Totally agree. React and Vue are overkill and bloated, and actually lead to a worse experience a lot of the time e.g. users starting at spinning loaders with broken browser functionality (like back buton)

A hybrid approach of server-side views with a simple lib like AlpineJS or HTMX for dynamic bits is far better in most cases. The initial page load is blazing fast because the server does the work. Then, for things like filtering or updating lists, you use the lightweight library for smooth, efficient updates. You get the best of both worlds—a super-fast initial experience and the ability to add dynamic features without the React baggage (and often-neglected backend).