In Hulu’s gripping series “Under the Bridge,” the tragic story of Reena Virk intertwines with the powerful influence of The Notorious B.I.G., creating a poignant narrative that resonates deeply with viewers. The series, based on the real-life murder of the 14-year-old Indian-Canadian teen, delves into the complexities of adolescence, identity, and the impact of hip-hop culture in the 1990s.
Reena Virk, portrayed by Vritika Gupta, is depicted as a teenager trying to find her place among her peers. In the opening episode, she attempts to bond with her new friends by playing The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic 1997 album “Life After Death.” This album, released just 16 days after Biggie’s untimely death, becomes a recurring motif throughout the series. In one memorable scene, Reena and her friends energetically rap along to “Kick in the Door,” capturing the essence of teenage rebellion and the search for identity.
The series, set in the suburban municipality on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, not only tells Reena’s story but also highlights the pervasive influence of hip-hop on 90s youth culture. Showrunner and executive producer Samir Mehta emphasizes the significance of this cultural backdrop, noting that hip-hop music was synonymous with the teenage experience of that era. The music represents Reena’s desire to carve out her own identity, often clashing with her parents’ expectations.
Rebecca Godfrey’s book, which inspired the series, sheds light on Reena’s love for Biggie Smalls. The producers wanted to honor this aspect of her life, as it was one of the few known details about her. Executive producer Quinn Shepard, who adapted the series for television, explains that Reena’s uncle bought her the “Life After Death” CD on the day she was killed, underscoring her deep connection to Biggie’s music.
The series features an array of hip-hop anthems, including tracks by Lil Kim, Warren G, Nate Dogg, Mobb Deep, Foxy Brown, and Cypress Hill, among others. The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Kick in the Door” is prominently featured, along with his hit “Going Back to Cali.” Biggie’s legacy, marked by his multiplatinum debut “Ready to Die” and timeless hits like “Juicy” and “Big Poppa,” continues to influence the series’ narrative.
In one of the final scenes, Reena’s parents, played by Archie Panjabi and Ezra Faroque Khan, sit on their daughter’s bed and listen to Biggie’s music. This moment symbolizes a generational bridge, as they attempt to understand their daughter’s interests and the world she inhabited. Mehta, who wrote the final episode, describes this scene as a poignant attempt by the parents to connect with Reena’s passions, even after her death.
The series also explores the broader cultural context of the 90s, where hip-hop and gang culture were commodified and glamorized. Shepard notes that the teenagers’ fascination with male displays of power and violence reflects their desire for empowerment in a world that often marginalizes them. This theme is evident in the way the girls idolize figures like Biggie and John Gotti, seeking strength and respect through these associations.
“Under the Bridge” also delves into the dynamics of teenage friendships, capturing the volatile and often cruel nature of adolescent relationships. Shepard draws from her own experiences to portray the hot-and-cold behavior of young girls, highlighting the impact of unstable environments and bullying on their actions.
The casting of the series was a meticulous process, particularly for the role of Reena. Mehta and Shepard reviewed hundreds of auditions before selecting Vritika Gupta, who was only 12 years old at the time. Her ability to convey Reena’s journey from innocence to defiance was crucial to the series’ authenticity.
Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, who play key roles in the series, were also integral to its success. Keough’s connection to the project came through a serendipitous introduction, while Gladstone’s involvement was driven by her admiration for Keough. Their performances, along with those of the young cast, bring depth and nuance to the story.
“Under the Bridge” is not just a true-crime series; it is a deeply human exploration of a tragic event, set against the backdrop of a transformative era in music and culture. The series resists the typical rhythms of the genre, instead offering a narrative filled with empathy and understanding. Through the lens of Reena Virk’s life and her love for The Notorious B.I.G., the series invites viewers to reflect on the enduring impact of music, identity, and the search for belonging.
