Work in Progress (2019)

The story begins with Abby, a 45-year-old queer woman living in Chicago, who is struggling with her mental health and self-acceptance. She is deeply affected by the recent breakup with her long-term girlfriend, and her emotional state is fragile. Abby's life is depicted through a series of vignettes that showcase her daily struggles, including her job at a local theater and her interactions with friends and family. She often feels isolated and disconnected from the world around her.

Abby attends therapy sessions, where she discusses her feelings of inadequacy and her struggles with body image. Her therapist encourages her to confront her fears and insecurities, which leads Abby to reflect on her past relationships and her current state of mind. During these sessions, Abby reveals her desire for connection and love, but she is also plagued by self-doubt and anxiety.

One day, while at a bar, Abby meets a younger woman named Chris. Chris is confident and charismatic, and she quickly becomes a source of intrigue for Abby. They share a flirtatious conversation, and Abby feels a spark of attraction that she hasn't felt in a long time. This encounter reignites Abby's hope for romance, but she is also apprehensive about opening herself up to someone new.

As Abby and Chris begin to date, Abby grapples with her feelings of vulnerability. She is excited about the relationship but also fears being hurt again. Their dates are filled with moments of joy and laughter, but Abby's insecurities often bubble to the surface. She struggles to reconcile her past experiences with her present feelings, leading to moments of tension between them.

Throughout their relationship, Abby's mental health continues to be a focal point. She experiences episodes of anxiety and depression, which affect her interactions with Chris. Abby's friends express concern about her well-being, and they encourage her to prioritize her mental health. Despite their support, Abby often feels overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate her emotions.

As the relationship progresses, Abby and Chris face challenges that test their connection. Abby's insecurities lead her to push Chris away at times, fearing that she is not worthy of love. Chris, on the other hand, is patient and understanding, but she also has her own struggles that she must confront. The dynamic between them becomes increasingly complex as they both try to balance their individual issues with their growing feelings for each other.

A pivotal moment occurs when Abby's mental health takes a turn for the worse. She experiences a significant breakdown, which forces her to confront her deepest fears and insecurities. This moment of crisis serves as a wake-up call for Abby, prompting her to seek help and reevaluate her relationship with Chris. She realizes that she must prioritize her own well-being before she can fully commit to someone else.

In the aftermath of her breakdown, Abby begins to take steps toward healing. She engages more actively in therapy and starts to implement coping strategies to manage her anxiety. This journey of self-discovery allows Abby to gain a better understanding of herself and her needs. She learns to communicate more openly with Chris about her struggles, which strengthens their bond.

As Abby continues to grow, she and Chris navigate the ups and downs of their relationship. They share moments of intimacy and vulnerability, but also face misunderstandings and conflicts. Abby's journey toward self-acceptance becomes intertwined with her relationship with Chris, as they both learn to support each other through their respective challenges.

The climax of the story occurs when Abby must confront a significant decision regarding her future with Chris. After a particularly intense argument, Abby realizes that she cannot continue to rely on Chris for validation and happiness. This moment of clarity leads her to make a bold choice: she decides to take a break from the relationship to focus on her own healing.

In the final scenes, Abby reflects on her journey and the progress she has made. She acknowledges the importance of self-love and acceptance, and she understands that her worth is not defined by her relationships. The series concludes with Abby embracing her individuality and looking forward to the future with a renewed sense of hope and strength.

In the ending of "Work in Progress," Abby confronts her feelings about her relationship with Chris and her own self-worth. The season culminates in a moment of clarity for Abby as she navigates her emotional turmoil and the complexities of her identity. The final scenes depict her making a significant decision about her future, leading to a poignant conclusion that emphasizes themes of self-acceptance and personal growth.

As the final episode unfolds, we find Abby in a state of emotional upheaval. The scene opens with her sitting alone in her apartment, surrounded by remnants of her past relationships and the weight of her insecurities. The camera captures her expression, a mix of vulnerability and determination, as she reflects on her journey thus far. The room is dimly lit, symbolizing the uncertainty she feels about her future.

In the next scene, Abby meets with Chris, her love interest, in a local café. The atmosphere is tense, filled with unspoken words and unresolved feelings. Chris, who has been a source of both comfort and confusion for Abby, appears anxious. He tries to reassure her, but Abby's internal struggle is palpable. She grapples with her feelings of inadequacy and the fear of being hurt again. The dialogue is raw and honest, revealing the depth of their connection and the barriers that have formed between them.

As the conversation progresses, Abby begins to articulate her fears and desires. She speaks about her journey of self-discovery and the importance of loving herself before she can fully engage in a relationship. Chris listens intently, his expression shifting from concern to understanding. This moment marks a turning point for Abby, as she realizes that she must prioritize her own well-being.

The scene transitions to Abby attending a support group meeting, where she shares her experiences with others who have faced similar struggles. The room is filled with a sense of camaraderie and acceptance, and Abby's vulnerability resonates with the group. She speaks about her journey, her battles with depression, and the importance of self-acceptance. The supportive environment allows her to feel empowered, and she begins to embrace her identity more fully.

In the climax of the episode, Abby makes a bold decision. She chooses to end her relationship with Chris, recognizing that she needs to focus on herself and her own healing. The scene is emotionally charged, with Abby expressing her gratitude for Chris while also acknowledging that they are not meant to be together at this time. Chris, though heartbroken, respects her decision, and the two share a bittersweet farewell. The camera lingers on Abby's face, capturing a mix of sadness and relief as she steps into a new chapter of her life.

The final moments of the episode show Abby walking through the city, a sense of newfound freedom in her stride. The sun begins to set, casting a warm glow around her, symbolizing hope and the promise of a brighter future. As she walks, Abby reflects on her journey, the struggles she has faced, and the strength she has found within herself. The scene fades out, leaving viewers with a sense of closure and the understanding that Abby is on a path toward self-acceptance and growth.

In summary, the ending of "Work in Progress" encapsulates Abby's journey of self-discovery, her decision to prioritize her mental health, and her acceptance of her identity. Chris, while still a significant part of her life, is left behind as Abby chooses to focus on her own healing. The episode concludes with a sense of hope and the promise of new beginnings for Abby as she embraces her individuality.

In the TV show "Work in Progress," there is no post-credit scene. The series, which follows the life of Abby, a queer woman struggling with her identity and mental health, focuses on her journey of self-discovery and the relationships she navigates. Each episode concludes with a sense of resolution or cliffhanger related to Abby's experiences, but they do not include additional scenes after the credits. The storytelling is concentrated on the main narrative and character development throughout the episodes.

Abby's relationship with her therapist, played by the character of 'Dr. K', is central to her journey of self-discovery and healing. Initially, Abby approaches therapy with skepticism, often using humor to deflect her deeper issues. As the series progresses, their sessions reveal Abby's struggles with her identity, body image, and mental health. The evolution of this relationship showcases Abby's growing vulnerability and willingness to confront her past traumas, ultimately leading to moments of clarity and empowerment.

Abby's relationship with Chris, a younger trans man, serves as a catalyst for her personal growth. Initially, Abby is drawn to Chris's confidence and authenticity, which contrasts with her own insecurities. As they navigate their relationship, Abby grapples with feelings of jealousy, inadequacy, and the fear of being left behind. Their dynamic challenges Abby to confront her own fears about love and acceptance, pushing her to embrace her true self and redefine her understanding of intimacy.

Abby's family, particularly her mother, plays a significant role in her emotional struggles. The series delves into Abby's complicated relationship with her mother, who embodies traditional values that clash with Abby's identity and lifestyle. Flashbacks reveal the impact of her mother's expectations and criticisms on Abby's self-esteem. This familial tension serves as a backdrop for Abby's journey, highlighting her desire for acceptance while also illustrating the pain of feeling misunderstood by those closest to her.

Body image is a recurring theme in Abby's character arc, deeply intertwined with her self-worth and mental health. Throughout the series, Abby's struggles with her appearance are depicted through her interactions with others and her internal monologues. She often battles negative self-talk and societal pressures, which are exacerbated by her experiences in the dating world. As the series progresses, Abby begins to challenge these perceptions, learning to appreciate her body and embrace her uniqueness, culminating in moments of self-acceptance.

Key moments that lead to Abby's realization of her own worth include her candid conversations with Chris, where she learns to express her insecurities and desires openly. Another pivotal moment occurs during a confrontation with her mother, where Abby asserts her identity and demands respect. Additionally, her therapy sessions with Dr. K provide crucial insights, allowing Abby to unpack her past and recognize the patterns that have held her back. These moments collectively contribute to Abby's journey towards self-acceptance and empowerment.

"Work in Progress" is a show that deals with mature themes and contains content that may not be suitable for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects:

1. Mental Health Struggles: The protagonist, Abby, grapples with depression and suicidal thoughts, which are depicted in a raw and honest manner. This could be distressing for viewers who are sensitive to mental health issues.

2. Sexual Content: The show includes scenes that explore sexuality and relationships, which may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

3. Language: There is frequent use of strong language throughout the series, which may be considered offensive or inappropriate for children.

4. Body Image Issues: The show addresses themes of body positivity and self-acceptance, but it also portrays struggles with body image that could be triggering for some viewers.

5. Family Dynamics: There are complex family relationships and conflicts that may resonate with some viewers but could be upsetting for others, particularly those with similar experiences.

6. Emotional Turmoil: The characters experience significant emotional pain and conflict, which may be heavy for younger viewers or those who are sensitive to such themes.

Overall, "Work in Progress" is best suited for mature audiences who can engage with its themes thoughtfully.