"Nobody Wants This" was released to Netflix on Sept. 26, 2024. Although it is a show for mature audiences only, it is full of love and humor. It stars Kristen Bell as Joanne and Adam Brody as Noah Roklov.
The series focuses on Joanne, an agnostic who has a podcast with her sister Morgan (Justine Lupe) that discusses failed relationships and sex. When Joanne attends a party for her friend Ashley (Sherry Cola), she meets Noah Roklov, a rabbi. Meeting him turns her life around.
Highs
"Nobody Wants This" has many highlights. Joanne and Morgan's relationship is one. Their sisterly bond is strong, and they are there for each other no matter what, which shows how much Joanne values Morgan.
Joanne's outfits are another high. They show her personality well and indicate her humorous, confident, and strong character. Her fashion choices are business casual with a hint of boldness.
Another high is the chemistry between Joanne and Noah; it is perfect. They cannot stay away from each other even though his religion does not allow him to be with someone non-Jewish. Even though he is a rabbi, he does not let that stop him from pursuing a relationship with Joanne. His character is brave and confident. He has to fight for the one he loves and his struggle to reconcile his faith and his feelings adds a deep meaning behind his story with religion.
Furthermore, the show portrays Judaism well. It shows the different elements of being a rabbi, and the characters celebrate special holidays. Brody also does a great job speaking Hebrew.
The friendships in this series are another highlight because of all the comedy. For instance, Joanne’s friend Ashley is funny and brings humor and lightheartedness to the show. The banter between Joanne and the Jewish wives connected to Noah is also excellent.
Moreover, the series shows how relationships can evolve over time. The relationship that evolves the most is between Joanne and Noah's sister-in-law Esther (Jackie Tohn). They are enemies at the beginning but slowly become friends.
Noah’s awkward and hilarious brother Sasha is another high. His oblivious brother act adds a comedic aspect to the show. His friendship with Morgan is also significant, especially since they are not supposed to be friends. Their friendship underscores the importance of platonic relationships, and the banter between them is exciting and engaging.
Lows
There are few lows in "Nobody Wants This." However, Noah's mother is one low, considering how conservative and strict she is. She is controlling of her son and does not accept someone outside their religion.
Another low is that in one episode, Noah does not stand up for Joanne against his mother during brunch. This is a low because if he genuinely cares for Joanne, he should stick up for her.
One more low is the lack of background knowledge about Noah’s ex-fiancée and how their relationship evolved. How things ended between them remains confusing, and Noah seems to have no remorse.
Furthermore, the other Jewish wives (particularly Esther) acting like mean girls is a low. Esther's actions go out of hand and she can be a little too mean.
Verdict
Considering the comedy and chemistry between Joanne and Noah, "Nobody Wants This" is worth watching. It is full of sex and podcasts that are sure to entertain the audience and leave them laughing.
Rating: 8 out of 10.
Mariam Fakhreddine is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. She has worked as a news and features reporter for The Echo for two years.
