Dealbreakers, The List Is Long is an original series created by CrackArts and produced by Courtney Rackley, which is available to stream on Amazon Prime. The show offers a unique twist on the typical dating game, drawing attention to the ways in which our individual preferences and prejudices can impact our relationships.
The premise of the show is relatively straightforward. Each episode features a single contestant (male or female) who has drawn up a list of 10 absolute "dealbreakers" - that is, traits or behaviors in a potential partner that are non-negotiable. These can range from the superficial (e.g. must have blonde hair) to the more serious (e.g. must be a non-smoker). The contestant then meets a series of potential partners who are tasked with convincing them that their dealbreakers are worth overlooking in order to pursue a relationship.
What sets Dealbreakers apart from traditional dating shows is the way it foregrounds the inherent subjectivity of attraction. While most dating shows rely on a set of agreed-upon metrics (physical appearance, social skills, sense of humor) to determine compatibility, Dealbreakers emphasizes that what one person finds endearing can be a huge turn-off to someone else. Moreover, it acknowledges that our "dealbreakers" are often rooted in deeply-held beliefs and values that are not necessarily logical or fair.
As such, the show presents a fascinating microcosm of contemporary dating culture. Viewers are given insight into the often-complicated calculus that goes into choosing a partner, as well as the psychological and emotional baggage we all bring to the table. It's also refreshing to see a show that doesn't pretend that love is blind - instead, Dealbreakers takes seriously the idea that attraction is a messy, contradictory, and often inexplicable phenomenon.
But the show's real strength lies in its contestants. Each person who appears on the show has a unique set of dealbreakers, and watching them navigate the complicated waters of attraction is both entertaining and illuminating. Some contestants are overly rigid in their requirements, rejecting perfectly good partners for minor infractions. Others display a refreshing openness to new experiences, even if they don't fit neatly into their preconceived notions of what a partner should be.
The potential partners are equally compelling, if often frustrating. Some are clearly mismatched with the contestant, either because of a fundamental difference in values or because their dealbreakers are simply too different to negotiate. Others are a better fit, but are forced to confront their own biases and assumptions in order to pursue the relationship.
All of this is presented in a slick, well-produced package, with plenty of snappy editing and clever music choices to keep things moving along. The show's creators clearly have a strong sense of pacing and tone, and manage to strike a balance between humor and pathos without ever becoming maudlin.
There are, of course, a few drawbacks to the show. Some viewers may find the very idea of "dealbreakers" off-putting or shallow, and there is a danger that the show could reinforce harmful stereotypes or prejudices (for example, if a contestant refuses to date people of a certain race or religion). However, the show seems aware of these risks, and takes pains to ensure that each participant is treated with respect and empathy, regardless of their beliefs.
Overall, Dealbreakers, The List Is Long is a smart, funny, and thought-provoking alternative to the usual dating show fare. By exposing the underlying quirks and contradictions of human desire, it forces us to question our own assumptions about what we want in a partner - and perhaps even to challenge our own dealbreakers. Whether you're single and looking for love, or just interested in the mysteries of attraction, this is a show that will leave you both entertained and enlightened.
