I've been watching the Facts of Life on netflix and I'm on about the third season. I loved this show as a kid, but I've noticed something as an adult. First of all, all of the main characters are women, and that is amazing. That is pretty unusual in itself, and considering that the first season aired in 1979. The show also talks about social issues. They've covered alcohol, drugs, eating disorders, rape, race, and disability; to name only a few. It's still a comedy, and there is only so much depth you can get in a half hour, but it's not all about boys and sex. This show passes the Beckdale test. The characters are stereotypical, and some of the answers to issues are pretty dated, but I think those are minor criticisms. If you get the chance, give it a watch.
* Here is how the test works: watch a movie, any movie, or even a particular episode of a television series, and then see if it fits the following criteria:
1) There are at least two female characters that are credited with actual names so it does not count if they are called “female officer 1” or “girl at diner”.
2) Any two named female characters must then at some point in the film have a conversation with each other.
3) This conversation must last at least 45 seconds…
4) …and it must be on any topic other than boys, men, or males in general.
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