The Family Law Season 3 Review
As Jenny dives headfirst into the giddy world of new romance, a mildly terrified Benjamin delves into the heady world of booze-drenched teen parties and unwanted sexual attraction, before finally facing up to some hard truths about himself and his sexuality.
This season proves to be just as hilarious as the first. What I have always loved about The Family Law is that it is full of raw emotion. It is a realistic representation of Asian-Australian childhood, based on the book by Benjamin Law about his own life, and this season goes once step further by also becoming a coming out story.
The Family Law doesn’t shy away from the struggles that the Laws experience, from racism to divorce. At the same time it is also a genuinely funny and moving comedy about growing up and all of the associated emotions and experiences, good and bad. In season 3, Ben comes to terms with his sexuality, as new feelings arise, thanks to neighbour and classmate, Klaus. Ben’s coming out is awash with embarrassment and all kinds of hurdles, but at the end of the day, he is well and truly supported by those he loves.
This season works so well because the angst that Ben feels, due to his newly discovered sexuality, is paired with true comedic timing on the part of actor Trystan Go. This allows for an alleviation of tension at critical moments. It’s important to note that Ben’s coming out is not a tragedy; it is accompanied by a rollercoaster of emotions, but significantly this season is a celebration of Ben’s true self. Ben’s self discovery is captured brilliantly across 6 episodes, as he journeys from a complete lack of self awareness, to confusion, to denial, and finally to acceptance. Perhaps most importantly of all, The Family Law ends on a truly positive, celebratory note.
