source: Netflix
Sitcoms suck. You may harbor nostalgia for some of a bygone era. You may fondly remember Family Ties or Friends or even Cheers. But, if you watch them now with an unbiased eye, you realize that they were helplessly contrived and not relatable. Perhaps no greater example exists than Two and a Half Men, which was utter garbage yet ran for 12 seasons.
Often it is said that we live in a Golden Age of television. That’d be hard to deny. The proliferation of cable channels and streaming platforms has not diluted content but instead liberated it. Beforehand, the major networks dictated what we watched. They served up bland programing like banquet food—placing a premium on general agreeability, not creativity or uniqueness. Always chicken breast, never braised rabbit. The market has segmented enough to promote innovation and chance taking. Niche audiences, once feared, are now coveted.
source: Netflix
Master of None on Netflix is a revelation. Where the traditional sitcom may deliver a laugh or two but fails to connect with real life, Master of None follows an authentic narrative that speaks to its audience. At least, it spoke to us—our joys, our frustrations, our triumphs and our doubts. And, of course, it is funny because it stars Aziz Ansari, who is funny.
With its genuineness, Master of None reminds us of Louie by Louis C.K. But, the two shows travel different paths. Louie is dark and raw. It reflects a divorced, middle-aged father who’s become cynical from life’s strains. Master of None is warm and heartfelt. Its central character approaches the world with zeal and optimism but also anxiety and hesitation. As he transitions into a thirty-something, he is exploring what he wants from life while navigating the unsure waters of relationships, family and career.
The show reflects shared experiences. It shouldn’t feel so novel, but it does. We really enjoyed Season 1 of Master of None. We related to it. We appreciated its sincerity. You should watch it. Listen to us, or believe the critics whose reviews landed the show a 100% score on RottenTomatoes.com.
