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I'm familiar with several ex-pats in Paris - via IG and TH-cam. I think they perpetuate the myth of Paris Perfection every bit as much as EIP does. Jay, you are just about the only one I know that has truly shared the difficulty of living there, in perfect measure, with the amazing opportunity it has been for you.
We watched Emily primarily to see Paris as a backdrop for the show. As Jay said, it was about as real to actual life in Paris as Friends was to life in NYC. The expat issue aside, we enjoyed “Call My Agent!” far more as a television show depicting Parisian life.
@@JaySwanson CMA is one of my favorites! It's like "Extras" in Paris. But there's the difference, right? Life in Paris as written, directed and produced by the French versus the same thing, as created by the "Sex and the City" guy. 😂
We watch SATC from another continent. We enjoy it. Because we are not idiots! We know its not a Documentary. But a character like Samantha Jones may actually exist, after all its not a Soap Opera or a Sitcom. But its still a comedy. Emily In Paris could have been another SATC. But they gave us something ORIGINAL! This has elements of The Devil Wears Prada, SATC, and even GLEE. But its Fresh and Unique. This is coming from someone who cant stand 45 seconds of BRIDGERTON or Gossip Girl.
I did watch season 1, but only like 3 months ago. I do agree with the Friends reference. What bothered me the most was Emily’s attitude of not willing to learn the culture/language of the country she is living in. I know she didn’t have a lot of pre move time to learn French, bit to me it was more than just a lack of willing to learn a language. It’s the “I’m American so I can go anywhere and people to do things they way I want” attitude that I cannot stand.
That’s so on point! And this is what irritates me when I see American expats in Paris. I also come from another culture and my French is not good at all either. But I try and I do try to understand the culture and accept the fact that my way may not be the right way in this society. But when I see my American expat friend, I still find that she thinks her American way is the best and it’s the French/Parisians who are doing wrong to her.
@beastbombshell3589Do you truly believe people who come to the USA and can’t speak English fully participate/benefit from American society either economically, socially, spiritually and healthwise? You are sorely mistaken. Many non English speakers sadly live on the fringes of society in the USA. And none are white collar workers. Here’s a big secret…IF they had the resources, time, money and support to magically learn English most of them would jump at the chance. That’s the big difference.
Emily in Paris was meant to be an international version of Sex and The City, nobody should take it serioulsy since its a feel-good show that was made just to highlight the city and thrive on the fantasy elements of visiting abroad. The show stays true to itself by being as superficial as they come but thats why viewers can't get enough and tune in. Simply put, nobody wants to see the pee-stained streets and refugee camps of paris, they want to see the luxury homes - bistros - restaurants - models - high fashion - night clubs etc.
But then if u rewatch satc or gossip girls for that matter, some of the elements are really outdated and cringe in today's society. I mean it's ok to have fantasy but its not ok to label it realistic and feelgood story should feel good and not feel shit.
you could make such a show without using gay people as props, being weirdly racist against asians and being weirdly racist against eastern europeans. There is just... no reason for that. you could say its comedy but then I just point to minstrel shows... and you know... for the comedy defence to work, you should be funny.
Emily is also young, white, pretty and super ready to mingle. Life tends to be a lot easier for people like her. (btw, I feel the background music is too distracting, especially at the start)
Well, too late for that 😆 but hopefully it doesn't ruin the whole thing. And yeah, being pretty makes for some inroads jokers like me miss on the regular
It doesn't work in Western Europe, in general. Except for a very limited type of jobs. Being white or pretty have no consequences. 1 / Number and level of diplomas 2 / University / school fame 3 / Experience. And most important is your ability to step on your colleagues. Those who work hard are locked in their work. Those who spend more time to bootlick and step on their colleagues are promoted more easily. That's how it works most of the time. Fortunately, there are fair working environments too.
I have been traveling to Paris for 20 years, so I have an idea of how it is. I loved the show. Sex In The City wasn't real either. It is entertainment. Some people took it so seriously. It is not a documentary.
Sex and The City had good dialogue and interesting storylines to make up for it though. Emily in Paris was just dull, and they just spoon feed you everything.
Not American, not French/Parisian but I met an American in Paris (at the metro) rolling her eyes and complaining about the French schedules (metro driver’s taking a break)… she was entitled, bratty and wearing sweats. 🤣 I am 100% ok with escapism and roll my eyes at the show but love it! Things don’t need to be so serious all the time.
I don't believe your story. Most Americans are used to the most crappy public transport on Earth. I live next to two metro stops and if the train is 20 minutes late, it's on time.
This is such an important conversation to bring up, especially for people who have this desire to live and work at a foreign country. I've lived in France and the Philippines(now back in the US) and the amount of stress, problems you come across, and frustrations while living abroad is such a part of day to day life and people often omit these issues in their overall travel narrative. I mean I know people want to focus on all the positives(just look at social media) because like as mentioned, it's a form of escapism. But the problems of living in a forein country, like the frustration of not being able to fully communicate with the locals, and people seeing you as stupid, a waste of their time, or someone they can take advantage of, is soul crushing at times. Going through bureaucratic mess and endless paperwork and fees, experiencing crime, racism, discrimination, or just being lost and confused on even the smallest things(like doing groceries, going to the bank, or even dining out), and just trying to function and survive in your new environment, are all of the process of living in a foreign country. It's not an amusement park or some fantastical place. It has its ups and downs, it's beautiful parts, and it's ugly ones, but that's just life in general and it's the case, especially living in a living, breathing, modern metropolis like Paris. Your experience in the new country you live in is definitely what you make out of it. You really come back as a changed person, someone who sees the world in a broad sense, and you really see and appreciate life in a different(positively) way.
It's an entertainment show. Why are people taking it so serious? This is like doing a review on most Hollywood movies...they are fantasies and are meant to entertain not guide you through life🙄
I think my brother's take on his first trip to Paris sums it up well. He said, from ten feet and above, Paris is beautiful! It's the stereotype we all see and hope for. But! Below ten feet up is the actual Paris. The fact you have to watch where you step due to dog crap and pee on buildings. The source of "what's that smell?" Graffiti on walls of otherwise beautiful old buildings. The frustrations of not getting the language quite right. Traffic. It all happens at eye level and can be a bit shocking when the photos you see are from so far back, all you notice are the parts ten feet and up, not the trash on the ground and the smoking guy on the corner. I admit, it was a bit of a shock for me, as a 17-yo visiting for the first time. I had four years of french language and culture studies under my belt and thought I was prepared. HA!!!!!! Going back as an adult, with more French, more understanding and knowing more French people, I went expecting some cracks in the Parisian facade. It was what it was. I'm sure I'd still be a bit overwhelmed if I went now. There are stories of Japanese tourists being so depressed from seeing the REAL Paris and having their dreams smashed to pieces that end up going home early and sick/heartbroken. I watch "Emily in Paris", understanding the reality, laughing at her high heals and knowing it's just a fluff piece, but I still enjoy it. But I can see where it could do harm to someone going to Paris thinking that's reality.
Having lived in Paris, I pre-hated EIP SO HARD. It took me months to finally give in. And I liked it. It's Haagen-Dazs. It's delicious ice cream that you would never consider nutritious or a substitute for a good meal, but it's friggin' delightful and you don't regret it. I'm looking forward to Season 2, not because I need to see more of Paris, but because I want to see more of Emily. It's a show, it makes me laugh. Haterz gonna hate.
One movie I recommend is “Paris, Je t’aime” , which presents vignettes on each of the arrondissments. There’s the obvious fantasy blended with stories of stark reality.
The singular frustration is that it's was such a wasted opportunity to not have her character grow and BECOME French as those of us who landed oblivious as to what we were about to experience. It is said that one isn't born in Paris, but re-born. A new world opened up because I embraced the challenge to learn the language and culture -- Emily doesn't do that, she just remains the one-dimensional, shallow person she was when she arrived. It could have been a teaching moment and a journey of discovery to learn how the French culture differs and what is expected of you -- AND WHY. The simple lesson to greet people before starting into your needs is life-changing; it has stuck with me now that I'm back in the US in that EVERYONE deserves respect and no one should be dismissed as invisible. [THE FOLLOWING IS A NEW PARAGRAPH] Not leaving your abode looking like a schlub. Put a nice shirt on. Wear a blazer. Don't look like you threw on whatever was on the top of the laundry basket. Greet each day as if you're going to either meet the love of your life, or a senior co-worker, or the president. Look like you have the day as your playground.
Born and raised in San Francisco, it doesn't bother me that the world thinks it's always sunny, warm, we ride cablecars everywhere and drive across the GG Bridge every day. I love your vlog BECAUSE you have a POV. Thanks for not making us look at dog shit on the sidewalk. Reality and fantasy both have their place. Life is too short to be a snob.
LOL. I think of SF as cold, overcast, and dirty. I think of Market Street. Hypodermic needles. Gentrification. And random attacks on elderly Asian Women.
My husband got mugged by three guys on the metro in November. I screamed mfing thieves and ranted like a loon and they got nothing. I had the money, not him. They held his arms down while they patted him down. Scary. I was more upset that every person ignored it. Our cab driver on the way to airport said he knew exactly who they were and people are afraid to help. I'm just a crazy lady but 6th trip to Paris and maybe they should film Emily getting mugged. Jay, we stayed two nights in 25 hour hotel and all I could think about was you. Check it out. We had booked a long time ago and had a voucher. We were originally going to take the Eurostar to London but eating those tickets. We had the best views and quiet. Carton is my new fav for breakfast. Cheap but great. They could film a garbage strike. I remember walking in the middle of the road for a week in our neighborhood, the sidewalks were so full. Peace and hoping 2022 is much better.
I get what their saying. I live 2 hours away from L.A. and people think that it’s movie stars and beautiful beaches. Not all of like that. You see beauty in 20 mins and the next thing know, there a crackheads and the walls with graffiti. But the fantasy of everything look beautiful and some like to get away from the troubles of real life.
Using gay people as props, racism against asians and eastern europeans. the show is extremely white too which is weird for a show set in paris. well... except your fantasy of paris is one with a limmited amount of black people. 5 white love interests.... yeah
Emily in Paris isn’t meant to be realistic. It’s supposed to me a fantasy which I think a lot of us need to see during this pandemic. I think everyone knows Sex and the City or Frazier are not realistic depictions of Seattle or New York. I think creating something to make someone happy or hopeful of traveling in the future or notice a city is a good thing. It’s not fair to dismiss one kind of creative perspective vs another. It’s entertainment. If I want to get a better perspective of day to day real Paris, I’ll keep watching your channel. I appreciate and love it by the way. Thank you.❤️
I'm an American who has never traveled abroad and I am appalled by Emily's behavior and personality. She is my least favorite character on that show. She is rude, pretty much sleeps with everyone and has horrible taste in clothes. I watch for the scenery and listening to the French language, certainly not the Emily character. I'm embarrassed they made her an American!
I'm gonna say it. I think Americans hate Emily in Paris because it points out exactly what we as Europeans often find problematic and annoying about them, and that makes them insecure. Saying it is offensive to Parisian culture as an American is just a way to avoid admitting these insecurities.
Emily in Paris is trash, but for so many more reasons. I have just come to realise why it has more of an effect on people further afield than in Europe, and I think that there is nothing to counteract the fantasy that is being fed through the screen. It's the same thing with Americans and London (and vice versa) where everything is expect everything to be like the movies when its far from. I think that you ended the video well by stating that you present a view of Paris (even with those interviewed) that maybe different from Tiffany Davis another American living in Paris, or Damon Dominique. The fact really is that Emily is bad because it is badly written and juvenile. I also think that no mature adult should take direct references from TV shows when travelling and expect that to be what they find when they reach the destination. When I have travelled to either Paris or America, its never been like what I have seen on American TV shows/film, but then I have never expected it to be...apart from the building, and even then I was occasionally surprised.
TV shows in generally are lack of realism. That’s why I have been watching more TH-cam’s than TV. I also view ‘Emily in Paris’ as if it is one of the Disney’s program, it is so unrealistic that only a child would think that’s how life is in Paris.
This is similar to the discussion on social media of younger millennials and gen z influencers who are moving to NYC because of gossip girl etc. It’s so annoying because they treat a place with real struggles and issues like an aesthetic. So many people are currently being forced out of NYC because of issues like gentrification. The problem is that the entertainment industry knows that the younger generation is obsessed with y2k media and Emily in Paris is a prime example of that. It’s the same format as The Devil Wears Prada showing only the glamorous sides of NYC. That’s why what you do is so important. I went to Paris knowing that it is more than just the Eiffel Tower and baguettes. There is a culture there that I should observe and respect.
Yeah, I saw a 20-something TH-camr move there from FL who was so scared to leave her apartment that she ended up leaving and moving back home! I grew up in Florida but have traveled to NYC a dozen times and now live abroad. There are certain skills one needs to navigate a massive city and living outside of one’s hometown, and you don’t get them from watching TV shows! I did road trips and short trips first over years. Then again, maybe some people’s temperament is more suited to this kind of lifestyle. Many people say to me “I could never live abroad like you!” While for me, living in one place for years and buying a home is far more intimidating.
Haha, I loved to hear everyone’s perspective of the show. I moved to the south of France from Los Angeles when Emily in Paris came out and I actually enjoyed it…. I love cheesy chick flicks. It’s definitely true that it would have been great to see the true take on expats abroad, it’s definitely not easy ( currently waiting on my Carte de Sejour renewal… 6 months and still nothing) but the beauty of France does make everything better. I think I do contribute to romanticizing my life abroad on TH-cam and IG and sprinkle in the reality of it sometimes but if we always focus on the negatives in life how sad would that be.
I do think it's all about balance in the end, and we all put our romantic spin on living here one way or another. It's why I'm not anti-Emily, but definitely see why it falls pretty far on the sliding scale of romanticism. Also best of luck with the titre, that process has only gotten more opaque with covid (which I never would have guessed was possible)
You think Paris is “Rife with struggles to survive”? You have to be kidding me. France is a G7 country with every modern convenience imaginable and people who can speak English. It’s an absolute joke to live in Paris. I’ve lived in dangerous regions of Mexico, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Venezuela and Israel so to hear someone complain about living in Paris is prerty laughable.
I lived/worked in Paris (to be fair, St. Cloud) for a year, back in 1994. I've watched the series. I enjoyed it for entertainment value and a bit of nostalgia. I'd LOVE it if (a-hem) someone like you and/or Lindsey promoted any series that is more realistic. I like that you referred to "Midnight in Paris!" I could go on with my fun and not-so-fun experiences. Now I look back on all of them with warm regard!
I have enjoyed Emily in Paris, not for the “reality” but for the backdrop of a wonderful city. I’ve traveled to Paris with my French company 16 times and all together, nearly 100 times including our multiple vacations each year. That said, I understand the fantasy of EiP, but also understand the reality of living in Paris. We rent an apartment during our stays and try to have the experience of LIVING in Paris. Yes, there are negatives, but I choose to enjoy the positives and just deal with the negatives. True, I’ve not really had to deal with the French administration on issues as you have, but I am aware that it is very difficult. Even French colleagues had issues, so the reality isn’t easy. In the end, I love Paris and visit 2-3 times per year when COVID doesn’t interfere. Thank you for sharing your real life experiences! Happy New Year, Jay.
A backdrop where almost NEVER rains. I have exchanged impressions with a friend in London and those years ir seems that it rained more in Paris than in London.
It is a fantasy, scripted stories told in a fast pace, just like 007 movies. I was an expat in French speaking part of Switzerland, and have traveled in France extensively. Young single expats like to gather and party, that is very true, although not as glamorous as portrayed in the series. The film crew were spot on with most of the stereotypes for Americans and the French ppl, these all reminded me of working with the French. Of course for me the most UNrealistic part in the series is almost every French person Emily runs into can speak fluent English with little accent.
There is a saying " money can't buy happiness but i'd rather cry in a mercedes than on a bicycle " paris is the mercedes. All the people complaining about how Emily in Paris is not real have never lived in a small town where everything closes at 5 pm and you have nowhere to go. Stop complaining and realise that life is horrible everywhere but some places have magic that give you strength to keep on fighting. Appreciate the fact that you were lucky enough to live there. And there are some of us who are still crazy fascinated with that beautiful city. Believe me, even the small town has pee on the walls 😅
Sure, I think just as any place Paris has its areas that aren't as classically "Paris" - the buildings might be more modern or the shops less chic. Generally areas around any train stations (really in any city) can be less welcoming.
As a former resident I was hoping that such a young, hip, social-media saturated person wouldn't have such...basic taste. I didn't mind the fantasy part of big apartment, cliché designer wardrobe and the smiley American optimism. But there weren't any remotely interesting parts of the city that she visited. Maybe this new season I'll be wrong.
I think life for you young people in Paris is probably MUCH harder than life for us older people in Paris...you actually have to work, etc. I love you, Jay, but I also love Emily in Paris -- the fantasy, for sure. And I really hate her clothes. Ick. But I do adore the actors.
I agree that Emily in Paris is a show with the fantasy and cliche based perspective. I haven't lived in Paris but I know the struggle of a city like Paris. Life's not easy especially no where close to what's shown in the show. However, when I saw the show first time I liked it. So much so that I'm excited for the second season. And here's the reason why. Anyone living in a big city going through everyday struggle want an escape from life. This is why we watch shows that we like but know we can't live like that. People like me who have fantasized about living in Paris, this show gives us exactly the fantasy which is built into our minds. No doubt it adds upto the wrong notion of what Paris is like but guilty as charged it helps me live a fantasy through a TV show and I like it. To sum it up, we have 2 types of audience here one fantasy based and the other wanted to see real life like shows. I'd love a show like Emily in Paris which is more of a reality based so whenever we want to live whichever version we can watch that show.
This was a great video. Lots of sound arguments. I WILL point out that, despite Emily being absolutely insufferable in her stereotypical American-ness, she actually does occasionally appear to make an effort to learn French (she is taking a French class that we see her go to once or twice, and at some point late in the first season Camille points out that Emily's French is improving). As other commenters here have stated, I mostly watched the show (and will watch season 2) for the escapism aspect, not because I am fooling myself into thinking it's a realistic portrayal of life in Paris. A show I really loved that is far more realistic is Le Plan Coeur ("The Hookup Plan" in English); it scratches a similar romantic comedy itch but with much more legit story lines and characters. And lots of great shots of Paris!
Putting the expat issue aside for a moment, our biggest issue with Emily in Paris is that she slept with her good friend Camille's boyfriend! And that was after sleeping with her underage brother! (Not that we're avid watchers of the program or anything, haha) BTW, we live in Grenoble and feel we get as much of the "magic" and less of the misery we hear about Paris. Sure, not the iconic Paris landmarks or big city energy and activities but instead the Alps, easy access to nature, super friendly locals, and plenty of frenchy-french stuff.
Try being not-Caucasian and living in literally ANY city in the US. Compared to that, living in Paris is a piece of gateau. What I mean is I don’t think the “hardships” you & your friends encountered in Paris is unique to this city… it’s just the truth about being an immigrant in any city. For that fact I love movies and shows that glamorize Paris because it shows the great attributes Paris has to offer; if you’ve been an outsider in your own country before you can imagine what the bad attributes are.
I totally get the criticisms, but I agree with the #3 persons opinion. It is not reality. And that’s okay. For me, I like it because it shows some of the weird shit that can happen here (maybe not accurately, but it is totally relatable).
Love Emily in Paris and it's just a romp or farce and is very entertaining....the boss Sylvie deserves a award for her hilarious portrayal.....lighten up all.
I have never been to France but have friends currently working in France. My friends that were in Paris eventually left cause its just too expensive. These are people with great jobs and they couldn't afford it. While I do enjoy Emily in Paris, I also watch a lot of urban gritty French dramas so I've had an idea of what the other side could be. Every major city is plagued with problems. For me the show is just mindless entertainment but I do understand why Americans living in Paris would be offended.
the same story goes on in London, you could work for a top 100 firm and not be able to afford your own flat to rent .... pets and children? forget it. the issue is with stagnant wages
Love the insight. I agree they missed a lot of great opportunities to show the conflicts of getting around Paris. After visiting twice with family that speak no French I experienced plenty of hilariously frustrating situations that would have made great content. Great job Jay!
I'm supposed to be compassionate towards a TV series which butchers two cultures at the same time? Considering how much money these Hollywood people make I will reserve my compassion for people who deserve it. Even in a fantasy having a few more accurate aspects in a show I think is a fair expectation for a TV viewer. Please do more homework than what a high schooler would have to do for a book report.
i’m saying this as an american who has been to france twice: it would be the equivalent of someone else making a show about americans, but all they do is go through the mcdonalds drive through and hunt deer in their backyards, all the american characters are obese and behave obnoxiously in public, and the (immigrant) main character’s employer acts snobby to them because they aren’t american
It was hard for me to give it a chance at first as I've lived abroad in Barcelona for 5 years and used to visit my expat friends living in Paris, but once I gave it a chance, I loved it for being able to see beautiful scenes in Paris.
Are we ever going to see the wheel again? Life in Paris through the eyes of a fellow zooming around while balancing on a single wheel, commenting, and making videos all at the same time was an amazing experience for this particular viewer.
Wow, we DO need a show that tells the stories of daily life in Paris in more realistic ways, and even with some affectionately satirical spins, kind of like its own version of "Portlandia." Those would be great stories! I would most definitely tune in. I want someone to make that show!!
“Emily in Paris” and Lindsey Tramuta both represent stereotypes of American women in Paris. You can love, detest or be ambivalent to one, both or neither .. Chacun à son goût.
Jay man, I love your videos and the perspective you offer as an expat living in Paris, but 'Paris is more frequently a backdrop for disaster than for romance', surely you can't be serious?
Real life is what this blog is depicting. Emily in Paris is fiction and light hearted. Why do you need to analyze it and call it "problematic". Lighten up and enjoy the fiction.
I just watched the second season... and realized it's like how "saved by the bell" wasn't anything like high school. It's a silly fantasy. I just hope young girls don't try to move there expecting that as a reality. (Yes, as a new NYC transplant, I expected a sex in the city/friends mashup- but I was used to being poor so that wasn't a change, I adjusted my expectations and still had fun)
I can imagine the frustration but I watched it for the scenery. I'm planning a trip and it's nice to see the sites. As an Australian who is stereotyped by Americans in tv and movies (I'm looking at you Paul Hogan - yes he is Australian but no representation) I've learned to ignore the superfluous crap and boring characters.
@@JaySwanson indeed. Besides who the f can afford her clothes??? I'm going to fly business class - sadly after a bucket load of economy flights I've learned I cant sleep sitting up - and one of her handbags would pay for that! Again, great for the scenery, the characters not so much.
Good morning, Jay, As a man brought up in NYC as a kid to adulthood and who loves Paris this is how I describe it. It's a very old filthy, dirty metropolitan city that is one of the most wonderful places on the planet. I think too many people visit Paris with grand illusions and become disappointed at its reality. Sadly, these are the people who finally make the trip and then miss the incredible wonders that are all around them. This is why shows such as yours and others are so important to watch to get the true meaning of both the city and its people.
When I was in Paris for the first time in the late 70’s and then again in the 80’s it WAS spotless! Absolutely clean. Absolutely magical. It changed in the 90’s. Now it’s dirty like New York. But still beautiful!
It’s just a tv show, purely only for entertainment. It’s too bad people have got their knickers in a knot about it! I quite liked it, but watched it for the Parisian scenes. “Emily”’ s clothes were appalling though! 😱 I liked the characters of the snobby/snooty boss woman, and Mindy too. Good to debate it though.
yup I have to say the fashion is not as good as Gossip Girl (the OG one). I would also have liked it if it was more feminist and did not show her go for a man who is taken
It's not just Americans in Paris who think this show is utter crap, Jay. 😂 The writing is just not very good and Emily's utter lack of respect and just being one of "those" Americans is just so cringey and perpetuates the stereotype that all Americans are like this, is extremely frustrating. For me, the show's ONLY saving grace is Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu...because she's always awesome. Unfortunately, even Philippine isn't enough to get me to watch even one more episode of this show.
Sorry but having lived in the both Chicago and Paris, the way Americans carry themselves in France is not very far away from how Emily behaves. The obnoxious and clueless attitudes are rampant with Americans abroad
MON DIEU! Quelle Horror! Okay, I'm going to spill the beans. 1) No respect for the French or the language! The actress called a waiter garcons! At that moment I pressed the stop button. 2) This really is made for fantasy NOT reality! NO ONE speaks that much ENGLISH in a French company! This show is juvenile and not well made, bad writers and not a good representation living in Paris. FINI.
What an insightful and valuable contribution to the discussion around Emily in Paris! Really enjoyed this video Jay and loved that you included another one of my favourite authors Lindsey Tramuta whose book truly helps to substantiate the call to highlight some of the diverse realities of Paris which Lindsey rightly asks also be included in the flights of escapism included in this Netflix series. Excellent video Jay!
We took a long weekend there in October because we suspected there would be another lockdown at Christmas in the Netherlands. We stayed in Le Marais and it was magical. We went out to eat and the Parisian family eating next to us was joking about Emily in Paris…something to do with crème brûlée on the menu. I think I appreciate the show for what it is, slick soap opera escapism for lockdown fun. Loved the thoughtfulness of this video. Great reminders to go order the New Paris and the New Parisienne .
Think Paris has become too much of a tourist destination, and the Parisians want it for themselves only. They're happy to take your money, but they're also of the mind "don't let the door hit you on the way out". I personally find the French people outside of Paris much more welcoming and friendly. Maybe it's because they don't have to put up with culturally ignorant foreigners traipsing through their city every minute of the day.
Hey just wanted to give some thoughts. The background music was a bit too loud in some sections, making the interview or your voice inaudible. Maybe you could use music without singing or cut to the music in the next scene. Also, the first interview could have been done in a more quiet setting instead of on the streets. Aside from those two the content was great. Keep up the good work! I also have a few questions: what are some examples of the major differences btw Emily in Paris and reality? How many people in Paris actually speak fluent English?
Haha my boyfriend is French and he I look forward to watching 2nd season together. I think he just likes it because he has the hots for « Emily » I agree the escapism element of it is the key. Paris is romanticized regardless of this series. The reality is different . This is not a reality show it’s meant to be a feel good series that was needed during these difficult times. Frankly, I am not a fan of Paris . I grew up in LA . Big City life is not for me. Competition, overpopulation, traffic, stress etc.
I was addicted to your channel until covid canceled my trip there. Then it became much to painful to think about Paris. Now I am going to start planning again so you are BACK IN! SORRY... PLZ FORGIVE. ❤
I enjoyed Emily in Paris as just pure entertainment. I guess it is like any rom com about living in pretty much any city. It’s pure fantasy. We as a culture need escapism. I truly understand your and Lindsay’s view. I feel you need a balance of both the good and bad to truly round it out. I do especially enjoy all the backdrops. But shows like this and your kind of more realistic content keeps us wanting more. Makes us want to visit and see for our self. That is why I just returned yesterday from a week in Paris myself. The famous sights, sounds, food, and energy pull us there and keep us wanting more. 🤩🇫🇷 Merry Christmas 🎄🎁
My problem with this, as a french parisian, is that this is not a fantasy, this is MY city, people actually live here. If you want escapist fantasy, make your own, don't appropriate other countries' cities. The very existence of this show as it is re-enforces the stereotype of americans as imperialists, treating the whole world as their property, uninterested in learning other people's worldview, and THAT is a huge disservice to normal americans who actually want to connect with other culture. The whole thing is just very insulting.
So I finished watching the 2nd season. The only thing I didn't like was how the show glorified cheated and having affairs with spouses. They think Paris is the go to place for romantic love affairs when in reality almost every city is like that. I honestly felt really bad for Camille. She treated Emily like a sister, but was completely backstabbed by her. If she had been honest from the beginning, Camille would be upset yes and she would not speak to Emily for months maybe. But Camille would eventually come back to Emily and appreciate the honesty. But because that didn't happen, Emily kept her affair a secret that made things much worse
This is, by far, your best video ever. Hands down. I love to travel and due to Paris' hype, I was truly let down and didn't get the same warm and fuzzies that the hype filled my head with. I have gone to other cities in the world not knowing about them and found the wonder of it. I didn't find this in Paris. This video makes me want to go back to seek the reality of it.
I'm glad it does! I think the reality of the city has plenty to offer and is always worth exploring. Setting realistic (or low-to-non-existant 😆) expectations for a place always helps a bit. I hope your return trip is way better!
I went to Paris with low expectations and was blown away and fell in love. I live in Asia and many Americans I meet who live abroad are nothing like Emily. It would be nice if something could simply show a person who was respectful and more interested in taking IN a culture than being rude to & judging it. You can have Emily face some of the things she did without being the most obnoxious version of 300+million people. It would be way more compelling and still “magical.” Similar for Parisians, if there is an intriguing and compelling reality, why show the most obnoxious and inaccurate version of a population? How is that an engaging fantasy?
Want an early look at my videos before they go public? Patrons get that chance (hint hint nudge nudge): www.patreon.com/posts/why-americans-in-60139024
Also, sorry for the poorly mixed music levels at the very beginning - mistakes were made 😆 hope the video is still worth the watch!
I'm familiar with several ex-pats in Paris - via IG and TH-cam. I think they perpetuate the myth of Paris Perfection every bit as much as EIP does. Jay, you are just about the only one I know that has truly shared the difficulty of living there, in perfect measure, with the amazing opportunity it has been for you.
"Living in Paris is simultaneously magical and horrible" is the most accurate description of life in the city that I have ever heard.
It's a living dichotomy 😆
I've been in Paris on Christmas 2021. It's dranched in wee… I don't see any magic in this
@@FrancescoMantovani Agreed!
What do you mean ?
@@FrancescoMantovani actually it's a unique blend of wee, cigarettes and browned butter that surprisingly is a little magic.
We watched Emily primarily to see Paris as a backdrop for the show. As Jay said, it was about as real to actual life in Paris as Friends was to life in NYC. The expat issue aside, we enjoyed “Call My Agent!” far more as a television show depicting Parisian life.
Call My Agent is a great show!
Same lol
@@JaySwanson CMA is one of my favorites! It's like "Extras" in Paris. But there's the difference, right? Life in Paris as written, directed and produced by the French versus the same thing, as created by the "Sex and the City" guy. 😂
We watch SATC from another continent. We enjoy it. Because we are not idiots! We know its not a Documentary. But a character like Samantha Jones may actually exist, after all its not a Soap Opera or a Sitcom. But its still a comedy. Emily In Paris could have been another SATC. But they gave us something ORIGINAL! This has elements of The Devil Wears Prada, SATC, and even GLEE. But its Fresh and Unique. This is coming from someone who cant stand 45 seconds of BRIDGERTON or Gossip Girl.
Yes! Call My Agent is wonderful.
I did watch season 1, but only like 3 months ago. I do agree with the Friends reference. What bothered me the most was Emily’s attitude of not willing to learn the culture/language of the country she is living in. I know she didn’t have a lot of pre move time to learn French, bit to me it was more than just a lack of willing to learn a language. It’s the “I’m American so I can go anywhere and people to do things they way I want” attitude that I cannot stand.
Yeah, her resounding commitment to her ignorance was one of many off-putting elements
That’s so on point! And this is what irritates me when I see American expats in Paris. I also come from another culture and my French is not good at all either. But I try and I do try to understand the culture and accept the fact that my way may not be the right way in this society. But when I see my American expat friend, I still find that she thinks her American way is the best and it’s the French/Parisians who are doing wrong to her.
LMAO the attitude to not conform is a theme of the show, it's explored heavily and mentioned constantly.
Actually, in real life she speaks fluent French.
@beastbombshell3589Do you truly believe people who come to the USA and can’t speak English fully participate/benefit from American society either economically, socially, spiritually and healthwise? You are sorely mistaken. Many non English speakers sadly live on the fringes of society in the USA. And none are white collar workers. Here’s a big secret…IF they had the resources, time, money and support to magically learn English most of them would jump at the chance. That’s the big difference.
Emily in Paris was meant to be an international version of Sex and The City, nobody should take it serioulsy since its a feel-good show that was made just to highlight the city and thrive on the fantasy elements of visiting abroad. The show stays true to itself by being as superficial as they come but thats why viewers can't get enough and tune in. Simply put, nobody wants to see the pee-stained streets and refugee camps of paris, they want to see the luxury homes - bistros - restaurants - models - high fashion - night clubs etc.
Glad someone gets its being what it is and not a documentary or something.
Valid points.
But then if u rewatch satc or gossip girls for that matter, some of the elements are really outdated and cringe in today's society. I mean it's ok to have fantasy but its not ok to label it realistic and feelgood story should feel good and not feel shit.
@@Ummmmmmmm841 Good point. Perhaps since my reaction to the trailer was a "cringe" that should be a fair warning.
you could make such a show without using gay people as props, being weirdly racist against asians and being weirdly racist against eastern europeans.
There is just... no reason for that. you could say its comedy but then I just point to minstrel shows... and you know... for the comedy defence to work, you should be funny.
Emily is also young, white, pretty and super ready to mingle. Life tends to be a lot easier for people like her.
(btw, I feel the background music is too distracting, especially at the start)
Well, too late for that 😆 but hopefully it doesn't ruin the whole thing. And yeah, being pretty makes for some inroads jokers like me miss on the regular
More like white and skinny. I find her face unattractive. She plain at best
@Beastbombshell no. It’s significantly different when they’re white.
It doesn't work in Western Europe, in general. Except for a very limited type of jobs. Being white or pretty have no consequences.
1 / Number and level of diplomas
2 / University / school fame
3 / Experience.
And most important is your ability to step on your colleagues. Those who work hard are locked in their work. Those who spend more time to bootlick and step on their colleagues are promoted more easily.
That's how it works most of the time. Fortunately, there are fair working environments too.
I have been traveling to Paris for 20 years, so I have an idea of how it is. I loved the show. Sex In The City wasn't real either. It is entertainment. Some people took it so seriously. It is not a documentary.
My sentiments exactly! I was a French exchange student and I loved the series. It was fun to watch
Exactly, sometimes it’s fun to watch things less realistic for some escapism. We have enough realistic TV as it is
Sex and The City had good dialogue and interesting storylines to make up for it though. Emily in Paris was just dull, and they just spoon feed you everything.
When you see people thinking Wakanda is a real country it kinda explains why people take everything they see on TV serious 🙄
Not American, not French/Parisian but I met an American in Paris (at the metro) rolling her eyes and complaining about the French schedules (metro driver’s taking a break)… she was entitled, bratty and wearing sweats. 🤣 I am 100% ok with escapism and roll my eyes at the show but love it! Things don’t need to be so serious all the time.
I don't believe your story. Most Americans are used to the most crappy public transport on Earth. I live next to two metro stops and if the train is 20 minutes late, it's on time.
This is such an important conversation to bring up, especially for people who have this desire to live and work at a foreign country. I've lived in France and the Philippines(now back in the US) and the amount of stress, problems you come across, and frustrations while living abroad is such a part of day to day life and people often omit these issues in their overall travel narrative. I mean I know people want to focus on all the positives(just look at social media) because like as mentioned, it's a form of escapism. But the problems of living in a forein country, like the frustration of not being able to fully communicate with the locals, and people seeing you as stupid, a waste of their time, or someone they can take advantage of, is soul crushing at times. Going through bureaucratic mess and endless paperwork and fees, experiencing crime, racism, discrimination, or just being lost and confused on even the smallest things(like doing groceries, going to the bank, or even dining out), and just trying to function and survive in your new environment, are all of the process of living in a foreign country. It's not an amusement park or some fantastical place. It has its ups and downs, it's beautiful parts, and it's ugly ones, but that's just life in general and it's the case, especially living in a living, breathing, modern metropolis like Paris. Your experience in the new country you live in is definitely what you make out of it. You really come back as a changed person, someone who sees the world in a broad sense, and you really see and appreciate life in a different(positively) way.
It's an entertainment show. Why are people taking it so serious? This is like doing a review on most Hollywood movies...they are fantasies and are meant to entertain not guide you through life🙄
clearly you're american
with a bad taste in entertainment
I think my brother's take on his first trip to Paris sums it up well. He said, from ten feet and above, Paris is beautiful! It's the stereotype we all see and hope for. But! Below ten feet up is the actual Paris. The fact you have to watch where you step due to dog crap and pee on buildings. The source of "what's that smell?" Graffiti on walls of otherwise beautiful old buildings. The frustrations of not getting the language quite right. Traffic. It all happens at eye level and can be a bit shocking when the photos you see are from so far back, all you notice are the parts ten feet and up, not the trash on the ground and the smoking guy on the corner. I admit, it was a bit of a shock for me, as a 17-yo visiting for the first time. I had four years of french language and culture studies under my belt and thought I was prepared. HA!!!!!! Going back as an adult, with more French, more understanding and knowing more French people, I went expecting some cracks in the Parisian facade. It was what it was. I'm sure I'd still be a bit overwhelmed if I went now. There are stories of Japanese tourists being so depressed from seeing the REAL Paris and having their dreams smashed to pieces that end up going home early and sick/heartbroken. I watch "Emily in Paris", understanding the reality, laughing at her high heals and knowing it's just a fluff piece, but I still enjoy it. But I can see where it could do harm to someone going to Paris thinking that's reality.
Having lived in Paris, I pre-hated EIP SO HARD. It took me months to finally give in. And I liked it. It's Haagen-Dazs. It's delicious ice cream that you would never consider nutritious or a substitute for a good meal, but it's friggin' delightful and you don't regret it. I'm looking forward to Season 2, not because I need to see more of Paris, but because I want to see more of Emily. It's a show, it makes me laugh. Haterz gonna hate.
haha, thats a great way to put it. agreed!
One movie I recommend is “Paris, Je t’aime” , which presents vignettes on each of the arrondissments. There’s the obvious fantasy blended with stories of stark reality.
I LOVE that movie! Glad to see another viewer referencing it.
The singular frustration is that it's was such a wasted opportunity to not have her character grow and BECOME French as those of us who landed oblivious as to what we were about to experience.
It is said that one isn't born in Paris, but re-born. A new world opened up because I embraced the challenge to learn the language and culture -- Emily doesn't do that, she just remains the one-dimensional, shallow person she was when she arrived.
It could have been a teaching moment and a journey of discovery to learn how the French culture differs and what is expected of you -- AND WHY. The simple lesson to greet people before starting into your needs is life-changing; it has stuck with me now that I'm back in the US in that EVERYONE deserves respect and no one should be dismissed as invisible.
[THE FOLLOWING IS A NEW PARAGRAPH]
Not leaving your abode looking like a schlub. Put a nice shirt on. Wear a blazer. Don't look like you threw on whatever was on the top of the laundry basket. Greet each day as if you're going to either meet the love of your life, or a senior co-worker, or the president. Look like you have the day as your playground.
Evolving as a character certainly would have improved things a lot
Two separate ideas deserve two different paragraphs, please don't comment with your sloppy English, it's really unattractive and incoherent.
@@spikedodson3194 I so sorry. Maybe discarding any mirrors in your home will prevent you from befalling the same fate.
Born and raised in San Francisco, it doesn't bother me that the world thinks it's always sunny, warm, we ride cablecars everywhere and drive across the GG Bridge every day. I love your vlog BECAUSE you have a POV. Thanks for not making us look at dog shit on the sidewalk. Reality and fantasy both have their place. Life is too short to be a snob.
LOL. I think of SF as cold, overcast, and dirty. I think of Market Street. Hypodermic needles. Gentrification. And random attacks on elderly Asian Women.
Totally true!! Midnight in Paris is the BEST fantasy depiction of Paris that Emily in Paris will never be.
Need me some "wow"
My husband got mugged by three guys on the metro in November. I screamed mfing thieves and ranted like a loon and they got nothing. I had the money, not him. They held his arms down while they patted him down. Scary. I was more upset that every person ignored it. Our cab driver on the way to airport said he knew exactly who they were and people are afraid to help. I'm just a crazy lady but 6th trip to Paris and maybe they should film Emily getting mugged. Jay, we stayed two nights in 25 hour hotel and all I could think about was you. Check it out. We had booked a long time ago and had a voucher. We were originally going to take the Eurostar to London but eating those tickets. We had the best views and quiet. Carton is my new fav for breakfast. Cheap but great. They could film a garbage strike. I remember walking in the middle of the road for a week in our neighborhood, the sidewalks were so full. Peace and hoping 2022 is much better.
I get what their saying. I live 2 hours away from L.A. and people think that it’s movie stars and beautiful beaches. Not all of like that. You see beauty in 20 mins and the next thing know, there a crackheads and the walls with graffiti. But the fantasy of everything look beautiful and some like to get away from the troubles of real life.
It is nice to forget our troubles for a bit - it's what makes entertainment worthwhile in the end
Why does everything have to be problematic now? I’ve been to Paris many times and felt it was magical. I also loved the series.
Using gay people as props, racism against asians and eastern europeans. the show is extremely white too which is weird for a show set in paris. well... except your fantasy of paris is one with a limmited amount of black people. 5 white love interests.... yeah
@@JAlanne I agree
Beautiful scenery of Paris.. dreamy ratatouille chef, funny sterotypes loved it. And who thinks a city is like a colerfull dream fantasy is an idiot.
Emily in Paris isn’t meant to be realistic. It’s supposed to me a fantasy which I think a lot of us need to see during this pandemic. I think everyone knows Sex and the City or Frazier are not realistic depictions of Seattle or New York. I think creating something to make someone happy or hopeful of traveling in the future or notice a city is a good thing. It’s not fair to dismiss one kind of creative perspective vs another. It’s entertainment. If I want to get a better perspective of day to day real Paris, I’ll keep watching your channel. I appreciate and love it by the way. Thank you.❤️
I'm an American who has never traveled abroad and I am appalled by Emily's behavior and personality. She is my least favorite character on that show. She is rude, pretty much sleeps with everyone and has horrible taste in clothes. I watch for the scenery and listening to the French language, certainly not the Emily character. I'm embarrassed they made her an American!
Lol. I NEVER expect a sitcom to give me reality in any way.
I'm gonna say it. I think Americans hate Emily in Paris because it points out exactly what we as Europeans often find problematic and annoying about them, and that makes them insecure. Saying it is offensive to Parisian culture as an American is just a way to avoid admitting these insecurities.
YES to this.
Emily in Paris is trash, but for so many more reasons. I have just come to realise why it has more of an effect on people further afield than in Europe, and I think that there is nothing to counteract the fantasy that is being fed through the screen. It's the same thing with Americans and London (and vice versa) where everything is expect everything to be like the movies when its far from.
I think that you ended the video well by stating that you present a view of Paris (even with those interviewed) that maybe different from Tiffany Davis another American living in Paris, or Damon Dominique.
The fact really is that Emily is bad because it is badly written and juvenile. I also think that no mature adult should take direct references from TV shows when travelling and expect that to be what they find when they reach the destination. When I have travelled to either Paris or America, its never been like what I have seen on American TV shows/film, but then I have never expected it to be...apart from the building, and even then I was occasionally surprised.
It helps when you're able to maintain realistic expectations (and real-world experience adds so much to that)
TV shows in generally are lack of realism. That’s why I have been watching more TH-cam’s than TV. I also view ‘Emily in Paris’ as if it is one of the Disney’s program, it is so unrealistic that only a child would think that’s how life is in Paris.
This is similar to the discussion on social media of younger millennials and gen z influencers who are moving to NYC because of gossip girl etc. It’s so annoying because they treat a place with real struggles and issues like an aesthetic. So many people are currently being forced out of NYC because of issues like gentrification.
The problem is that the entertainment industry knows that the younger generation is obsessed with y2k media and Emily in Paris is a prime example of that. It’s the same format as The Devil Wears Prada showing only the glamorous sides of NYC.
That’s why what you do is so important. I went to Paris knowing that it is more than just the Eiffel Tower and baguettes. There is a culture there that I should observe and respect.
true, it;s like they have turned these cities into products ...
Yeah, I saw a 20-something TH-camr move there from FL who was so scared to leave her apartment that she ended up leaving and moving back home! I grew up in Florida but have traveled to NYC a dozen times and now live abroad. There are certain skills one needs to navigate a massive city and living outside of one’s hometown, and you don’t get them from watching TV shows! I did road trips and short trips first over years. Then again, maybe some people’s temperament is more suited to this kind of lifestyle. Many people say to me “I could never live abroad like you!” While for me, living in one place for years and buying a home is far more intimidating.
That girl telling about how she doesn't like EIP because it doesn't mirror real life.....I mean, I don't know where to start....
Haha, I loved to hear everyone’s perspective of the show. I moved to the south of France from Los Angeles when Emily in Paris came out and I actually enjoyed it…. I love cheesy chick flicks. It’s definitely true that it would have been great to see the true take on expats abroad, it’s definitely not easy ( currently waiting on my Carte de Sejour renewal… 6 months and still nothing) but the beauty of France does make everything better. I think I do contribute to romanticizing my life abroad on TH-cam and IG and sprinkle in the reality of it sometimes but if we always focus on the negatives in life how sad would that be.
I do think it's all about balance in the end, and we all put our romantic spin on living here one way or another. It's why I'm not anti-Emily, but definitely see why it falls pretty far on the sliding scale of romanticism. Also best of luck with the titre, that process has only gotten more opaque with covid (which I never would have guessed was possible)
You think Paris is “Rife with struggles to survive”? You have to be kidding me. France is a G7 country with every modern convenience imaginable and people who can speak English. It’s an absolute joke to live in Paris. I’ve lived in dangerous regions of Mexico, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Venezuela and Israel so to hear someone complain about living in Paris is prerty laughable.
true
Amen!
I lived/worked in Paris (to be fair, St. Cloud) for a year, back in 1994. I've watched the series. I enjoyed it for entertainment value and a bit of nostalgia. I'd LOVE it if (a-hem) someone like you and/or Lindsey promoted any series that is more realistic. I like that you referred to "Midnight in Paris!" I could go on with my fun and not-so-fun experiences. Now I look back on all of them with warm regard!
I have enjoyed Emily in Paris, not for the “reality” but for the backdrop of a wonderful city. I’ve traveled to Paris with my French company 16 times and all together, nearly 100 times including our multiple vacations each year. That said, I understand the fantasy of EiP, but also understand the reality of living in Paris. We rent an apartment during our stays and try to have the experience of LIVING in Paris. Yes, there are negatives, but I choose to enjoy the positives and just deal with the negatives. True, I’ve not really had to deal with the French administration on issues as you have, but I am aware that it is very difficult. Even French colleagues had issues, so the reality isn’t easy. In the end, I love Paris and visit 2-3 times per year when COVID doesn’t interfere. Thank you for sharing your real life experiences! Happy New Year, Jay.
A backdrop where almost NEVER rains. I have exchanged impressions with a friend in London and those years ir seems that it rained more in Paris than in London.
Mindblowing how much importance is placed on a lighthearted fantasy. We are not stupid. We KNOW it can't actually be this way.
It is a fantasy, scripted stories told in a fast pace, just like 007 movies. I was an expat in French speaking part of Switzerland, and have traveled in France extensively. Young single expats like to gather and party, that is very true, although not as glamorous as portrayed in the series. The film crew were spot on with most of the stereotypes for Americans and the French ppl, these all reminded me of working with the French. Of course for me the most UNrealistic part in the series is almost every French person Emily runs into can speak fluent English with little accent.
There is a saying " money can't buy happiness but i'd rather cry in a mercedes than on a bicycle " paris is the mercedes. All the people complaining about how Emily in Paris is not real have never lived in a small town where everything closes at 5 pm and you have nowhere to go. Stop complaining and realise that life is horrible everywhere but some places have magic that give you strength to keep on fighting. Appreciate the fact that you were lucky enough to live there. And there are some of us who are still crazy fascinated with that beautiful city. Believe me, even the small town has pee on the walls 😅
Haha well most people I know living here came from those small towns you speak of, there are definitely pros and cons wherever one may live!
I watched the first season a few days ago and I love the shots of Paris and being able to escape there. Going in, I didn’t expect it to be deep .
Does Paris have a dirty seedy side or parts of town that’s not so picturesque?
Sure, I think just as any place Paris has its areas that aren't as classically "Paris" - the buildings might be more modern or the shops less chic. Generally areas around any train stations (really in any city) can be less welcoming.
As a former resident I was hoping that such a young, hip, social-media saturated person wouldn't have such...basic taste. I didn't mind the fantasy part of big apartment, cliché designer wardrobe and the smiley American optimism. But there weren't any remotely interesting parts of the city that she visited.
Maybe this new season I'll be wrong.
I think life for you young people in Paris is probably MUCH harder than life for us older people in Paris...you actually have to work, etc. I love you, Jay, but I also love Emily in Paris -- the fantasy, for sure. And I really hate her clothes. Ick. But I do adore the actors.
Try being older and having to work. Try having nothing , and no handsome young men offering their douche. Your age doesn't help; your money does.
I agree that Emily in Paris is a show with the fantasy and cliche based perspective. I haven't lived in Paris but I know the struggle of a city like Paris. Life's not easy especially no where close to what's shown in the show.
However, when I saw the show first time I liked it. So much so that I'm excited for the second season. And here's the reason why. Anyone living in a big city going through everyday struggle want an escape from life. This is why we watch shows that we like but know we can't live like that. People like me who have fantasized about living in Paris, this show gives us exactly the fantasy which is built into our minds. No doubt it adds upto the wrong notion of what Paris is like but guilty as charged it helps me live a fantasy through a TV show and I like it.
To sum it up, we have 2 types of audience here one fantasy based and the other wanted to see real life like shows. I'd love a show like Emily in Paris which is more of a reality based so whenever we want to live whichever version we can watch that show.
So when do you and Lindsey and other creative ex-pats create a series that tells the story exactly as Lindsey describes? I'd watch that.
Jay, maybe you should pen a more realistic version of the Ex-Pat journey and pitch it to Prime!! Seems like there’s a demand for it…🙃
You would think 😆
If you want a good time, watch it in the French dub. They make her speak French in the silliest Amercian accent.
This was a great video. Lots of sound arguments. I WILL point out that, despite Emily being absolutely insufferable in her stereotypical American-ness, she actually does occasionally appear to make an effort to learn French (she is taking a French class that we see her go to once or twice, and at some point late in the first season Camille points out that Emily's French is improving). As other commenters here have stated, I mostly watched the show (and will watch season 2) for the escapism aspect, not because I am fooling myself into thinking it's a realistic portrayal of life in Paris. A show I really loved that is far more realistic is Le Plan Coeur ("The Hookup Plan" in English); it scratches a similar romantic comedy itch but with much more legit story lines and characters. And lots of great shots of Paris!
Putting the expat issue aside for a moment, our biggest issue with Emily in Paris is that she slept with her good friend Camille's boyfriend! And that was after sleeping with her underage brother! (Not that we're avid watchers of the program or anything, haha) BTW, we live in Grenoble and feel we get as much of the "magic" and less of the misery we hear about Paris. Sure, not the iconic Paris landmarks or big city energy and activities but instead the Alps, easy access to nature, super friendly locals, and plenty of frenchy-french stuff.
Yeah she slept with both of them and with Zero repercussions… like it was no big deal outside an “ oops”… spoiled girl…
Why would people belive Emily in Paris is how life in Paris suppose to be. It's just a series in Netflix.
Try being not-Caucasian and living in literally ANY city in the US. Compared to that, living in Paris is a piece of gateau. What I mean is I don’t think the “hardships” you & your friends encountered in Paris is unique to this city… it’s just the truth about being an immigrant in any city. For that fact I love movies and shows that glamorize Paris because it shows the great attributes Paris has to offer; if you’ve been an outsider in your own country before you can imagine what the bad attributes are.
Excellent point!
I totally get the criticisms, but I agree with the #3 persons opinion. It is not reality. And that’s okay. For me, I like it because it shows some of the weird shit that can happen here (maybe not accurately, but it is totally relatable).
Love Emily in Paris and it's just a romp or farce and is very entertaining....the boss Sylvie deserves a award for her hilarious portrayal.....lighten up all.
I don't like the show, but seriously your friend is taking this way too seriously.
I have never been to France but have friends currently working in France. My friends that were in Paris eventually left cause its just too expensive. These are people with great jobs and they couldn't afford it. While I do enjoy Emily in Paris, I also watch a lot of urban gritty French dramas so I've had an idea of what the other side could be. Every major city is plagued with problems. For me the show is just mindless entertainment but I do understand why Americans living in Paris would be offended.
the same story goes on in London, you could work for a top 100 firm and not be able to afford your own flat to rent .... pets and children? forget it. the issue is with stagnant wages
Since when did we expect realism from shows? If everyone expected realism from every show then you’d have issues with A LOT of Netflix shows.
Love the insight. I agree they missed a lot of great opportunities to show the conflicts of getting around Paris. After visiting twice with family that speak no French I experienced plenty of hilariously frustrating situations that would have made great content. Great job Jay!
If they made it realistic to make the xpats happy it would be canceled in 3 episodes.
I'm supposed to be compassionate towards a TV series which butchers two cultures at the same time? Considering how much money these Hollywood people make I will reserve my compassion for people who deserve it. Even in a fantasy having a few more accurate aspects in a show I think is a fair expectation for a TV viewer. Please do more homework than what a high schooler would have to do for a book report.
Compassion for the show? 🤔 Which video did you mean to leave your comment under?
i’m saying this as an american who has been to france twice: it would be the equivalent of someone else making a show about americans, but all they do is go through the mcdonalds drive through and hunt deer in their backyards, all the american characters are obese and behave obnoxiously in public, and the (immigrant) main character’s employer acts snobby to them because they aren’t american
Careful, that was taking a realistic turn 😂
I know it isn't realistic by any means, but anything that will let me escape from the nightmare we are all going through, I'll take.
It was hard for me to give it a chance at first as I've lived abroad in Barcelona for 5 years and used to visit my expat friends living in Paris, but once I gave it a chance, I loved it for being able to see beautiful scenes in Paris.
Same can be said for the "Friends" series based in NY City. Slice of ridiculous foolishness served in an entertaining way.
Are we ever going to see the wheel again? Life in Paris through the eyes of a fellow zooming around while balancing on a single wheel, commenting, and making videos all at the same time was an amazing experience for this particular viewer.
Mayhaps - might need a new wheel though. Not sure I trust the old one anymore
I'm in Paris right now for a few weeks and I'm re-watching Emily. I'm enjoying it even more than I did back home.
Wow, we DO need a show that tells the stories of daily life in Paris in more realistic ways, and even with some affectionately satirical spins, kind of like its own version of "Portlandia." Those would be great stories! I would most definitely tune in. I want someone to make that show!!
And American action movies where the hero performs impossible stunts one after the other and absorbs incredible physical forces are also laughable
While cartwheeling over sacré cœur 😆
Lindsay is so articulate. She is spot on!
Now imagine how medical professionals feel about these shows like Scrubs. #cringe
“Emily in Paris” and Lindsey Tramuta both represent stereotypes of American women in Paris. You can love, detest or be ambivalent to one, both or neither .. Chacun à son goût.
Jay man, I love your videos and the perspective you offer as an expat living in Paris, but 'Paris is more frequently a backdrop for disaster than for romance', surely you can't be serious?
It’s called entertainment. Lighten up people.
Except entertainment should be entertaining. It's just about some annoying American girl on a French boy toy romp fest.
Good video! I loved hearing different perspectives and I loved Lindsey’s eloquent explanation 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Real life is what this blog is depicting. Emily in Paris is fiction and light hearted. Why do you need to analyze it and call it "problematic". Lighten up and enjoy the fiction.
It's a show. It's entertainment. It's fantasy. Don't take it so seriously.
I just watched the second season... and realized it's like how "saved by the bell" wasn't anything like high school. It's a silly fantasy. I just hope young girls don't try to move there expecting that as a reality. (Yes, as a new NYC transplant, I expected a sex in the city/friends mashup- but I was used to being poor so that wasn't a change, I adjusted my expectations and still had fun)
Thank you for this great review.
Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday and a Happy and Healthy New Year 🥂❤.
Ratatouille is all the Paris romanticizing I need…. Happy new year Jay!
Ratatouille was in Lyon. ;-)
Funny to see all people triying to get out the "meaning of life" out of a Netflix show. Is just a show you either like the story or not, thats it.
The thing that bothers me the most is the usage of the word "ex-pat".
"How the administration will find every chance they can to make me question my worth as a human being."
Hahahhahahah
Love your videos =)
Thank you!
I can imagine the frustration but I watched it for the scenery. I'm planning a trip and it's nice to see the sites. As an Australian who is stereotyped by Americans in tv and movies (I'm looking at you Paul Hogan - yes he is Australian but no representation) I've learned to ignore the superfluous crap and boring characters.
Good to learn to look past the crap and enjoy what you came for 😊
@@JaySwanson indeed. Besides who the f can afford her clothes??? I'm going to fly business class - sadly after a bucket load of economy flights I've learned I cant sleep sitting up - and one of her handbags would pay for that! Again, great for the scenery, the characters not so much.
Good morning, Jay,
As a man brought up in NYC as a kid to adulthood and who loves Paris this is how I describe it. It's a very old filthy, dirty metropolitan city that is one of the most wonderful places on the planet. I think too many people visit Paris with grand illusions and become disappointed at its reality. Sadly, these are the people who finally make the trip and then miss the incredible wonders that are all around them.
This is why shows such as yours and others are so important to watch to get the true meaning of both the city and its people.
When I was in Paris for the first time in the late 70’s and then again in the 80’s it WAS spotless! Absolutely clean. Absolutely magical. It changed in the 90’s. Now it’s dirty like New York. But still beautiful!
It’s just a tv show, purely only for entertainment.
It’s too bad people have got their knickers in a knot about it!
I quite liked it, but watched it for the Parisian scenes.
“Emily”’ s clothes were appalling though! 😱
I liked the characters of the snobby/snooty boss woman, and Mindy too.
Good to debate it though.
yup I have to say the fashion is not as good as Gossip Girl (the OG one). I would also have liked it if it was more feminist and did not show her go for a man who is taken
It's not just Americans in Paris who think this show is utter crap, Jay. 😂
The writing is just not very good and Emily's utter lack of respect and just being one of "those" Americans is just so cringey and perpetuates the stereotype that all Americans are like this, is extremely frustrating. For me, the show's ONLY saving grace is Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu...because she's always awesome. Unfortunately, even Philippine isn't enough to get me to watch even one more episode of this show.
Sorry but having lived in the both Chicago and Paris, the way Americans carry themselves in France is not very far away from how Emily behaves. The obnoxious and clueless attitudes are rampant with Americans abroad
Feel better?
MON DIEU! Quelle Horror! Okay, I'm going to spill the beans. 1) No respect for the French or the language! The actress called a waiter garcons! At that moment I pressed the stop button. 2) This really is made for fantasy NOT reality! NO ONE speaks that much ENGLISH in a French company! This show is juvenile and not well made, bad writers and not a good representation living in Paris. FINI.
What an insightful and valuable contribution to the discussion around Emily in Paris! Really enjoyed this video Jay and loved that you included another one of my favourite authors Lindsey Tramuta whose book truly helps to substantiate the call to highlight some of the diverse realities of Paris which Lindsey rightly asks also be included in the flights of escapism included in this Netflix series. Excellent video Jay!
Thank you, Sharon!!!
We took a long weekend there in October because we suspected there would be another lockdown at
Christmas in the Netherlands. We stayed in Le Marais and it was magical. We went out to eat and the Parisian family eating next to us was joking about Emily in Paris…something to do with crème brûlée on the menu. I think I appreciate the show for what it is, slick soap opera escapism for lockdown fun. Loved the thoughtfulness of this video. Great reminders to go order the New Paris and the New Parisienne .
Anyone know the name of the song at 0:20 ?
There’s definitely a gap in the market. I think something somewhere between Emily in Paris and the TV series Spiral.
I'm from Sweden so I hope you can explain to me what the difference is between an "expat" and an "immigrant". I have no clue.
expat = North American, European (west and nordic)
Immigrant = The others
@@Miaina77 Ah! The usual stuff then. Figures...
Think Paris has become too much of a tourist destination, and the Parisians want it for themselves only. They're happy to take your money, but they're also of the mind "don't let the door hit you on the way out". I personally find the French people outside of Paris much more welcoming and friendly. Maybe it's because they don't have to put up with culturally ignorant foreigners traipsing through their city every minute of the day.
Hey just wanted to give some thoughts.
The background music was a bit too loud in some sections, making the interview or your voice inaudible. Maybe you could use music without singing or cut to the music in the next scene. Also, the first interview could have been done in a more quiet setting instead of on the streets. Aside from those two the content was great. Keep up the good work!
I also have a few questions: what are some examples of the major differences btw Emily in Paris and reality? How many people in Paris actually speak fluent English?
Haha my boyfriend is French and he I look forward to watching 2nd season together. I think he just likes it because he has the hots for « Emily »
I agree the escapism element of it is the key. Paris is romanticized regardless of this series. The reality is different . This is not a reality show it’s meant to be a feel good series that was needed during these difficult times.
Frankly, I am not a fan of Paris . I grew up in LA . Big City life is not for me. Competition, overpopulation, traffic, stress etc.
Haven’t watched Emily in Paris, probably won’t. Did love Call My Agent.
Someone needs to pitch Jay’s Journey to Amazon/Netflix, etc.
Jay does!
Call My Agent is really fun, and good for learning French (double points!)
I appreciate an excellent, balanced, and well-thought out critique.
Thanks! Assuming you're referring to this haha
@@JaySwanson indeedy, I am! I'm a fan of the way you contemplate life.
I was addicted to your channel until covid canceled my trip there. Then it became much to painful to think about Paris. Now I am going to start planning again so you are BACK IN! SORRY... PLZ FORGIVE. ❤
Merry Christmas
Emily in Paris isn’t a documentary.
True?
Thank you for sharing authentic perspectives, and not just panning the show. Would have loved to hear the contributors speak a bit of French 😊
I enjoyed Emily in Paris as just pure entertainment. I guess it is like any rom com about living in pretty much any city. It’s pure fantasy. We as a culture need escapism. I truly understand your and Lindsay’s view. I feel you need a balance of both the good and bad to truly round it out. I do especially enjoy all the backdrops. But shows like this and your kind of more realistic content keeps us wanting more. Makes us want to visit and see for our self. That is why I just returned yesterday from a week in Paris myself. The famous sights, sounds, food, and energy pull us there and keep us wanting more. 🤩🇫🇷 Merry Christmas 🎄🎁
My problem with this, as a french parisian, is that this is not a fantasy, this is MY city, people actually live here. If you want escapist fantasy, make your own, don't appropriate other countries' cities. The very existence of this show as it is re-enforces the stereotype of americans as imperialists, treating the whole world as their property, uninterested in learning other people's worldview, and THAT is a huge disservice to normal americans who actually want to connect with other culture. The whole thing is just very insulting.
So I finished watching the 2nd season. The only thing I didn't like was how the show glorified cheated and having affairs with spouses. They think Paris is the go to place for romantic love affairs when in reality almost every city is like that. I honestly felt really bad for Camille. She treated Emily like a sister, but was completely backstabbed by her. If she had been honest from the beginning, Camille would be upset yes and she would not speak to Emily for months maybe. But Camille would eventually come back to Emily and appreciate the honesty. But because that didn't happen, Emily kept her affair a secret that made things much worse
This is, by far, your best video ever. Hands down. I love to travel and due to Paris' hype, I was truly let down and didn't get the same warm and fuzzies that the hype filled my head with. I have gone to other cities in the world not knowing about them and found the wonder of it. I didn't find this in Paris. This video makes me want to go back to seek the reality of it.
I'm glad it does! I think the reality of the city has plenty to offer and is always worth exploring. Setting realistic (or low-to-non-existant 😆) expectations for a place always helps a bit. I hope your return trip is way better!
I went to Paris with low expectations and was blown away and fell in love. I live in Asia and many Americans I meet who live abroad are nothing like Emily. It would be nice if something could simply show a person who was respectful and more interested in taking IN a culture than being rude to & judging it.
You can have Emily face some of the things she did without being the most obnoxious version of 300+million people. It would be way more compelling and still “magical.” Similar for Parisians, if there is an intriguing and compelling reality, why show the most obnoxious and inaccurate version of a population? How is that an engaging fantasy?