Lisa McGee’s Creative Spark: From Derry Girls to Thrilling New Territory
Lisa McGee, the Irish writer and creator of the beloved comedy Derry Girls, is back with a new Netflix series, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast. The show marks a shift in genre, blending comedy with thriller elements, but retains McGee’s signature focus on sharply observed female friendships and relatable characters. McGee’s process, as revealed in recent interviews, is deeply rooted in real-life observation and a willingness to mine the humor in everyday arguments and experiences.
The Power of Observation: McGee’s Writing Process
McGee openly admits to being a “listener,” drawing inspiration from the dynamics within her own close-knit group of friends. She notes the comedic potential in their disagreements, often seeking permission (though not always successfully) to incorporate these moments into her writing. This approach highlights the value of authentic storytelling and the power of relatable characters. Her mother, she jokes, is well aware that any shared story is potential material.
From Sitcom to Suspense: A Genre Evolution
While Derry Girls was a tightly-packed sitcom, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast offers a different pace and structure. The eight-part Netflix series allows for a more expansive narrative, incorporating a central mystery and a broader tonal range. McGee cites influences ranging from Scooby-Doo to Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, demonstrating a willingness to experiment with genre conventions. The larger budget afforded by Netflix has also allowed for a more ambitious scope.
Female-Led Stories and the Rise of “Wish Fulfillment”
McGee’s perform consistently centers on female characters and their relationships. How to Get to Heaven from Belfast follows three women in their late 30s navigating life, loss, and the complexities of their shared past. McGee describes the new series as “wish fulfillment,” a desire to create a story where she and her friends could embark on an exciting adventure and solve a mystery. This reflects a broader trend in entertainment towards more diverse and female-driven narratives.
The popularity of true crime, particularly among women, also played a role in the show’s conception. McGee notes her own fascination with the genre, citing favorites like S-Town, Sweet Bobby, and West Cork. This aligns with the growing audience for true crime podcasts and documentaries, demonstrating a demand for stories that explore complex investigations and human psychology.
Balancing Comedy and Tension: A Delicate Act
Creating a successful comedy-thriller requires a delicate balance. McGee deliberately restrained the comedic elements in How to Get to Heaven from Belfast to allow space for the central mystery to unfold. This contrasts with the rapid-fire humor of Derry Girls, showcasing her versatility as a writer. She also acknowledges the necessitate to avoid overly dark themes, particularly as a mother, prioritizing escapism and positive emotional resonance for her audience.
The Future of Female-Driven Entertainment
McGee’s success with both Derry Girls and How to Get to Heaven from Belfast points to a promising future for female-led entertainment. Audiences are increasingly seeking stories that reflect their own experiences and perspectives, and writers like McGee are leading the charge. The willingness to blend genres and experiment with narrative structures further expands the possibilities for compelling and innovative storytelling.
Did you know?
Lisa McGee was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2022, recognizing her significant contribution to literature.
FAQ
- What is How to Get to Heaven from Belfast about? It follows three friends who reunite after the death of a fourth member of their group, uncovering secrets and embarking on a thrilling investigation.
- What inspired Lisa McGee to write this series? A visit to her old school and a reflection on the relationship between her past and present selves.
- Is this show similar to Derry Girls? It shares McGee’s signature humor and focus on female friendships, but is a darker, more suspenseful thriller.
Pro Tip: If you enjoyed Derry Girls, be sure to check out Lisa McGee’s other work, including the series Raw and London Irish.
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