(Credits: Netflix)

Mature romantic relationships seem to have become a myth on shows. Most often, these relationships are frazzled under the weight of unnecessary complications that could easily be avoided or solved simply through communication. And while sometimes such situations do genuinely arise in any partnership, the constant portrayal of adult relationships in such a manner can be demotivating to watch. But in a refreshing turn of events, Nobody Wants This portrays a relationship that does not have you screaming at your screen in frustration.

Created by Erin Foster, Nobody Wants This stars Kristen Bell and Adam Brody as the leads. Bell plays the role of Joanne, an agnostic woman with a podcast with her sister about sex, love and relationships. Brody takes up the role of Noah, an unconventional rabbi, and the ensuing plot follows the two leads getting together and how they navigate the various ups and downs of their relationship. Complications arise around the themes of past loves, religion, and family. Yet, somehow, the show manages to keep hold of its audience and not bore them with the regular impediments and preachy sentiments. 

There are plenty of familiar tropes and stereotypical characters thrown into the mix, but it’s the female gaze that makes these aspects not only digestible but also, to an extent, likeable. These conventional narratives are embodied by a sense of maturity when seen through the lens of the female gaze. The show shines a refreshing light on the adjustments that need to be made in a relationship to make it work. Both Joanne and Noah make compromises to their lives to adjust to the other’s, not because they are not fine by themselves, but because they want the other to be too. 

Usually, a career-oriented, outspoken female character starts off as unlikeable and is easily moulded into the likes of her male counterpart by the end. But Foster brings an essential emotional sensibility to Bell’s character, which depletes the not-like-other-girls energy. Joanne stands her ground when she meets Noah and his family. While she does attempt to get his family and friends to warm up to her, it is not with the purpose of bettering herself, nor is it an indication of any lack in her. Rather, the female gaze here puts it across that these attempts are to better integrate herself into Noah’s life. 

When the latter’s mother berates her podcast, she does not go down a spiral of self-doubt, nor does she react abrasively. Instead, she understands that she does not need to constantly one-up or prove her worth to his mother. Joanne’s trust and confidence in their relationship also shine through when her sister is dismissive of it. Morgan, who is fearful of Joanne losing herself to Noah, attempts to put her down by saying that she has lost interest in her career and her focus in life. Instead of being swayed by this, she balances the contradictions of her career and relationship and shows up for both. 

Noah fits perfectly into the man-written-by-woman trope—he is sensitive and understanding and does not let his ego dictate his life and relationships. He wants to introduce Joanne to Judaism because it is an important part of his life and identity, not because she lacks something without it. He also makes the effort to befriend her sister, showing that he understands her importance in Joanne’s life as well.

The two of them work together to be honest and transparent, establishing a high standard of maturity and respect in their relationship. They help each other out while adjusting and adapting to different parts of their lives. Noah does not force his religion on Joanne and wants her to only be a part of it if she wants to, whereas Joanne, even being an agnostic, does not mock or criticise his close connection with his religion. Both of them build an empathetic understanding of the quirks of each other’s lives and strive to sustain a companionship that is healthy and nurturing. 

The female gaze is most pronounced through these storytelling choices. The emotional labour is not pushed solely on the woman, and the man’s career is not denoted as the only one of importance. There’s an equitable amount of push and pull on both sides to keep their relationship gears turning smoothly, and that is the most refreshing thing.