In this discussion, Rebecca Onion, a pop culture expert, and Jenny Zhang, an influential writer, dive into the HBO series Industry and its growing viewership. They compare it to Succession, tackling the show's character dynamics and corporate themes. The conversation also shifts to the new Alien film, Alien: Romulus, dissecting its narrative and belonging to the xenomorph legacy. Additionally, the duo explores the impact of beauty culture on tweens, examining societal pressures and shifting beauty standards in the age of social media.
The HBO series 'Industry' has evolved significantly over three seasons, moving from chaotic realism to a more soap opera-like narrative that raises questions about character relatability.
The complex moral ambiguity of 'Industry's' characters, similar to those in 'Euphoria' and 'Mad Men', intrigues audiences despite their moral shortcomings.
The conversation on tweens and beauty culture highlights societal pressures, revealing how early exposure to brands like Sephora affects self-image and ideals among younger generations.
Deep dives
The HBO Series 'Industry'
The HBO series 'Industry' explores the cutthroat world of finance through the eyes of a group of ambitious graduates working at an investment bank in London. While it debuted to a modest audience, it has gained attention for its parallels to the more popular series, 'Succession.' Both shows share themes of ruthless competition and moral ambiguity, presenting characters who navigate a high-stakes environment fraught with personal and professional challenges. The show's third season has positioned it in a prime Sunday night slot, allowing it to potentially stand out amidst strong competition.
Evolution of Show Quality
The evolution of 'Industry' over its three seasons reflects significant changes in its narrative and character development, sparking discussions among fans and critics. Initially praised for its raw and chaotic portrayal of young professionals, the series has shifted towards a more soap opera-like format in its storytelling. This transformation has prompted mixed reactions, as audiences question whether the characters are becoming increasingly unrelatable and their arcs repetitive. Despite the show's imperfections, dedicated viewers appreciate the tension and ambition that continue to drive the plot.
Character Comparisons and References
Character analysis within 'Industry' showcases the complexity and moral ambiguity of its ensemble cast, drawing comparisons to other shows such as 'Euphoria' and 'Mad Men.' While the characters of 'Industry' embody a certain degree of unlikability, this element serves to intrigue audiences as they navigate their morally gray choices. The discussion highlights the challenges of creating relatable protagonists in a narrative where ambition often trumps ethical considerations. Comparisons to 'Emily in Paris' underline the show's shift towards a soap-like format, contrasting with the more serious undertones of other network offerings.
The Future of 'Industry' Amidst Competition
As 'Industry' enters its third season, questions emerge regarding its trajectory in the shadow of 'Succession' and other hype-worthy programming. Critics note that the show struggles to achieve character depth, resulting in viewers questioning their emotional investment in the characters’ journeys. Despite these challenges, the show's appeal lies in its depiction of contemporary workplace dynamics, making it particularly relatable for younger audiences. Discussions around its positioning raise hopes for greater character development and storylines that resonate more strongly with viewers.
Beauty Culture and Its Impacts
A recent discussion on beauty culture highlights the societal pressures faced by tweens and young adults, particularly within the context of brands like Sephora. The conversation reflects on the consequences of a hyper-curated beauty ideal, fueled by social media and influencer culture. Observations reveal that children's involvement in beauty culture often begins at an early age, with products marketed to them reinforcing unrealistic standards. As societal views shift and critical perspectives emerge, there is hope for future movements towards authenticity and self-acceptance among younger generations.
On this week’s show, Rebecca Onion and Jenny Zhang fill in for Stephen. First, the panel tacklesHBO’s Industry. The show is in its third season and has seen a huge increase in viewership. But is it a show worth of the coveted Sunday night timeslot? Then, they explore Alien: Romulus, a new addition to Xenomorph lore, with a controversial cameo. Finally, the panel talks about Sephora, beauty culture and tweens in a conversation inspired by Jia Tolentino’s new essay What Tweens Get from Sephora and What They Get From Us.
On this week’s exclusive Slate Plus bonus episode, the panel talks about watching horror movies as a critic.
REBECCA: Two endorsements: First, Health and Safety: A Breakdown by Emily Witt. This memoir from a New Yorker writer is a fascinating look at “changing perceptions of life.” Second, pistachio milk. It’s tasty.
JULIA: This week’s Hang Up and Listen marks the end of an era. “What a gift this show has been.”
