Five Reasons Julie and the Phantoms is the Best New Thing on Netflix
By Jordan Crayton
Photo by Charles Deluvio on Unsplash
If you have opened up Netflix in the past couple of months, then you have probably seen or scrolled by a show entitled Julie and the Phantoms. At first glance, the TV show looks like a tween drama. Don’t get me wrong, it very much is, but it is also way more than that. When I first saw the purple show-cover, I too was skeptical. But months later, I am obsessed with the impressive Netflix Original and have already rewatched it 3 times. I would go as far as saying that it is currently the best thing on Netflix - sorry Bridgerton - and here are 5 reasons why:
The Plot
The plot of Julie and the Phantoms is very fresh and gives new life to the unfinished business-ghost trope we have seen over the years. Without giving too much away, the show revolves around teenager Julie Molina (played by 16-year-old actress newbie, and powerhouse Madison Reyes) who accidentally summons a 25-years deceased band of boys and their journey in the modern-day. They end up deciding to join forces and create a band that will serve both of their interests. The show does feature some romance, but the story mostly revolves around the band. Even though it can be cheesy at times, which is to be expected with it’s tween target demographic, it is genuinely a joy to watch the characters go through the tumultuous experiences of growing up (or not, since half the main cast is dead) and fighting off the problems they encounter, both physical and emotional. Plus, the show has so many quotable lines (see: “Get woke, these are sensitive times” and “What’s she handing out?” “Desperation”)
Representation
There are so many things I love about the characters of JATP, but the main thing is the representation. There’s a character for every watcher, and they all hold different human qualities that you don’t always see in TV characters. The titular character Julie is a Latina lead who deals with grief and trying to find happiness and meaning in a world without her mother, with the help of her no-nonsense best friend Flynn (Jada Marie). In my opinion, this makes the cutest friendship on TV. The boys all hold different layers. Luke (Charlie Gillespie) is the charming and suave leader on the surface level, but is also dealing with a loss of his own, and coming to terms with his death and strained-relationship with his parents. Alex (Owen Joyner) is the cynical and sensitive drummer who is openly gay, skips past the coming out story, and goes right into a queer relationship of his own. The last member of the band, Reggie (played by Jeremy Shada) is admittedly not seen much, but he is the optimistic, comedic fodder, trying to make the best of his ‘resurrection’. What makes this story very refreshing is that none of the boys are afraid of showing their emotions, something you don’t see much in television, even in 2021. The characters of Julie and the Phantoms really manage to make everyone feel seen.
The Songs
Without a doubt, the songs are my absolute favourite part of the show. The music is incredible and there are no skips on the soundtrack. There is something for every mood and occasion. Every episode has a new song, and they’re all pretty different from each other since they’re sung by different characters. The song from Sunset Curve is a 5 Seconds of Summer-inspired pop rock tune guaranteed to make you head bang. The titular Julie and the Phantoms songs are filled with power vocals and notes from Madison Reyes’ inspiring lyrics. Rival band Dirti Candi is K-Pop-inspired bubblegum girl group vibes, and villain Caleb (Cheyenne Jackson) pulls out musical theater tunes. There’s something for everyone, but my favorites, ‘Finally Free’ and ‘Wake Up,’ are definitely highlights.
The Nostalgia
JATP feels like such a throwback to old Disney Channel, which makes sense since the legend Kenny Ortega directs the show. The comedy style is very reminiscent of iconic sitcoms like The Wizards of Waverly Place, with the theatrics of High School Musical. Even though it tackles some heavy topics, the show’s overall sunny disposition and inspiring lilt make it such a good escape from reality. If you ever feel yourself longing for childhood vibes, but want something fresh, this is a good start.
The Community
Last, but not least, is the fandom, fondly called the Fantom. JATP has surprised the world by bringing in a largely adult audience who have spread onto Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. The drama is pretty much nonexistent, besides debating over which songs are the best. The cast is very involved in the community and interacts with the Fantoms, as well as making their own JATP centered content. It feels like a little family.
Closing
Julie and the Phantoms is one of the most exciting Netflix Originals to grace the small screen this past year. It really is a step forward in children’s entertainment, and when it is (hopefully) renewed for a season 2, I propose it’ll get even better.