(Image credit: Netflix/ ‘Élite’ )

Spanish TV series Elite is seen as a revolutionary force that challenges traditional norms in terms of aesthetic innovation and exploration of gender identity. While backers have touted Elite as a breakthrough series that transcends the boundaries of traditional television. Indeed, its narrative, while visually appealing, falls victim to the stereotypes it purports to challenge. So-called high-quality visual elements are really just a façade that often masks a superficial depiction of gender identity. The so-called revolutionary leaps in television aesthetics may seem like a strategic marketing ploy, emphasizing visual effects over substantive storytelling.

(Image credit: Radiotimes.com/ ‘Who ends up with who in Elite season 4? All the romantic relationships in the Netflix show’ )

“Elite”‘s interpretation of gender identity and intimacy can be seen as a deliberate depiction. When we carefully observe and explore the treatment of transgender and sexual orientation in the plot, we will find that it tends to sensationalize and story lines rather than truly Explore these questions. Far from heralding a new era of gender identity exploration, the show risks trivializing complex issues for the sake of entertainment value.

“Elites” may discuss gender issues directly, but such discussions often lack the depth needed to meaningfully examine social complexities. The narrative incorporates social issues such as wealth disparity and racial discrimination, which, while laudable on the surface, risk being viewed as tokenism if not addressed with the depth and sincerity these issues require.

The global success of “Elite” may be indicative of the increasing homogeneity of television content rather than a celebration of cultural diversity. Too many film and television works that are irresponsible to real-life issues call into question the hegemony of certain cultural narratives in the global entertainment industry. It prompts consideration of whether the global convergence of television entertainment fosters a genuine exchange of diverse viewpoints or simply reinforces dominant cultural norms.

(Image credit: thenerddaily/ ‘‘Elite’ Season 1 and 2 Recap’ )

In short, everything has two sides, and although “Elite” has been praised for its so-called innovation and achieved certain achievements in film and television, a critical perspective reveals its potential flaws in aesthetic innovation and exploration of gender identity. More insightful analysis challenges the revolutionary narrative, urging viewers to question whether the play truly contributes to a nuanced understanding of social issues or merely exploits them for entertainment.

Reference

Mittell, J. (2015). Complex TV: The Poetics of Contemporary Television Storytelling. New York University Press.

Butler, J. (1990). Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity. Routledge.

Qaderi, L. (2021) This is what Netflix’s ‘elite’ got wrong about Muslims, Muslim. Available at: https://muslim.co/this-is-what-netflixs-elite-got-wrong-about-muslims/ (Accessed: 19 November 2023). 

What is the show ‘elite’ about on netflix? – quora. Available at: https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-show-Elite-about-on-Netflix (Accessed: 19 November 2023). 

By Qing Sun ｜ BA media and communications