You’re supposed to fall in love with them… but you won’t!

I always look for movies and series that manage to capture that real connection between the characters, and that's exactly what makes Nobody Wants This such an unforgettable series. From the very first episode, the chemistry between Kristen Bell and Adam Brody is palpable. They play Joanne, an outspoken podcaster, and Noah, a rabbi, whose lives couldn't be more different. However, as they get to know each other, it’s possible to feel the spark between them, and that makes all the difference to the plot. The series manages to balance humor, drama and cultural differences very organically, making the protagonists' relationship completely believable.

When I compare this series with the movie Lonely Planet, the contrast is obvious. Lonely Planet had everything to be a romantic hit: a stunning setting in Morocco and a strong cast with Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth . However, what was supposed to be an engaging romance ends up being a forced relationship devoid of emotion. While in Nobody Wants This you find yourself rooting for the protagonists in every scene, in Lonely Planet the romance simply doesn't take off. The lack of chemistry between the actors is so striking that even the landscapes end up becoming more interesting than the development of the love plot.

Nobody Wants This subtly explores the differences between Joanne and Noah, especially when cultural and religious issues come into play. One memorable scene is when Joanne awkwardly offers a pork meal to Noah's Jewish family. Rather than treating the moment simply as a joke, the series turns it into an opportunity to explore the dynamics and challenges of an interreligious relationship, which adds a layer of depth to the story. In addition, the series knows exactly when to bring lightness and when to dive into the drama, which keeps the viewer engaged.

On the other hand, Lonely Planet tries to force a connection between Katherine, the writer on retreat, and Owen, the investor. Even at moments when the movie tries to create romantic tension, the lack of chemistry is evident. What should be an intense moment of connection turns out to be uninteresting, which is frustrating for anyone hoping to be captivated by a good love story.

I believe that what makes Nobody Wants This such an engaging series is precisely the way in which the relationship between Joanne and Noah is built up little by little, in an organic and nuanced way. It's not just about how opposites attract, but about how they learn to navigate their differences with humor and respect. The chemistry between Bell and Brody is simply magical, and that really helps when it comes to making their story so believable. Unlike Lonely Planet, in which the characters seem distant and disconnected, Nobody Wants This reminds us that a good dynamic between the protagonists can carry an entire plot on its back.

In the end, if you're looking for a romantic narrative that really captivates, Nobody Wants This is the perfect choice. The series not only shows the importance of chemistry between the characters, but also how a well-crafted script can turn everyday situations into profound and emotional moments. Unfortunately, this is something that Lonely Planet tries to achieve but fails to do so. Even with an enchanting setting and talented actors, the lack of chemistry between the protagonists leads the movie into a very forgettable place.