‘Real Men’ (2025) Netflix Series Review - A Lighthearted Dive into Modern Masculinity

Netflix's Real Men (Maschi Veri) is a humorous Italian comedy about four middle-aged friends as they deal with the shift in masculinity in modern culture. Set in the lovely city of Rome, the novel delves into what it means to be a man in the twenty-first century with wisdom and humor.

Mattia, Massimo, Riccardo, and Luigi, boyhood closest friends, are the focus of the narrative.  Now in their forties, they must navigate the intricacies of modern relationships, the changing historical meaning of gender, and the problems of managing their identities in a culture that has shifted away from traditional expectations.  Each character has a unique perspective: Mattia is the philosophical thinker; Massimo is the ambitious dreamer who values work; Riccardo is the hopeless romantic; and Luigi is the family-oriented individual attempting to put everything together.

One of the show's most notable features is its ability to combine comedy with serious moments of self-reflection. The humor is both sharp and situational, originating mostly from the characters' struggles to adapt to conventional expectations. The events depicted are not only hilarious but also pertinent, touching on subjects like parenting classes, sharing a therapy session, and the benefits and drawbacks of internet dating.

In terms of visual depiction, Real Men successfully interact with the Roman landscape. The renowned architecture, historical monuments, and lovely neighborhoods do more than simply provide a background for the plot; they also help to ground the characters and their stories in reality.  The cinematography captures the spirit of Rome, honoring its once-glorious architectural past but also highlighting the protagonist characters' very genuine modern hardships.

In its delivery, however, the series does falter. At times, the comedy feels cliché, and aspects of its arcs feel a bit predictable. Some episodes feel like they would benefit from quicker pacing, with specific scenes sometimes moving beyond the necessary content to make a point, risking their efficacy altogether. Additionally, while this series is meant to interrogate the established notions of masculinity and maleness, at a couple of points it finds itself perpetuating its own stereotypes.

In spite of these slight imperfections, Real Men effectively sparks significant discussions regarding identity, vulnerability, and the changing concept of manhood. It prompts viewers to consider their own viewpoints and fosters a broader comprehension of gender roles. The series’ skill in addressing these themes without being preachy or overly instructional is a reflection of its insightful writing and direction.

Overall, Real Men presents a humorous and fresh insight into the complexities of contemporary masculinity. The interplay of humor and social critique creates a fun viewing experience for those who enjoy stories about characters that reflect contemporary societal changes. While it will not change the genre, it does present a valuable and entertaining investigation into what it means to be a man in the modern world.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times