Master of None | TV Review
*article originally written in 2016*
Master of None
Created by: Aziz Ansari, Alan Yang.
Starring: Aziz Ansari, Noel Wells, Eric Wareheim, Kelvin Yu, Lena Waithe
Master of None is a Netflix original that follows 30-year-old actor Dev as he navigates life in New York City.
It's surprising, considering television has been around since 1925, that this is the first show to honestly portray Westernised ethnic characters. The Mindy Project comes close, but even that show is still very much driven by 'white people' perspectives. As an Indian woman from a similar social class to the characters, it's refreshing to finally see my culture reflected on screen.
What I appreciate most about Master of None is its ability to address real-life issues, such as racism and sexism, in a casual yet thoughtful way. The stories stand out for their originality; they break away from typical comedy formulas and offer intelligent, relatable plots. This show feels like one of the most down-to-earth portrayals of modern adulthood I've watched in a long time, capturing the transition from young adults to real adults with authenticity.
I was also impressed by the way the series is shot. It's visually stunning, with an indie-film quality that you wouldn't expect from a TV show. The production value of Netflix Originals really shines here, with beautifully edited and coloured scenes that make the viewing experience that much more enjoyable.
The only negatives I found were the occasional awkwardness in the acting, particularly in the early episodes. You can sometimes tell it's not entirely natural, but by the end of season one, it feels much more real. Also, while this may be just a personal issue (as a British viewer), Ansari’s voice can sometimes come across as whiny and irritating, which detracts from the experience at times. However, the strong comedic writing generally compensates for this.
Overall, Master of None is definitely a standout show and sets the standard for the future of television. It offers more diversity, mature humour, and a grounded approach to life’s complexities. The perfect balance of drama and comedy without going overboard.