The opening scene of “Glamorous” sets the tone perfectly: Marco Mejia, a makeup-obsessed young influencer, films himself in his bedroom, testing new products with an enthusiasm that’s as infectious as it is relatable. The camera lingers on his face, capturing the genuine excitement in his eyes as he applies lipstick and shares his thoughts with his online audience. This moment encapsulates the series’ heart—a blend of aspiration and authenticity that makes it stand out in the crowded landscape of coming-of-age dramas.

Created by Jordon Nardino and starring Kim Cattrall as the formidable beauty mogul Madolyn Addison, “Glamorous” follows Marco (Miss Benny) as he lands a dream job working for Glamorous by Madolyn. The series, which aired on Netflix in June 2023, is a ten-episode journey of self-discovery, professional chaos, and romantic entanglements. Unfortunately, it was canceled after one season, leaving its narrative threads unresolved.

“Glamorous” nails the brief: a winning and earnest coming-of-age story furnished with silly gags that speak to its specific demographic. The series excels in its portrayal of Marco’s journey as a gender-nonconforming queer man navigating the complexities of identity, career, and love. Miss Benny’s performance is a standout, bringing a mix of vulnerability and charisma that grounds the series. His portrayal of Marco is nuanced and relatable, making it easy to root for him as he faces various challenges.

Kim Cattrall delivers a performance that is both glamorous and grounded, adding depth to Madolyn Addison, who evolves from a stern boss to a more nuanced character. Cattrall’s portrayal of Madolyn is a highlight, showcasing her range as an actress. The chemistry between Cattrall and Miss Benny is palpable, making their interactions a joy to watch.

The supporting cast also shines, particularly Jade Payton as Venetia, Madolyn’s ambitious first assistant, and Ayesha Harris as Britt, whose romantic subplot with Venetia adds an extra layer of complexity. The chemistry between the characters feels authentic, making their interactions a joy to watch. Michael Hsu Rosen as Ben, a graphic designer for Glamorous by Madolyn who shows interest in Marco from their first meeting, and Graham Parkhurst as Parker, an overconfident “finance bro” and a love interest for Marco, also deliver memorable performances.

However, “Glamorous” is not without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with some episodes feeling rushed while others linger too long on less engaging plot points. The series also struggles to maintain a consistent tone, sometimes veering too close to melodrama without the weight to pull it off. For instance, the romantic subplot between Marco and Parker feels underdeveloped, lacking the depth and nuance of other relationships in the series.

The production values are generally high, with vibrant visuals that capture the glamour of the beauty industry. The soundtrack is another highlight, featuring upbeat tracks that complement the series’ energetic tone. However, some of the comedic moments feel forced, and the silly gags that critics noted can sometimes undercut the more serious themes.

Comparisons to other coming-of-age dramas are inevitable, but “Glamorous” carves out its own niche with its focus on the beauty industry and the unique challenges faced by Marco as a gender-nonconforming queer man. The series stands out for its authentic portrayal of these experiences, making it a refreshing addition to the genre.

“Glamorous” is aimed at a younger audience, particularly those who are interested in makeup, fashion, and the beauty industry. It also appeals to viewers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a focus on identity and self-discovery. The series is a must-watch for fans of Kim Cattrall and Miss Benny, as well as those who appreciate diverse and inclusive storytelling.

In the end, “Glamorous” is a series that aims high and mostly succeeds, thanks to its compelling performances and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a shame that it was canceled after one season, as there was still much more to explore in Marco’s journey.