“Master of None” (2015 – 2021) 

Television

Twenty five Episodes

Created by: Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang

Featuring: Aziz Ansari, Eric Wareheim, Noël Wells, Lena Waithe, Kelvin Yu, Alessandra Mastronardi and Naomi Ackie

Dev: “You see The Social Network? Max Minghella plays an Indian guy. He’s white. They browned him up.”

Ravi: “No no, I read he’s one-sixteenth Indian.”

Dev: “Who cares? If you go back far enough we’re all one-sixteenth something. I’m probably one-sixteenth black. You think they’re gonna let me play Blade?”

“Master of None” is a critically acclaimed Netflix comedy-drama series created by Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang. The show follows Dev Shah (played by Ansari), a 30-something actor living in New York City, as he navigates his personal and professional life.

One of the standout features of “Master of None” is its sharp writing and astute observations about contemporary society, particularly with regard to issues of race, gender, and sexuality. The show also boasts a diverse and talented cast, including Ansari, Eric Wareheim, Lena Waithe, and Noël Wells, among others.

Another strength of the series is its unique visual style and storytelling approach, which frequently incorporates elements of magical realism and experimental filmmaking techniques. This helps to keep the show fresh and engaging, even as it tackles weighty themes and issues.

While “Master of None” has received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, performances, and innovative storytelling, some viewers have criticized the show for being too self-indulgent or navel-gazing. Additionally, the show’s handling of sensitive issues like sexual harassment and consent has generated controversy and debate. “Master of None” is a smart, funny, and thought-provoking series that is well worth watching for anyone who enjoys sharp writing, nuanced performances, and innovative storytelling.

The show’s first season explores themes such as dating, career, and race in a witty and heartfelt manner, while the second season takes a more cinematic approach, with each episode functioning more like a self-contained short film. The second season also delves deeper into Dev’s personal life, including his family and romantic relationships.

One of the most notable episodes of the series is “Thanksgiving,” which follows Dev’s friend Denise (played by Lena Waithe) and her family over several Thanksgiving dinners throughout the years. The episode provides a nuanced and moving portrayal of Denise’s journey as a queer Black woman coming out to her family, and it was widely praised for its groundbreaking representation.

In addition to its exploration of social issues, “Master of None” also excels in its comedic moments, with Ansari’s quick wit and comedic timing shining throughout the series. The show also features a memorable soundtrack that incorporates a diverse range of musical genres and artists.

In addition to its exploration of social issues, “Master of None” also excels in its depiction of modern relationships, particularly in the way it portrays the challenges and complexities of dating in the digital age. The show’s second season, in particular, features several episodes that examine the highs and lows of romantic relationships, including the episode “First Date,” which follows Dev through a series of disastrous dates with different women.

The show also features a strong supporting cast, including Eric Wareheim as Dev’s best friend Arnold and Noël Wells as his on-again, off-again girlfriend Rachel. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, and the show’s strong ensemble performances help to make the characters feel real and relatable.

Despite its critical acclaim, “Master of None” has not been without controversy. In 2018, Ansari was accused of sexual misconduct by a woman he had gone on a date with. While Ansari apologized for any behavior that had made his date uncomfortable, the incident sparked a wider conversation about consent and boundaries in dating, and led to some criticism of the show’s portrayal of relationships.

“Master of None” is a smart, engaging, and often hilarious show that stands as a testament to the power of innovative storytelling and thoughtful social commentary. While its future remains uncertain, the existing two seasons are well worth watching for anyone who enjoys insightful and entertaining television.

In addition to its exploration of social and romantic issues, “Master of None” also offers a unique perspective on the immigrant experience, with Dev’s Indian background frequently playing a role in the show’s storylines. The show’s second season features several episodes that examine Dev’s relationship with his family, including “Religion,” which explores Dev’s complicated relationship with his Muslim upbringing.

The show’s innovative storytelling approach also extends to its use of guest stars, with several notable actors and comedians appearing in memorable roles throughout the series. Angela Bassett, John Legend, and Claire Danes are just a few of the famous faces that have made appearances on “Master of None.”

Despite its accolades and critical success, “Master of None” remains a somewhat niche show, with its particular brand of humor and social commentary not necessarily appealing to all viewers. However, for those who appreciate the show’s unique style and perspective, it is a must-watch series that stands out as one of the most innovative and thoughtful shows of recent years.

“Master of None” is a show that deftly combines sharp social commentary, innovative storytelling, and engaging performances to create a truly unique viewing experience. While its future remains uncertain, the existing two seasons stand as a testament to the show’s artistry and cultural significance, and are well worth watching for anyone who values insightful and entertaining television.

Episodes

Season One

Plan B: A condom mishap and a kid’s birthday party prompt Dev to consider the reality of having children.

Parents: Dev and Brian try to show their appreciation for their immigrant parents at a joint family dinner.

Hot Ticket: Dev’s plan to score a date with a pretty waitress by inviting her to a concert doesn’t have quite the result he wanted.

Indians on TV: Frustrated with the limited availability of roles and frequent type-casting of Indian actors, Dev has to make an ethical decision about the future of his career when he gets his hands on a TV executives racist emails.

The Other Man: Dev has the chance to hook up with a woman he meets at a party, but the opportunity comes with a few complications.

Nashville: Rachel has finally broken up with her ex-boyfriend, so Dev decides to invite her to a trip to Nashville.

Ladies and Gentlemen: Dev’s new advertisement doesn’t go as planned and his female entourage tells him about the misogyny they face every day.

Old People: Dev and Arnold hang-out with Arnold’s Grandpa, who tells them a cool war story (and Arnold becomes very attached to his Grandpa’s robotic seal). This inspires Dev to stick around when he and Rachel visit Grandma Carol at her retirement home and Rachel has to leave mid-visit.

Mornings: Rachel moves in with Dev and they start having relationship issues.

Finale: After attending a wedding and a disappointing film premiere, Rachel and Dev are both having doubts about their relationship.

Season Two

The Thief: Now living in Modena, Dev serendipitously meets a girl who he makes a real connection with only to have his future date plans go array when a thief steals his mobile phone.

Le Nozze: Arnold stops by on his way to a wedding to explore Modena with his Little Bud. But he hasn’t told Dev the whole truth about his trip.

Religion: Back in New York, a visit from observant Muslim relatives puts Dev in a tricky position. He introduces his cousin to a forbidden pleasure: pork.

First Date: Sucked into a popular dating app, Dev winds up on a string of awkward, fun and disorienting dates with very different women.

The Dinner Party: After welcoming the Jabbawockeez to his show, Dev struggles to find the right date to take to a dinner party thrown by his celebrity chef boss.

New York, I Love You: As Dev and friends head to a theater to see the hit movie “Death Castle,” the lives of several ordinary New Yorkers intersect in subtle ways.

Door #3: A sweet job offer forces Dev to take stock of his priorities. Brian helps his dad with a romantic dilemma. A cupcake competition judge gets cold feet.

Thanksgiving: Over a series of Thanksgivings from the ’90s to the present, Denise settles into her sexuality and faces the challenge of coming out to her family.

Amarsi Un Pò: When Francesca returns to New York for a month, Dev plays tour guide and finds himself caught in a whirlwind of confusing emotions.

Buona Notte: Just as Dev’s personal life reaches a tipping point, disturbing revelations throw his professional life into turmoil, too.

Season Three

Moments in Love, Chapter 1: Now a bestselling author, Denise leads a quiet life with her wife, Alicia, in upstate New York. But dinner with another couple leads to bigger questions.

Moments in Love, Chapter 2: As the mood in the house grows more strained, Alicia leaves town for an antique fair.

Moments in Love, Chapter 3: Facing a wave of major changes in her life, Denise wrestles with feelings of guilt and failure.

Moments in Love, Chapter 4: Alicia turns to a fertility clinic for help and soon finds herself on a physical, emotional and financial odyssey.

Moments in Love, Chapter 5: A trip upstate leads to reflections on the past and present.