Dating Around

Dating Around is a captivating and affable American reality dating television series that debuted on Netflix on Valentine's Day in 2019. Produced by Chris Culvenor, the series is a must-watch for reality TV devotees and numerous audiences who enjoy exploring the mind-boggling world of contemporary dating.

The creative premise of Dating Around is simple, realistic, and consummately presented. Each episode is centred around a single person who is sent on five blind dates. As the name suggests, it is essentially someone dating around in search of compatibility and possibly a companion. The protagonist sits down with five different candidates for a bite to eat, some light-hearted conversation, and the anticipated awkward moments. In production, the dates are then seamlessly edited and presented in a way that they appear to be happening at the same time. A compelling build-up to its climax, viewers are left guessing until the final moments as to which date will culminate in a second date.

One of the reasons why Dating Around offers a unique viewing experience is its wide-ranging inclusivity and diversity in casting. The show's protagonists come from various ages, races, social backgrounds, and sexual orientations, which contributes to the show's expansive appeal. The date-goers, reciprocating this diversity, have equally distinctive professions and interests. From real estate brokers, make-up artists, university professors, interior decorators to executive assistants, the assortment is refreshingly wide.

As the episodes progress, the narratives take the viewers on a journey that encompasses a gamut of emotions—anticipation, joy, frustration, embarrassment, and relief, a realism that only enhances the relatability of the show. The audience witnesses the daters grappling with first date jitters, the excitement of a burgeoning connection, or the sinking feeling when there is no chemistry. These narratives seamlessly convey that dating is not a 'one-size-fits-all' phenomenon but a deeply personalised journey defined by the chemistry, compatibility, and shared interests between two people.

Another avant-garde aspect of Dating Around is its intentional departure from the conventional, over-dramatised reality dating shows. It shies away from verbal fights, tear-filled confrontations, or manufactured drama. Instead, it amplifies the authenticity of the dating process and showcases unpretentious interactions that are both heartwarming and heartrending, underlining the daily realities and challenges faced by people seeking a partner.

A key strength of Dating Around lies in its pacing. It doesn't rush things. It takes viewers comfortably through the real-life, no-nonsense nuances of modern dating, making it seem as if they are seated right there in between the daters. Its incorporation of multiple perspectives helps the viewers form well-rounded opinions about each pair's compatibility, enabling them to anticipate whom the protagonist may select for a second date.

Yet, despite the show's confident representation of dating diversity, it does not try to hard-sell the idea of love or relationships. Instead, its approach is more laissez-faire, allowing the audience to appreciate the dating interaction as an experience, rather than a means to an end.

The set, mostly night-time New Orleans and New York City, rife with cosy ambience, further entices the viewers, reflecting the authenticity and elegance that the show aims to offer. Whether it’s a low-lit, atmospheric bar, a classically charming restaurant, or a candlelit cocktails space, these locations add another layer of realism to the series.

In summation, Dating Around offers a unique and engrossing take on the world of modern dating. It is a masterful blend of authenticity, diversity, style, substance, and relatability wrapped in a harmonious visual presentation. Whether you're actively dating, in a relationship, or just intrigued by the complications and fascinations of the contemporary dating scene, Dating Around promises an engaging and insightful watch.