"Nobody Wants This," the latest romantic comedy series on Netflix, has sparked a variety of reactions from critics and audiences alike. Created by Erin Foster, the show follows the unexpected relationship between Joanne, a sardonic and agnostic podcaster played by Kristen Bell, and Noah, a serious and thoughtful rabbi portrayed by Adam Brody.
Chemistry and Comedy
One of the pivotal aspects of any romantic comedy is the chemistry between the leads, and opinions on this front are divided. While some critics argue that Bell and Brody lack the essential spark, describing their interactions as "stilted" and devoid of the "near-undefinable alchemy" needed for a compelling love story, others praise their chemistry as a highlight of the series. The _New York Times_ notes that the duo exhibits a "delightful chemistry" that enhances their performances, making the show "surprisingly enjoyable".
The _HuffPost_ echoes this sentiment, describing the chemistry between Bell and Brody as "millennial enchantment" that compensates for the series' minor shortcomings. This chemistry is particularly evident in scenes such as Joanne crossing herself in a synagogue and Noah sharing a kiss, which are described as inherently enjoyable.
Narrative and Characterization
The series centers around Joanne and Noah's relationship, which is met with resistance from their families and friends. Joanne co-hosts a sex and relationships podcast with her sister Morgan, while Noah is navigating an ugly breakup and facing pressure to become the head rabbi. The narrative explores traditional rom-com tropes with some contemporary twists, drawing from Foster's personal experiences as a podcaster and her involvement in the Los Angeles dating scene.
However, the characterization of the women in the series has been criticized. According to Roger Ebert's review, the gentile women are portrayed as immature and hyperemotional, while the Jewish women are depicted as judgmental and controlling. This portrayal has been seen as detrimental to the show, as it makes it difficult to root for the characters.
Reception and Critique
The reception of "Nobody Wants This" is varied. On one hand, the series is praised for its polished fluency in the romantic comedy genre and its nostalgic vibe reminiscent of earlier rom-coms from the '70s and '90s. The _New York Times_ appreciates the show's ability to stay true to its genre while feeling contemporary.
On the other hand, critics like those at _The Daily Beast_ and Roger Ebert's site find the show lacking. They argue that the series feels like a cynical attempt to stretch thin content into ten episodes, and that the humor and character development are not as robust as they could be. The show is criticized for its reliance on canned banter and stock phrases, and for not fully exploring the complexities of modern relationships.
Audience Response
Despite the mixed reviews, many viewers have found "Nobody Wants This" to be an enjoyable watch. The show's ability to balance romance and comedy effectively has been a highlight for many, particularly those who grew up watching Bell and Brody in their earlier roles in "Veronica Mars" and "The OC".
The show's ensemble cast, including Timothy Simons as Noah's brother Sasha, adds to its appeal. The dynamic between the central characters, especially the sibling relationships, is praised for its freshness and nostalgic value.
Conclusion
"Nobody Wants This" is a romantic comedy that, while not perfect, offers a delightful and engaging viewing experience for many. With its familiar rhythms, polished comedy, and the chemistry between Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, the series manages to stand out in a genre that has seen recent disappointments. Whether or not it will receive a second season remains to be seen, but for now, it has carved out a niche as a refreshing and enjoyable rom-com in the Netflix lineup.
