Netflix’s Mismatched returns for a third season, and while it ambitiously tackles deeper, socially relevant themes, the show struggles to balance its storytelling with the maturity demanded by its narrative.
Starring Rohit Saraf and Prajakta Koli as Rishi and Dimple, this season explores their long-distance relationship alongside complex issues such as gender dysphoria, personal loss, and the role of technology in human connection.
The Story So Far
This season shifts its setting from Jaipur to Hyderabad, where Rishi and several characters work on an alternate virtual reality project called Betterverse.
Their long-distance relationship becomes a metaphor for the disconnect between reality and the virtual world. Dimple grapples with rejection from her dream institute, while Rishi urges her to bridge the gap, geographically and emotionally.
The narrative also expands to include new characters and subplots. These include a queer hacker, Rith, who uses the Betterverse to reconcile with their gender identity, and a character using AI to communicate with their deceased father.
Themes like work-life balance, grief, and the fallout of “cancel culture” layer the romantic drama with thought-provoking dimensions.
What Works
- Mature Themes: The show evolves from its light-hearted origins to explore nuanced topics like body positivity, childhood trauma, and gender dysphoria.
- These themes feel relevant and timely, thanks to a writers’ room led by Gazal Dhaliwal, known for telling queer-coded stories.
- Supporting Characters: The inclusion of well-rounded supporting roles breathes life into the series. Anmol (Taaruk Raina) stands out with his arc of redemption, making a case for second chances.
- The mature love story between Siddharth (Rannvijay Singha) and Zeenat (Vidya Malvade) offers a refreshing perspective, grounded in life experience.
- Integration of Tech and Relationships: By weaving Betterverse into the emotional conflicts, Mismatched highlights the impact of technology on love, identity, and loss. It reflects how personal insecurities are magnified in a hyper-digital world.
What Doesn’t Work
- Inconsistent Performances: While Rohit Saraf and Prajakta Koli are charming, their portrayal of emotional depth often falls short. The lack of a cohesive directorial vision compounds the issue, leaving the performances uneven.
- Overcrowded Narrative: The show’s attempt to address numerous social issues feels overwhelming. While the inclusivity is commendable, the storytelling sacrifices depth for breadth, leaving some arcs underexplored.
- Tone Displacement: The dramatic shift in setting from Jaipur to Hyderabad, coupled with heavier themes, creates a sense of disconnection from the show’s original tone. This season feels like a reboot rather than a continuation.
Verdict
Mismatched Season 3 ambitiously tackles the complexities of young adulthood, using tech and societal issues as a mirror to its characters’ struggles.
However, its lofty themes often outpace the show’s ability to deliver impactful performances and cohesive direction. While fans of the series will appreciate its evolution, the lack of emotional resonance might leave some viewers yearning for the simplicity and charm of earlier seasons.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
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#MismatchedSeason3 #Netflix #RohitSaraf #PrajaktaKoli #Betterverse