Director: Sreejith
Cast: Nithya Menen, Sharaf U Dheen, Renji Panicker, Malaa Parvathi, Ashokan, Shanthi Krishna
Streaming on: Disney+ Hotstar
Duration: 5 episodes
Masterpeace Review: A Quirky Aesthetic with Some Hidden Gems in Character Depth
In the five-episode series “Masterpeace,” director Sreejith not only takes charge of the storytelling but also showcases his prowess as a production designer. Much like how a film by a cinematographer often stands out visually, “Masterpeace” pays meticulous attention to set design. The story primarily unfolds within the confines of an upscale Kochi apartment, and the vibrant and quirky aesthetic keeps viewers engaged, preventing monotony. The use of bright colors, especially shades of yellow, orange, and red, permeates the show, and even the background details are so meticulously designed that they sometimes overshadow the scene itself.
However, crafting a series with an overtly eccentric Wes Andersonesque look presents its challenges. To keep the audience invested in the characters rather than getting lost in the aesthetics requires skilled writing. “Masterpeace” manages to strike a balance between its unique visual style and storytelling. The series is narrated by the Mona Lisa, which adds an unusual but intriguing layer to the narrative. Characters occasionally break the fourth wall, seamlessly switching between Italian and Malayalam, enhancing the quirkiness.
The central plot is refreshingly simple: a couple’s argument prompts their parents to intervene in an attempt to resolve the issue. The show skillfully subverts the conventional themes found in love stories, exploring how marriage has evolved over time. Instead of portraying the older generation as ideal lovers or the younger generation as naive, “Masterpeace” delves into the complexities of modern relationships. The series examines unconventional decisions, such as a couple’s choice to remain childless, leading to engaging and heated arguments that provide insights into the characters.
Despite its unique approach, “Masterpeace” struggles to maintain audience engagement due to the repetitive nature of arguments. The stakes in the main conflict don’t feel high enough to justify the family’s involvement, and serious scenes are often presented with humor, diminishing their impact. While the senior characters exhibit organic character development, the younger couple sometimes comes across as contrived. The humor at times relies on clichés, failing to deliver original laughs or tension.
In the midst of the chaos, “Masterpeace” shines in its moments of subtlety. The interactions between the parents, who unexpectedly find companionship and understanding in each other, provide some of the show’s best scenes. However, these moments of depth are overshadowed by the overall loud and repetitive tone.
In the end, “Masterpeace” offers a visually striking and unique experience but could benefit from more moments of silence and subtlety.
