Unveiling the Succession’s Passing- How the Show Scores High on the Bechdel Test
Does Succession Pass the Bechdel Test?
In the world of television, the Bechdel Test has become a significant criterion for evaluating the representation of women in storytelling. The test consists of three simple questions: Does the film or TV show have two women in it? Do they talk to each other? And do they talk about something other than a man? With the rise of critically acclaimed series like Succession, it’s important to ask whether this drama passes the Bechdel Test and what that means for its portrayal of women.
Succession, created by Jesse Armstrong and starring Jeremy Strong as the heir to a media empire, has garnered a cult following for its dark humor and complex characters. The series follows the lives of the Roy family as they navigate power struggles, betrayal, and the complexities of wealth and legacy. Despite the show’s strengths, its portrayal of women has been a subject of debate, particularly in relation to the Bechdel Test.
The series features several female characters, including Kendall Roy (played by Jessica Lange), Connor Roy (played by Sarah Snook), and Logan Roy’s wife, Wendy (played by Kelli O’Hara). While these women are well-developed and play crucial roles in the narrative, the Bechdel Test highlights the limitations of their interactions. For instance, many of their conversations revolve around the Roy family’s business and the men in their lives, rather than independent topics of interest.
Does Succession pass the Bechdel Test? Technically, the answer is yes. There are moments when the women talk to each other and discuss topics other than men. However, the frequency and depth of these interactions are limited, and the show’s overall portrayal of women could be improved. The series could benefit from more diverse and complex female relationships, as well as more substantial discussions about women’s issues and interests.
The Bechdel Test is not an ultimate measure of a show’s quality or its commitment to gender equality. However, it serves as a useful tool for identifying potential biases and gaps in representation. In the case of Succession, while the show does pass the Bechdel Test, it falls short in providing a fully rounded portrayal of women. This raises questions about the show’s intentions and its potential for growth in this area.
As audiences continue to demand more nuanced and inclusive storytelling, it’s crucial for creators to examine their work through various lenses, including the Bechdel Test. Succession, while entertaining and thought-provoking, could benefit from a more balanced approach to women’s representation. By doing so, the series could not only pass the Bechdel Test but also become a shining example of diverse and engaging storytelling.
