Plot: A Relatable Teenage Rollercoaster

At its core, Never Have I Ever is a coming-of-age comedy that doesn’t shy away from heavier emotions. The story starts with Devi Vishwakumar (played by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) dealing with the sudden loss of her father while trying to reboot her social life. Devi wants to ditch her “nerdy, awkward girl” persona and become one of the “cool kids” at Sherman Oaks High School.

But life’s not that simple. Devi has to juggle her strict Indian mom, her friends, and her overwhelming emotions, all while dealing with her crushes (yes, plural) and her own impulsive decisions. The plot weaves these elements together effortlessly, keeping it both entertaining and heartfelt.

Story Without Spoilers: Messy Yet Heartfelt

What’s great about Never Have I Ever is its ability to tell a deeply personal story without losing its humor. Devi’s struggles with grief are portrayed with sensitivity, but they’re never overbearing. The humor is quick, sharp, and very relatable, especially for Desi teens who’ve grown up caught between two cultures.

The series is narrated by none other than tennis legend John McEnroe, which adds a quirky touch. It’s a bit random but works surprisingly well, as his sarcastic and dramatic commentary mirrors Devi’s chaotic energy. The story dives into her friendships, her chaotic family life, and her quest for love, all while exploring identity, grief, and self-acceptance.

Main Characters: A Vibrant Ensemble

The characters are the heart and soul of the show. Let’s talk about the leads:

• Devi Vishwakumar (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan): Devi is the definition of chaotic good. She’s ambitious, impulsive, and painfully awkward in the best way. Maitreyi Ramakrishnan nails the role, making Devi both frustrating and endearing.

• Nalini Vishwakumar (Poorna Jagannathan): Devi’s mom, Nalini, is strict but loving. Poorna Jagannathan brings depth to a character that could’ve easily been a stereotype, showing the complexity of being a single parent in a foreign country.

• Ben Gross (Jaren Lewison): Ben is Devi’s academic rival-turned-frenemy-turned-maybe-something-more. His banter with Devi is one of the show’s highlights, and Jaren Lewison plays him with just the right mix of arrogance and vulnerability.

• Paxton Hall-Yoshida (Darren Barnet): The quintessential high school heartthrob, Paxton, is more than just a pretty face. Darren Barnet’s portrayal adds layers to what could’ve been a cliché character.

• Eleanor (Ramona Young) and Fabiola (Lee Rodriguez): Devi’s best friends, Eleanor and Fabiola, are the ultimate ride-or-die duo. They bring their own quirks to the table, from Eleanor’s dramatic flair to Fabiola’s robotics geek persona.

Positives: What Works Like a Charm

The biggest win for Never Have I Ever is its authentic representation. It’s rare to see a show that portrays South Asian culture without turning it into a caricature. From Devi’s heated arguments with her mom to awkward moments at Ganesh Puja, everything feels real and relatable.

The humor is another strong point. It’s sharp, self-aware, and full of hilarious one-liners. Mindy Kaling’s writing shines through, capturing the chaos of teenage life in a way that feels fresh and modern.

The performances are stellar across the board. Maitreyi Ramakrishnan is a revelation, carrying the show with her charisma and comedic timing. The supporting cast is equally impressive, adding depth to the story and making every subplot engaging.

Negatives: What Could’ve Been Better

While the show excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. One common critique is Devi’s character. Her impulsiveness and selfishness can sometimes make her hard to root for. While that’s part of what makes her realistic, it might be frustrating for viewers who prefer more likable protagonists.

Another issue is the pacing. At times, the show tries to juggle too many subplots, which can make some storylines feel rushed or underdeveloped.

What’s Likable: Humor, Representation, and Drama

The show’s biggest strength is its relatability. Whether you’re a teenager or someone who’s been through those awkward years, Devi’s experiences will resonate with you. The mix of humor and drama keeps things engaging, and the Desi representation is a huge plus.

The romance arcs are also well-executed, offering plenty of swoon-worthy moments without overshadowing the main plot. The friendship dynamics, especially between Devi, Eleanor, and Fabiola, are another highlight, showcasing the ups and downs of being a teenager.

What’s Not So Likable: Devi’s Chaos and Some Clichés

While Devi’s chaotic energy is part of her charm, it can also be exhausting. Her tendency to make poor decisions might leave you shaking your head at times.

Some aspects of the show also feel a bit predictable, especially when it comes to the love triangle. While it’s entertaining, it doesn’t bring anything particularly new to the table.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Teen Drama Fans

Never Have I Ever is a fresh, funny, and heartfelt series that brings something new to the teen drama genre. Its portrayal of South Asian culture, combined with its sharp humor and relatable characters, makes it stand out in a sea of high school-centric shows.

It’s not perfect, but its imperfections make it all the more real. Devi’s journey is messy, chaotic, and full of missteps, but that’s what makes her story so compelling. If you’re looking for a show that’ll make you laugh, cry, and maybe even cringe a little, this one’s for you.

So grab your snacks, settle in, and let Devi Vishwakumar take you on a wild ride through her teenage drama. You won’t regret it.

Never Have I Ever proves that growing up isn’t easy, but it’s a whole lot of fun to watch.