Decoupled

Decoupled is an Indian comedy-drama series on Netflix, released in 2021. Spotlighting the intricacies and realities of modern relationships, the show is a humorous yet realistic depiction of marriage, presented through the lens of a mid-aged couple reconsidering their more than a decade-long relationship.

The story centers around Arya and Shruti, a married couple residing in the bustling city of New Delhi, India. Their relationship comes with the usual package - sweet memories, occasional squabbles, shared responsibilities, and individual ambitions. Throughout the series, as they question the longevity of their relationship, it advances from being just a relation between two people, into a commentary on the complexities of the modern social and cultural milieu.

The show’s lead character, Arya, is a commercially successful writer. His character is wonderfully layered, absorbed in his own world, and occasionally coming off as egotistical. He is a self-proclaimed "rational" person and constantly tries to apply logical reasoning to the chaotic world of relationships. His character’s complexity and charm contribute to the well-rounded appeal of the series.

On the other hand, is his wife, Shruti, a perfectionist who works in corporate banking. She is depicted as an individual who is constantly trying to balance between her professional commitments and personal life. The series gives substantial weight to the portrayal of her character, portraying the dilemmas and insecurities of a career-oriented woman.

What stands out about Decoupled is its fresh approach toward its central characters and their narrative. It refrains from portraying them as either completely right or wrong. It offers a nuanced depiction of their characters, allowing viewers to understand their perspectives and empathize with their dilemmas, thereby adding depth to the storytelling.

Another gripping aspect of the show is its comedic elements. The scripting of Decoupled is soaked in crisp, intelligent humor and plenty of tongue-in-cheek dialogues. The humorous back and forth and situational comedy play a significant role in making the show an engaging watch.

But Decoupled is not just about relationship struggles and witty lines. It also tackles several socio-cultural issues prevalent in Indian society, such as the obsession with appearances, the stigma around divorce, and the pressures of societal expectations. Simultaneously, it also presents a critique of the privileged class, touching upon topics like superficiality and hypocrisy in society.

In terms of its technical aspects, Decoupled exhibits commendable production quality. The show is shot across various picturesque locations, providing a visual treat to the audiences. The crisp editing and artistic cinematography contribute to the overall appeal and sophistication of the series. Additionally, engaging performances from the cast, with exceptional character development, make for an excellent viewing experience.

The supporting characters add another layer to the story with their wonderfully eclectic personalities, including a sassy teenager, peculiar neighbors, and enterprising personal assistants. They contribute to the various threads of the narrative, making the show more engrossing.

Altogether, the Netflix series, Decoupled, is a well-packaged show that skilfully combines drama and humor to portray modern relationships' dynamics and dilemmas. It does not shy away from exploring the tougher aspects of marriage. Still, it does so with a light touch, ensuring that the messages it delivers, while profound, don't weigh down the viewing experience.

Whether you are in a relationship yourself or just an observer of human interactions, Decoupled will undoubtedly offer you an interesting perspective on love, marriage, and the intricacies that come with them. This series will make you laugh, make you think and compel you to invest in the journeys of its lead characters. The sharp writing, clever humor, and relatable drama together make Decoupled a must-watch.