‘Everything’s Trash’ Recap: ‘Choosing Between Peen & Politics Is Trash’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Everything’s Trash’.
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We are taught from a very early age, to be ourselves at all times. Because life is short and conforming to norms can be boring. So just be you and embrace every aspect of what makes you special and we do our best to do that… until we come to learn that there are nuances to that lesson. In that, being ourselves doesn’t always vibe with other people and that can bring about unexpected and uncomfortable conflict and sometimes… being ourselves can cause others trouble. Because the irony of this lesson is that it prompts everyone to walk unique paths and that can bring about some serious clashes, especially when our dynamic personality collides with the polarizing one of someone we deeply care about.

Which in turn teaches us some other valuable lessons. The kind that revolves around learning how and when to be who we are, and when to blend in and go with the flow to keep life running smooth and keep feelings from being hurt. A move that is no easy task when we understand who we are and what we are about and are comfortable in our own skin. If anything, this particular struggle is top of mind today, simply because it is explored in great detail in the series premiere of the new Freeform series, Everything’s Trash. A feat that ‘Choosing Between Peen & Politics Is Trash’ accomplished by plunging us into the midst of this kind of conflict.

For in this premiere, we are introduced to a podcaster named Phoebe Hill, who just so happens to be quite comfortable in her own skin. Because she knows what she wants out of life and she wants to enjoy every single second of it, and that means being herself whenever possible and indulging in what makes her happy. Which on occasion, involves a night of passion with whomever catches her eye. An act that often helps to keep her audience engaged, since she's happy to share those stories. But her brother Jayden’s decision to run for public office in their hometown, puts Phoebe at a crossroads. Since politics and being oneself don’t exactly mix, a reality that will indeed force Phoebe to find that balance.

Which in turn, leads to a fascinating premiere. One that is both raw and honest about what modern dating and modern women are like in the real world. Since Phoebe embraces her sexual needs and has no qualms with expressing them with the world and of course, embraces the mantra of being true to oneself and it is just wonderful to see an honest character like this, on the small screen. One that is progressive, and part of a diverse cast and the wonder of this story doesn’t end with its casting and characterization. Because the conflict she experiences here, is supremely real world. Since there is a divide in America where a woman being herself is both looked down upon and celebrated and where some still struggle with sexual honesty and the freedom that women have regarding their sexuality.

But this is how the real world looks and this show really deserves a round of applause for presenting people in the raw and for pointing out that we still sadly live in a world where we have to find balance over fully being who we wish to be because of prejudice and taboo-based judgment. Which means that this is going to be a season of storytelling that not only shines a spotlight on real life, but truly explores the difficulties of navigating the two worlds that some folks have to reside within, in a comedic manner of course. For there is a lot of comedy to be found here, the kind that is sold by Phoebe Robinson’s performance as… Phoebe Hill. Which makes this slice of life tale, quite enjoyable, and it will be fascinating to see where this refreshing and dynamic story is going to take us… in the weeks to come. Until next time.

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