Amid all the iconic coming-of-age teen television shows from the 1990s and early 2000s like “Degrassi” or “Dawson’s Creek,” there is another show that has seemed to fall into a bit of obscurity.
“Freaks and Geeks” was a show that aired for only one season from 1999 to 2000. While you may think of it as any other coming-of-age television show, it is actually very unique and more realistic than most teen-centered shows at that time.
As the title suggests, the show is not focused on conventionally attractive teens that are usually found in this genre of shows. Instead, it’s focused on the outsiders. The weird kids who are the “freaks,” and the dorky kids who are the “geeks.”
“Freaks and Geeks” is the perfect time capsule of that time period. The style of the show is reminiscent of something that you may feel nostalgic for, even if you were never around to experience it for yourself.
The show was produced by Judd Apatow, who is best known for writing many iconic comedy movies like “Superbad.” Not many people know that the show has featured many well-known actors, including Seth Rogen, James Franco, Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini and Busy Phillips.
“Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts is the opening credit to each episode, with the characters taking their school pictures awkwardly before showing their pictures in the yearbook. A simple, yet normal experience for everyone in high school.
The story follows Lindsay (Cardellini) and Sam Weir (John Francis Daley), two siblings who are attending high school in the 1980s. Lindsay associates herself with the freaks while Sam finds himself grouped with the geeks.
The characters come off as not being your typical teenagers. One group enjoys partying and rock and roll, while the other indulges in their nerdy hobbies and are a bit more socially awkward. Where’s the fun in watching that?
Even though they might get called the freaks and geeks, they’re just like anyone else, and don’t allow those titles to define them. They struggle with growing up, making decisions and dealing with things in their personal lives at a time when things may be confusing or troubling.
Unfortunately, the show was canceled by NBC before the first season’s ending, but it’s one of the best single season shows that deserved better.
It’s also why, despite its age, it doesn’t need a reboot. It’s a relic of the past that should remain untouched because it’s perfect the way it is. For new and returning viewers of the show, it’s timeless and a nostalgic reminder of growing up.
Even 25 years later, it’s one of the most underrated coming-of-age shows, and despite having developed a cult following in recent years, many people have yet to discover the hidden gem that is “Freaks and Geeks.”
If you haven’t considered the freaks and the geeks, now is the time to check them out. It can be funny, heartbreaking, relatable and a reminder of just how stupid high school really was in every episode.
