Netflix series Decoupled is a socially relevant Indian comedy

Decoupled is an Indian comedy series in the English language written by Manu Joseph and directed by Hardik Mehta. It follows the journey of a couple who wants divorce but lives under the same roof just because they can’t deliver the ‘bad news’ to their 12-year-old daughter.

The husband Arya Iyyer played by Madhavan is one of the bestselling authors in India. One of the most loved heroes in Indian cinema Madhavan plays a very different character in the series which is not so likeable by the audience. Arya is a person with total disregard for other people’s emotions ad says whatever he wants to say. The makers use this loveable chocolate hero to deliver very politically incorrect statements which would boil the blood of the audience. The wife Shruthi played by Surveen Chawla is a businesswoman who is independent, strong and often embarrassed by her husband’s actions.

The series also addresses social evils like class, caste etc. with a pinch of comedy. There is a dialogue in the series which shook me which is “Those people who do not know their caste always belong to the upper castes”. The scenes between Madhavan and his driver are hilarious. The scene in which Arya drives to his driver Ganesh’s village only because he hates parking was hysterical.

Good Aspects

The plot is surely thinking outside the box. Normally people view divorce as a bad thing and not a happy ending. The series promotes the idea that divorces can be a happy ending too if you decide it to be. The eloquent writing and excellent making have put this series into one of the best Indian comedies/dramas that I have ever watched. The shot in which Madhavan’s friend Agni enters was an excellent one. The background score is crucial in the series as it has elevated most of the scenes. All the actors including the child artist have done a brilliant job.

Bad Aspects

There were a few lame jokes in the series especially the ones which ended with “That’s called marriage”. Another thing I hated was when Madhavan observes a fair maid as a hot one and others as the ones with inner beauty.

I recommend to

Overall the series is an enjoyable comedy/drama with social relevance. And this might be the first time that we see Maddy in such a role. It was enjoyable watching him as a little bit of grey shade. I would recommend this series for those who enjoy comedies and socially relevant series.