By Olivia Harrison
Staff Writer
Kristen Bell and Adam Brody star in the new Netflix series “Nobody Wants This.” A rom-com at heart, the show follows a typical love story format while throwing in witty comedy and an unconventional storyline.
Bell stars as Joanne, an agonistic podcaster who focuses primarily on sex and dating on her audio show. Feeling unlucky when it comes to finding love, Joanne doesn’t have high expectations or hopes until she is introduced to Noah, played by Brody, who is a rogue rabbi at a house party. Noah has recently broken off his engagement with Rebecca, his former fiance (played by Emily Airlock) and is also uncertain about romance. However, the two protagonists find that they have an unexpected connection.
The series follows Joanne and Noah through their daily lives, exploring their chemistry and their interfaith struggles. Through comedic banter, viewers are able to see the true connection between Joanne and Noah. The humorous situations and dialogue allow the characters to interact with each other spontaneously, showing the audience a sense of authenticity.
An ensemble cast helps also aid the storyline and shows the strong relationships between Joanne, Noah and their friends and family. The ensemble cast features more minor storylines, such as Noah’s older brother Sasha, played by Timothy Simons, helping his daughter navigate a teenage crush. It also features Morgan, played by Justine Lupe, asking Joanne to do an audio show-related favor.
At its core, the show is humorous, but it also tackles the complexities of an interfaith relationship, along with other familial and religious obstacles. Noah finds that his close Jewish community is not fond of Joanne, feeling that her agonistic background does not fit Jewish tradition. Nevertheless, Noah finds himself learning to balance his relationship with Joanne with the societal and religious expectations of him.
In addition, Joanne finds herself questioning her identity. Feeling the need for acceptance from Noah’s community, she struggles to balance understanding Judisiam and the demands of her work as a podcaster. She also clashes with Morgan and co-host Ashley, played by Sherry Cola, as they wonder what the future holds for the podcast.
Slowly, Joanne and Noah learn more about each other and what they want in a relationship. Although it is quite a challenge, Joanne and Noah manage to make things work while balancing their responsibilities and emotional difficulties.
Throughout the series, viewers can see the emotional toll of the cultural and religious divide while understanding the leading concept: love can conquer all.
With its heartfelt storyline, emotional complexity and hilarious moments, the series teaches viewers that love is complex, requires a mutual understanding and involves sacrifices. Although the series left viewers on a cliffhanger, director Erin Foster has stated that it is not over for Joanne and Noah and has announced a second season.
