(Provost, R. 2023)

About Euphoria and youth community

HBO’s series Euphoria has ignited widespread conversation with its bold depiction of youth culture, queer identity, and the complexities of modern adolescence. They serve an unflinching exploration of the raw, often chaotic world of its characters—dealing with addiction, mental health, and complicated relationships. These visceral scenes offer a window into the emotional turbulence of youth, resonating with viewers who see their own struggles reflected in the characters. Yet, some criticise the show going “over the top” for pushing boundaries for shock values and ratings, raising concerns that its portrayal of drugs, sex, and violence may teeter on the edge of sensationalism rather than serving the plot’s deeper purpose.

(Armstrong, 2019)

On Queer actors and representation

When it comes to representation, Euphoria is both groundbreaking and controversial. The series opens crucial conversations about queer youth, offering a platform for characters like Jules, whose gender and sexuality are portrayed with complexity and nuance. The show presents a much-needed dialogue on the fluidity of identity, reflecting the evolving conversations in society. However, shd queer characters be played by queer actors? As Michael Goddard and Christopher Hogg (2018) argue, hiring queer actors for queer roles ensures a more genuine representation of lived experiences, allowing for a deeper connection between character and audience.

Yet, Euphoria’s depiction of queer identity is not without critique. While it highlights important struggles, such as the pain of transitioning and the search for acceptance, it risks reinforcing the narrative of queer life as tragic or inherently painful. As Anamarija Horvat (2018) notes, such portrayals, though vital, should be expanded to include more diverse and multifaceted depictions of queer life, showcasing not only the struggles but also the resilience, joy, and empowerment that are equally part of the queer experience.

(TJTODAY, HBO)

Personal thoughts on queer media

I think queer representation in media should be far more than just visibility, but it’s about authenticity, agency, and the power to tell our own stories with depth and integrity. Euphoria has made strides in bringing queer experiences to the forefront, but the conversation is far from complete. To truly honour queer identities, it’s crucial that queer and trans actors are not just included but lead the narrative, from behind-the-scenes to on screen, bringing their lived experiences to roles that reflect their truths and be free from stereotypes, making the representations authentic.

Resources

Provost, R. (2023, March 5). Euphoria Cinematography Analysis — lighting, movement, and oners. StudioBinder. https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/euphoria-cinematography-analysis/

Goddard, M., & Hogg, C. (2018). Introduction: Trans TV as concept and intervention into contemporary television. Critical Studies in Television, 13(4).

Horvat, A. (2018). Crossing the Borders of Queer TV: Depictions of migration and (im)mobility in contemporary LGBTQ television. Trans TV Dossier 3, Critical Studies in Television, 15(3).

Armstrong, V. a. P. B. C. (2019, August 8). TV Review: Euphoria ★★★★. The Queer Review. https://thequeerreview.com/2019/08/05/tv-review-euphoria-%E2%98%85%E2%98%85%E2%98%85%E2%98%85/

TJTODAY. (n.d.). tjTODAY. https://www.tjtoday.org/tag/hbo-max/

Jessie Tsui Hoi Yin 33776641