Nobody Wants This Is The Romantic Comedy We Needed
Netflix’s new series Nobody Wants This is the romantic comedy we all needed.
When outgoing podcast host Joanne (Kristen Bell) meets rabbi Noah (Adam Brody) at a dinner party, they instantly hit it off. While they’re an unlikely pair, something keeps pulling them together as outside forces try to tear them apart. In a world where a romantic comedy is generally looked upon as holding a lower value than other genres, it’s important to show positive and happy stories that are both realistic and optimistic. Nobody Wants This blends all the best elements of a rom-com with a lens of education and positivity without being cheesy. I love that it highlights older adults falling in love in a way that is just as compelling and emotionally investing as teenage love stories.
Kristen Bell and Adam Brody are independently charismatic and lovable, but put together they reach a new level of on-screen chemistry. Their scenes never feel forced or inauthentic. They communicate so authentically and clearly, setting a good example for audiences. Their ability to make a slow burn feel so fast and worthy of watching is incredible. Their conflicts never feel overly dire, like in many other romantic comedies. As they are adults in their thirties, the two are able to resolve conflicts in healthy ways while still toying the line with audiences by questioning the ‘will they or won’t they?’ trope.
While the leads have enough charisma and chemistry to fill all eight episodes with only their interactions, the ensemble cast is a real joy as well. Sasha (Timothy Simons) and Esther (Jackie Tohn) are the most hilarious married couple where the wife wears the pants. Their dialogue and dynamic is so realistic, funny, and compelling. Sasha’s newfound unconventional friendship with Morgan (Justine Lupe) adds another layer of intrigue to their dynamic as well.
Morgan and Joanne’s sister relationship is equally as relatable. The two butt heads often, but also tend to overshare the details of their personal lives with one another. They share many similar personalities while also differing in how they go about solving problems and forming relationships.
In the romantic comedy genre, parents and family members are often secondary to the story with minimal screen time. With the series structure, audiences are able to get a closer look into the families of the main characters and really understand what drives them and who made them who they are. This is especially important for Noah whose entire life is based around his family structure and religion.
Another highlight is the way that the series serves as an educational piece of media as the audience is able to learn about Jewish culture alongside Joanne. It feels entirely organic and comes from a place of curiosity and willingness to learn without judgement. It’s informative without being preachy.
If you aren’t already watching Nobody Wants This, you better start because this is one of the best romantic comedies in a long time. It’s full of genuine romance, mature conversations, a comedic ensemble, and heartfelt moments that will have you rewatching as soon as you finish.
Nobody Wants This is streaming on Netflix.
