After years of memorable supporting turns in the likes of “Unbelievable,” “Camping,” and “Patti Cake$,” Bridget Everett is finally leading her own show. She stars in and executive produces “Somebody Somewhere,” a semi-autobiographical dramedy about the importance of carving out space for passion amid the frustrations of everyday life.
From creators Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen, “Somebody Somewhere” follows the 40-something Sam (Everett), who works as a standardized test grader in her quiet Kansas hometown. She is mourning the death of her sister, Molly, dealing with loneliness, and trying to keep what’s left of her family — judgmental sister Tricia (Mary Catherine Garrison), alcoholic mother Mary Jo (Jane Brody), and emotionally and financially overwhelmed father Ed (Mike Hagerty) — semi-together. It’s not going particularly well. When we first meet Sam, she’s pretty depressed.
But things start looking up when she befriends Joel (Jeff Hiller), a kind co-worker and former classmate. He remembers the Sam he knew in high school: fun, outgoing, the star of show choir and the swim team. Joel invites Sam to an underground cabaret he secretly hosts at his church. Comprised mostly of LGBTQ townies and other folks who feel like they don’t quite fit in, “choir” provides Sam a much-needed emotional outlet. Before she knows it, she’s giving powerhouse performances, making new friends, and feeling more confident. It’s amazing what a difference a little connection and creativity can make.
Between her real-life cabaret act and her previous roles, Everett is best known for going big and brash. In “Somebody Somewhere,” she pulls back to great effect, delivering a nuanced, poignant performance. As her character blossoms on-screen, Everett proves herself to be a gifted actress just as capable of moving her audience to tears as to laughter.
“Somebody Somewhere” premieres Sunday, January 16, on HBO and HBO Max.
