Nobody Wants This is a show that walks the line between innovation and controversy. Its premise–a romance between a free-spirited podcaster and a progressive rabbi–has left viewers buzzing. The ten episodes shed light on Jewish culture from a modern perspective, depicting the religion mainly through the intelligent, cool, and collected rabbi, Noah. While some fans, and religious people, appreciated this portrayal of Judaism, others found it inaccurate and hollywoodified. In whatever way, whether you want this or not, this number one Netflix series has people talking.

By every analysis, this show delivered a flawless production between the established names, Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, professional filming and editing, and an intricate set. Producer Michael Hitchcock prioritized the show’s aesthetics and quality to deliver a well-made presentation. Viewers were fascinated by the beauty of the home where it was filmed, the household-name actors, and overall cohesion.

While the visuals were a highlight, viewers report that the show’s theme and message were equally captivating. Nobody Wants This producers committed themselves to developing a realistic plot and complex characters. This sequence begins when Joanne, a headstrong, bold, and not always buttoned-up podcaster, meets the very opposite organized, patient, and disciplined rabbi Noah. The two have a romantic meet cute at a friend’s dinner party and their chemistry is undeniable. While they bond immediately, problems arise when there are fundamental differences between them, chief among them being Noah’s religion and Joanne’s lack of. The story develops realistically, exposing both the strengths and weaknesses of each character and delivering a well-evolved premise.

In addition to its relatable and intriguing realm, many applauded the show for its focus on a largely unexplored topic in media: religion, namely Judaism. Rabbi Noah is an incredibly moral and disciplined character while also being funny, laid back, and casual at times, which portrays a holistic view of a religious person rather than only honing in on one’s life as being Jewish. He is a fluid, round character who lives an interesting life with religion woven throughout it as opposed to alternative movies and shows where a religious person’s faith becomes their only trait. Many found it refreshing to experience a romantic comedy where the main character was a great example of a practicing Jew from a modern angle.

On the contrary, while some loved the religious aspect, others found it tone-deaf and out of touch with true religion. For example, many criticize this show for casually using the Jewish term “Shiksa” as synonymous with attractive, blonde, non-religious women, when in reality, the term holds much deeper meaning and it is a very condemning title for a woman who disgraces Jewish culture. While some appreciate bringing religion to mainstream culture, others (sometimes those same people) have reported disappointment with the show’s lack of research and careless use of historically important Jewish labels.  

In addition to the flippant use of Jewish terms, viewers have been upset by the portrayal of Jewish women in a negative light. The main Jewish female characters are three opinionated and influential women: Tovah Feldshuh (Noah’s mother), Esther (Noah’s sister-in-law), and Rebecca (Noah’s ex-girlfriend). These women are very traditional and often overly critical and judgemental, constantly trying to control the lives of the people around them, especially their spouses. Many took issue with the fact that all the Jewish women in this show were portrayed as rigid, mean, controlling women while Joanne, her sister, and her mother (non-Jewish women) were fun and laid-back characters.

Nobody Wants This provides a charming, entertaining storyline but also one that holds a deeper analysis of modern religion and how it fits into adult relationships. While this was a controversial depiction of religion, it got people critically thinking while providing three and a half hours of happy, romantic episodes.