‘NEON’ (2023) Netflix Series Review - A Vibrant and Hilarious Journey into the World of Reggaeton

If you are looking for a fun and upbeat show to watch on Netflix, you might want to check out NEON, a comedy series about three friends who migrate from a small town in Florida to Miami to make it great in the reggaeton scene. The show chronicles not only their larger-than-life dreams but also the harsh realities and funny mishaps of surviving the music industry.

Reggaeton is one of the most popular musical genres in the world, originating from Puerto Rico and blending influences from hip-hop, Latin American music, and Caribbean rhythms. The show features a catchy soundtrack full of reggaeton tunes, some of them performed by the cast members themselves. The show is also executive produced by Daddy Yankee, one of the most influential and successful reggaeton artists of all time.

The show centers on Santi (Tyler Dean Flores), a budding artist who hopes to become the biggest reggaeton star in the world. He is accompanied by his best friends and collaborators: Ness (Emma Ferreira), his manager and childhood friend, who was the first one to spot his talent and who has a crush on him; and Felix (Jordan Mendoza), his creative director and hype man, who is always ready to support him with his quirky ideas and jokes.

In Miami, they meet Mia (Courtney Taylor), a record label executive who sees potential in Santi and offers him a deal. However, things are not as easy as they seem, as Santi and his friends have to face many challenges and obstacles along the way.

They have to deal with shady contracts, rival artists, media scandals, financial troubles, personal conflicts, and more. They also encounter various characters who either help them or hinder them in their journey.

The show is also very funny, thanks to the witty dialogue, the hilarious situations, and the great chemistry among the cast members. The show does not shy away from poking fun at itself and the clichés of the genre, such as the exaggerated lyrics, the flashy outfits, and the over-the-top performances. The show also features some memorable scenes that parody other famous shows and movies, such as Moonlight, The Godfather, and The Bachelor.

However, the show is not just a comedy. It also has some serious moments that explore the struggles and sacrifices that come with pursuing your dreams. The show portrays the realities of the music industry, such as exploitation, corruption, competition, and pressure. The show also touches on some social issues that affect the Latino community, such as racism, sexism, classism, and identity. The show does not sugarcoat these topics but rather presents them with honesty and nuance.

The show also celebrates the diversity and richness of Latino culture, showcasing different aspects of it through its characters, its music, its language, and its visuals. The show features actors from different backgrounds and countries, such as Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Venezuela, Colombia, Cuba, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, and more. The show also incorporates different dialects and slang words from these regions into its dialogue. The show also uses vibrant colors and stunning cinematography to capture the beauty and energy of Miami.

NEON is a show that offers something for everyone: comedy, drama, music, romance, action, and more. It is a show that will inspire you to follow your dreams, no matter how hard they seem. It is a show that will make you fall in love with reggaeton and its culture. It is a show that you should definitely watch on Netflix.

Final Score – [7/10]
Reviewed by - Arpita Mondal
Follow @ArpitaMond33387 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times