Most Beautiful Thing

Most Beautiful Thing is an engrossing Brazilian drama series on Netflix set in the late 1950s. It premiered on Netflix Brazil in March 2019 and has since accumulated followers globally. The series takes us to a time of sweeping cultural and socio-political change, teeming with romance, music, and vibrant energy—the 1950s Rio de Janeiro. The two-season show, with twenty episodes in total, caters to audiences that are inclined towards historical dramas and love stories, laced with societal subject matter and complexities.

In the heart of the show is a young and ambitious woman, Maria Luiza, affectionately known as 'Malu.' The series commences with Malu shifting from the conservative São Paulo to the enlivened setting of Rio de Janeiro, accompanying her husband Pedro to open a restaurant. However, her plan to start a new life takes a sudden and unexpected twist when Pedro disappears with all their money, after which, her life takes an unprecedented turn. The initial shock and despair pave the way for the emergence of a strong-willed woman, daring to break the conventions of her time.

With Pedro's betrayal as a starting point, Maria Luiza begins to overcome the gender stereotypes prevalent during the era and becomes instrumental in setting the stage for the awakening of female independence. The transition of an upper-middle-class housewife into a staunch, independent businesswoman, who opens her very own music club, forms the crux of the story. The show brilliantly elucidates an emotional journey of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment, which is inspiring in its own right.

As the story progresses, the series impeccably glorifies the bossa nova music scene—a fusion of samba and jazz—that was gaining popularity in Rio during the 1950s. The music not only serves as the backdrop to the narrative but also adds an artistic authenticity to the show. Indeed, the show is alive with the pulsating rhythm of bossa nova and captures the spirit of Rio de Janeiro as a city of music, dance, and vivacious culture.

The series is also an exploration of love—love lost and love found—along with the tumult of emotional experiences that accompanies it. Conflicts and resolutions, friendships and antagonisms, all blend seamlessly to produce a story that is compellingly relatable. However, Most Beautiful Thing does not merely indulge in replaying the romantic tropes; instead, it exhibits deep layers of relationships and the interpersonal dynamics that change as characters evolve over the series' duration.

While the show revolves around Malu's life and struggles, it also incorporates the stories of her diverse and relatable group of friends—adventurous Lígia, practical-minded Thereza, and tender-hearted Adélia. Each trying to find their own voice in the grapple against societal norms, their intertwined stories further reflect the nuanced character of the show, adding flavor to the narrative and bringing forth the many shades of female strength and courage. Their alliance goes beyond their socio-economic differences, forming a heartfelt bond that adds further depth and richness to the plot.

The series is resplendent with stunning cinematography, capturing the elegance and charisma of 1950s Rio de Janeiro with panoramic city scenes, sun-kissed beaches, and quaint street life. The vintage costumes, sets, and props add further authenticity, creating a visually enjoyable experience.

In terms of thematic treatment, Most Beautiful Thing does not shy away from addressing poignant social issues of the time, like racial discrimination, gender inequality, and class divide, giving the show an added layer of depth and lending it a sociopolitical undertone. While these themes could be heavy, the narrative is interspersed with light-hearted moments and funny exchanges, maintaining a fine balance between drama, romance, and humor.

While it takes place in a historical context, the issues broached by the series remain sadly relevant today, providing viewers with a historic perspective and provoking thought and reflection.

In conclusion, Most Beautiful Thing is an enigmatic blend of history, culture, music, romance, and feminism. The complex and nuanced narrative, empowered characters, picturesque settings, and melodic bossa nova beats create a truly invigorating TV viewing experience. It is a tribute to the emergence of a new womanhood in the midst of a society on the cusp of a cultural shift, narrated brilliantly through the lens of 1950s Rio de Janeiro.