Riot Women Review: Sally Wainwright's Menopausal Punk Drama is One of Her Best

Riot Women review – Sally Wainwright’s menopausal punk drama is one of her best

There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when Sally Wainwright gets behind the camera – a blend of sharp writing, profound character depth, and storytelling that feels both intimately personal and universally resonant. Her latest offering, Riot Women, is no exception. This high-pedigree TV drama about four women in their 50s who form a punk band isn't just a show; it's a vibrant, hilarious, and heart-wrenching celebration of female friendship, resilience, and finding your voice later in life.

At its core, Riot Women follows the journeys of four women at a crossroads. Each is grappling with the myriad challenges that come with this stage of life – from the physical and emotional turbulence of the menopause to the complexities of empty nests, ageing parents, and the feeling of being invisible in a society that often worships youth. Yet, in a moment of defiant brilliance, they decide to channel their collective frustration and energy into forming a punk band. The result is a series that is as rich and plot-packed as Happy Valley or Last Tango in Halifax, perfectly seasoned with a humour that is both sharp and deeply empathetic.

What makes Riot Women so compelling is its unflinching honesty and warmth. Wainwright, who should perhaps be prescribed on the NHS as a form of HRT, masterfully balances the show's more poignant moments with laugh-out-loud comedy. The chemistry between the four leads is electric, their friendships feel lived-in and authentic, and their musical journey is as much about finding harmony with each other as it is about crafting the perfect chord.

This isn't just a show about getting older; it's a powerful statement about living fully. Riot Women captures the specific experience of women navigating the menopause, but its themes of reinvention, solidarity, and the refusal to be silenced are universal. In a cultural landscape often dominated by stories of youth, Riot Women feels like a defiant, joyful scream. It’s a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to make some noise, to find your tribe, and to remind the world—and yourself—that you are here, you are vibrant, and you still have a song to sing.