Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
English Teacher is about the trials and tribulations of a gay English teacher, Evan (Brian Jordan Alvarez), and the zany characters surrounding him at a public high school in Texas. While each episode is self-contained, several side stories carry throughout the season.
The main cast includes Gwen (Stephanie Koenig), Evan’s best friend and fellow teacher; Markie (Sean Patton), the gym teacher who has a deep understanding of the social constructs of the students and is romantically interested in Gwen; Rick (Carmen Christopher), the school counselor who has numerous side hustles; and principal Moretti (Enrico Colantoni), whose main struggle is keeping order in the school.
There’s also a host of recurring characters who come and go as needed. These include the students, some parents, and Evan’s ex-boyfriend, Malcolm (Jordan Firstman), who he occasionally has sex with.
Some Thoughts:
English Teacher isn’t afraid to take risks while poking fun at society. And everybody, from the students to the teachers, are in on the game. The humor is similar to Alvarez’s web series, The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo, but not quite as outrageous.
The characters and subject matter push the boundaries for television while still being safe. Because of that, it loses some of the edge that The Gay and Wonderous Life of Caleb Gallo has. However, it also allows the show to appeal to a much larger audience. It’s similar to shows like All in the Family, Maude, and Will & Grace.
The comedy and acting are spot on, and the cast work well together. Koenig and Alvarez play characters similar to the ones they portrayed in The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo, which makes it feel like an extension of that show. Of the core characters, Colantoni shines as the principle. He brings life and humor to a man who is fed up with his job and trying to hold it together the best he can.
Of the recurring characters, Malcolm is used the most. This is most likely because he’s Evan’s ex-boyfriend. He’s also the love interest, which is refreshing because he isn’t toned or hairless, which makes him much more relatable.
The Final Verdict:
English Teacher is a smart comedy that deals with social issues in a public school in Texas. If you like outrageous fun, this series is for you.
