Neon: A Vibrant & Fun Celebration of Reggaeton - A Review

Summary

Neon celebrates Latino culture and reggaeton with style, featuring infectious performances and music that will make you want to dance.

The series tracks Santi and his companions as they navigate the music industry, overcoming challenges and steadfastly pursuing their aspirations. Neon, while concentrating on the entertainment realm, does not unveil any revolutionary revelations. However, it presents captivating characters, superb performances, and exceptional music, making it an engaging viewing experience.

Celebrate Latino culture and reggaeton with a touch of effervescence and style by watching Neon, the latest comedy series on Netflix. Co-created by Shea Serrano and Max Searle, who also serves as the showrunner, this captivating story follows the journey of a young Puerto Rican with dreams of making it big in the reggaeton scene. Armed with raw talent, infectious charm, and unwavering perseverance, our protagonist takes center stage in this eight-episode series, each packed with excitement, electrifying performances, and irresistible music that will have you dancing along.

Featuring an incredibly talented cast including Tyler Dean Flores, Emma Ferreira, Jordan Mendoza, and Courtney Taylor, Neon is a must-watch series that showcases exceptional young talent, offers a feast of cool music, and serves up tantalizing storylines that will keep you glued to your screen.

Join Santi (Tyler Dean Flores), an aspiring reggaeton artist, as he embarks on a journey from hustling in a small-town Florida to chasing success in the vibrant city of Miami. Along for the ride are his loyal friends, Vanessa "Ness" (Emma Ferreira), serving as his music manager, and Felix (Jordan Mendoza), an aspiring artistic director and social media manager. Throughout the series, the trio encounters both allies and adversaries in the entertainment industry, facing numerous obstacles that test the bonds of their friendship on their path to fame. However, when it truly matters, they stand united, supporting each other to pursue their dreams.

Neon provides an intimate look into the music industry, exposing the determination necessary to achieve fame. While it may not always present a realistic portrayal of the growing influence of online fame compared to traditional methods, the narrative effectively critiques the various personas of Hollywood that resonate with viewers. Santi's journey to stardom tests his relationships, artistic integrity, the idea of selling out, and his rivalry with Javier (Jhayco), a prosperous reggaeton star who aspires to pursue magic. Despite having a smaller role, Javier serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself, a struggle that Santi consistently grapples with throughout the series.

As the episodes progress, Santi, Ness, and Felix capitalize on small opportunities, transforming them into significant breakthroughs. This serves as a valuable lesson for those with dreams, as it demonstrates that success is not simply handed to them. This injection of realism in a show centered around stardom is rare but greatly appreciated, as it allows us to connect with the characters on a deeper level. In contrast, Mia, portrayed by Courtney Taylor, must actively create every opportunity for herself, showcasing a contrasting narrative. While Neon does not shy away from highlighting Mia's journey in a subtle manner, it imparts a crucial message about the diverse experiences individuals face when it comes to opportunities.

Tyler Dean Flores and Genesis Rodriguez in Neon

Content

Despite its serious moments and meaningful interactions between Santi, Ness, and Felix, the comedy aspect of the series is always present. Just when you think it may lose its momentum, the show takes a delightful turn and ramps up the humor. In one of the later episodes, Isa (played by Genesis Rodriguez), a renowned pop star with a long-standing career in the industry, is introduced. Desperate to maintain her fame, she teams up with Santi in numerous ways to rebrand herself and embrace her Latina heritage. Rodriguez's performance in Neon is nothing short of hilarious, as she effortlessly steals the spotlight in every scene.

It goes without saying that, in a series centered around the music and entertainment industry, the music should be exceptional. Thankfully, Neon delivers on that front, with its music being the standout aspect of the show. The pride of reggaeton music and Latino culture permeates throughout each episode, creating the ultimate highlight. The music is so vibrant and captivating that it will have you itching to dance whenever you hear that mesmerizing reggaeton beat. So, if nothing else, Neon is definitely worth watching for the pure enjoyment of its incredible music.

Neon on Netflix is an entertaining and lively tale that encapsulates the struggles and determination to achieve dreams. With superb performances and an outstanding soundtrack, it captivates viewers. While it may not divulge any groundbreaking insights into Hollywood's climb to success, the story and characters remain compelling, making this engaging eight-episode series worth watching. Although it may leave a few unanswered questions, Neon's lack of need for a second season is a positive aspect for those seeking a quick and enjoyable weekend binge. Moreover, the show offers the opportunity to groove to amazing music and embrace laughter throughout.