Master of None, a new series created by Aziz Ansari and Alan Yang, does what most television does not do today—cater to the audience’s preference for binging. Although Master of None is on Netflix, dropping all ten episodes on November 6th, a driving narrative does not propel audiences further. Instead, the show takes more comedic risks, as Ansari explores his new role as a creator, writer, and director of a TV series.
Master of None does use a cast of characters we get to know better throughout the season, and the main character Dev’s questions regarding relationships is an arc throughout. However, since every episode is themed, it can stand alone. Each tackles various topics as indicated by the flashing titles on the opening screen: “Parents,” “Old People,” or “Indians on TV.” Thus, the show lends itself best to traditional pacing versus the full-on binge, allowing us to mull over dialogue and themes—something our instant gratification culture often avoids today (I might have devoured them all in one day anyway).
