-year-olds in Germany feel weak and vulnerable when expressing their feelings. Half of the respondents admitted to exercising to build a muscular body to prove their "manliness"[1]. In this regard, "Softies" seems to resonate with Gen-Z's experiences and struggles, particularly within the realm of masculinity.
Yet, without further investigation, it's difficult to determine if "Softies" critiques or perpetuates traditional masculinity stereotypes. However, explorations of vulnerable and sensitive men, like those gaining traction on platforms such as TikTok[2], could be perceived as a critique or evolution of these stereotypes.
Media that challenges traditional masculinity often features characters with emotionally complex expressions and relationships, offering a critique of rigid gender roles. Conversely, reinforcing stereotypes could involve glorifying typical masculine traits like aggression or dominance without question[3]. Regardless, "Softies" is a engaging series that certainly stirs up thoughtful conversations around modern masculinity.
[1] https://www.plan-international.de/presse/de/news/2023/03/bewegt-junge-männer-sich-zu-gewalt?uti_medium=link&uti_source=partner[2] https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jul/05/soft-dominant-men-algorithm-appeal[3] https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/08/well/live/masculinity-t-series.html
- In the modern age, discussions about mental health, lifestyle, and health-and-wellness are increasingly important, especially in the context of the complexities faced by young men, as shown in the drama-comedy series "Softies."
- The series, set within the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, explores the challenges of expressing feelings and the societal pressure to conform to traditional masculinity stereotypes.
- As relationships become more intricate, understanding mental health becomes crucial, and the show offers a thought-provoking portrayal of the struggles young men face in this regard.
- The series, born from the minds of film students and winning the RTL+ "Storytellers" newcomer competition in 2021, is a reflection of the growing interest in challenging traditional masculinity stereotypes, as seen in contemporary media.
