The representational potential of transgender and gender mobility

In Years and Years, transgender topics take on new forms, such as Viktor, a character with a highly fluid identity, and Bethany’s identification with “transhumanism.” These roles not only represent the transgender community in the traditional sense, but further explore the future possibilities of gender mobility in the face of technological progress and social change.

The diversity and flexibility of digital platforms give this genre more room to develop. For example, Years and Years, through its non-linear narrative and multi-perspective framework, fully demonstrates how gender, identity and technology intersect, breaking the narrative conventions of gender dualism. This multi-layered representation reflects the unique strengths of new digital platforms in portraying complex gender issues.

Compared with traditional TV, works on digital platforms tend to describe the gender struggle and identity of characters in detail. For example, the technological elements of Years and Years (e.g., virtual reality, digital bodies) give a whole new dimension to the gender exploration of the characters. This narrative makes transgender and gender mobility a cultural phenomenon closely related to technological development, rather than an isolated individual issue. This way of embedding gender issues in social and technological contexts not only makes the story more comprehensive, but also broadens the audience’s awareness of gender issues.

The advantage of new digital platforms: Connecting global audiences with community expression

New digital platforms, such as HBO Max or Netflix, provide a global distribution channel for shows like Years and Years, making transgender television no longer limited to specific cultural or national contexts. This global spread has not only brought transgender issues to the forefront of international discussion, it has also provided the transgender community with a larger and more diverse platform for expression.

In addition, the interactive nature of digital platforms, such as social media discussions and fan culture, also creates more space for the dissemination and discussion of transgender topics. For example, the character Bethany’s “trans-humanist” identity has generated a lot of discussion online about technology and gender relations, demonstrating the role of digital platforms in constructing public Spaces for gender issues.

“Years and Years” shows that transgender TV has great potential for representation on new digital platforms, especially in narratives where gender fluidity and tech culture intersect. However, the balance between representation and symbolization remains a challenge that creators must face. In the future, as the interaction between digital platforms and global audiences deepens, transgender television is expected to further promote society’s awareness and acceptance of gender diversity.

Deborah Shaw and Rob Stone eds. (2021). Sense8: Transcending Television. London; New York: Bloomsbury.

Amy Villarejo (2014) Ethereal Queer: Television, Historicity, Desire

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