Rachel Sennott is no stranger to the spotlight. Six years ago, her "It's L.A." video went viral, and now she's back with a brand new HBO comedy, I Love LA, debuting Sunday, Nov. 2 at 10:30 pm ET/PT on Crave in Canada. This series promises to dive deep into the heart of Los Angeles culture – from influencer parties to the city's trending coffee shops – and it is an absolute must-watch.
Sennott not only created this eight-episode wonder but stars as Maia, a young woman striving to climb the ranks at a talent management company. Her journey involves reconnecting with Tallulah, an influencer played by Odessa A'zion, which could be her ticket to a coveted promotion. The show captures the essence of being a 20-something in L.A., with its signature humor exploring the city's most notorious stereotypes.
“It shows the desperation and the dream-seeking side of it. ... It's satirical in ways, because it sort of judges it and laughs about it, but then it also has the heart of understanding these people are really going for something and trying to make something out of their lives," said co-star Josh Hutcherson.
The brilliance of I Love LA lies in its character-driven storytelling. Sennott draws from her own life experiences, infusing Maia with her "control freak tendencies" and Tallulah with her past "messy party girl era." The show takes inspiration from iconic series like Girls and Entourage, promising well-crafted, memorable characters.
Actor Josh Hutcherson emphasizes the depth of the characters, highlighting how they start as stereotypes but evolve into complex figures as the series progresses. The chemistry between A'zion and Sennott is electric, with A'zion delivering a standout performance as the unpredictable Tallulah. Her wardrobe choices alone – tight, daring, and reflective of her chaotic energy – add layers to her portrayal.
The cast is rounded out by Josh Hutcherson as Maia's boyfriend, Leighton Meester as Maia's boss Alyssa, and True Whitaker as their optimistic friend Alani. Jordan Firstman portrays Charlie, a stylist hustling to make it big. Firstman, known for his online comedic content, relishes the opportunity to bring depth to Charlie.
Leighton Meester showcases her comedic chops, especially in a dinner scene that spirals into chaos. The show explores Alyssa's ruthless exterior while hinting at her underlying motivations, adding depth to her character.
In a breakthrough moment, Sennott directs the season finale, an episode she describes as both daunting and exhilarating. Her directorial debut adds another layer to her comedic voice, establishing her as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry.