Mad for Mad Men

Sexism has never been so chic

You can only imagine my horror last Christmas upon unwrapping the 'WILDCARD' gift from my mum and finding True Blood. Trying desperately to stifly my disdain, I mustered a forced smile and said, "Cheers Irene, vampire porn? You know me so well."

But alas, this did not deter the bold Renee! This year, as I cautiously unravelled what was blatantly a boxset, internally fighting the pangs of last years disappointment in attempts to convey a more appreciative demeanour, I was taken a-back by her choice. Two words: MAD MEN.

Brilliant.

I'd been intrigued by the series for some time now, but like many, unless given the boxset in some entirety (ie. the first three seasons in one slick package) I just never found the time. That is until now. I'm currently in the throes of what can only be described as addiction.

The Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning drama set in the 1960s New York advertising industry is witty, fast-paced and enthralling. Everything from the sexist, ego-driven businessmen and tragic Stepford-esque housewives to the decadent fashion invites me in.

Having inexplicably managed to watch the first 2 seasons in little over a week (during the festive party season no less) I look forward to stifling the unavoidable January blues with more of the same, whilst scanning the Sunday Times Style suppliment for advice on how to become a Joan or a Betty and starting my 'Don Draper for president' campaign.

5 Reasons to become a MADdict

1. The wit - Hilariously dry, mocking and satirical of an era shrowded in pathos and sexism it's hard to form a solid opinion on anyone as they all wrestle against changing ideologies in a drastically changing time. Ohhhh the inner turmoil. Love it.
2. The tragedy - Adultery, alcoholism, racism, homophobia, sexism...the list is endless. Cannot.get.enough.
3. The fashion - Winning gongs and acclaim in its own right, the fashion of Mad Men has become an empire unto itself. From vintage to bohemian, this era is brought colourfully and vividly to life through costume and it continues to inspire legions of fashionistas. Long live the Bettys!
4. Don Draper - The man, the myth, the enigma. Jon Hamm depicts the shows protagonist with such suave charisma that the audience are forced to forgive his short-comings (infidelity, heavy drinking etc) in favour of his charm and mystique. The mystery of Draper is alluded to early on in season 1 when a colleague remarks, "Draper? Who knows anything about that guy? He could be Batman for all we know." And you know what, he absolutely could.
5. Joan Holloway - Christina Hendricks is the real-life Jessica Rabbit, a fiery femme-fatale that contradicts and complies to the stereotypes of her day. Fabulously fierce.