Whistling in the Dark

There’s something about Jessica St Clair and Lennon Parham. Ever since discovering their awesome but sadly, short-lived, 2012 NBC sitcom - Best Friends Forever - this bonafide comedy nerd has been hooked on their unique, and oddly soulful brand of comedy which can currently be seen on their most recent creation - USA’s critical darling Playing House.   Both ventures dip their toes into similar thematic territory - namely the nuances and complexities of the female friendship. Not surprising given the duo are real life besties. But that’s where the similarities end, and the two sitcoms veer off in vastly different directions. BFF is more grounded and subtle while Playing House isn’t afraid to go big by offering an abundance of physical comedy, and broader, dare I say more absurdist sensibilities. Magically, both shows work - largely due to the writing and performances of its creators/stars but also because they manage to tackle big themes and meaty subject matter without hitting their audience over the head wit