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| Severance, January 29, 2025. Photo by Huw Gwilliam. |
For those who have yet to watch the Severance, I have to say go do it right now. You will not be disappointed. If you're still not convinced, please continue reading an hopefully you will be by the end. I have to warn you however, there may be minor SPOILERS for the plot and themes of the show, so continue at your own risk. If you have seen the show please enjoy and let me know your thoughts.
"Severance": A Mirror to Modern Life, Wrapped in a Sci-Fi Mystery
In today's world, where we're constantly bombarded with new shows, it's rare for one to truly stand out. Apple TV+'s "Severance" has managed to do just that. It's not just a show you watch and forget; it's a conversation starter. It delves into the anxieties of modern life, particularly the ever-blurring lines between work and personal time, and it does so through a compelling science fiction lens. This show isn't just about entertainment; it's about exploring deep questions about identity, control, and the human experience. It's a reflection of our own world, amplified and distorted through the lens of a corporate dystopia, making us ponder the potential consequences of unchecked technological and corporate power. It asks us to consider what it truly means to be human in an age where our minds and bodies might be increasingly subject to external control. "Severance" is a cultural touchstone, a show that invites us to look inward and examine the very fabric of our existence in a rapidly changing world.
The show's ability to resonate with audiences stems from its exploration of universal themes. We all grapple with the challenge of balancing work and life, of maintaining our sense of self in the face of demanding jobs and technological intrusions. "Severance" takes these anxieties to an extreme, creating a world where the separation between work and life is literal. This exaggeration allows us to see our own struggles in a new light, to question the assumptions we make about work and identity. It forces us to ask: how much of ourselves are we willing to give up for our jobs? How much control are we willing to relinquish to technology? By presenting these questions in a dramatic and compelling way, "Severance" encourages us to think critically about our own lives and the choices we make.
The Big Idea: A Deep Dive Into a Divided Mind
The core concept of "Severance" is both simple and profound: a surgical procedure that creates two distinct personalities within a single individual. This idea, while fantastical, serves as a powerful metaphor for the compartmentalization of modern life. The "innie" and "outie" personas represent the different aspects of ourselves that we present to the world, the roles we play in various contexts. The show explores the implications of this division, asking what happens when these different selves are completely separated. It delves into the nature of memory, identity, and consciousness, questioning what it means to be a person when your experiences are fragmented and incomplete.
The "severance" procedure creates a stark contrast between the sterile, controlled environment of Lumon Industries and the unpredictable, messy reality of the outside world. The "innies" exist in a state of perpetual work, their lives devoid of personal memories or emotional connections. They are essentially cogs in a machine, their existence defined by their tasks. The "outies," on the other hand, live their lives unaware of their "innie" counterparts, their work experiences a blank slate. This division creates a sense of unease and disorientation, forcing viewers to confront the unsettling possibility of a fragmented existence. It raises profound questions about the nature of self, asking whether we are truly one person or a collection of different selves.
The ethical implications of the "severance" procedure are also a central theme of the show. It raises concerns about corporate control, psychological manipulation, and the potential for abuse. The show asks: who has the right to control our minds and memories? What are the limits of corporate power? By exploring these questions, "Severance" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and the importance of protecting individual autonomy. It reminds us that our minds and memories are precious, and that we must be vigilant in safeguarding them from external control.
A Slow and Scary Mystery: Building Tension, Unraveling Secrets
"Severance" is a masterclass in slow-burn storytelling. The show takes its time, gradually revealing its mysteries and building suspense with each episode. This deliberate pacing allows viewers to become deeply invested in the characters' plight, fostering a sense of shared vulnerability and a relentless desire to unravel the secrets of Lumon. The show eschews the instant gratification of rapid plot twists and exposition, instead opting for a gradual unveiling of its intricate world. Each episode is like a puzzle piece, revealing fragments of information while simultaneously raising more questions. This creates a sense of constant intrigue and suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
The show's narrative structure is akin to a psychological thriller, where the true horror lies not in overt acts of violence or supernatural phenomena, but in the insidious erosion of personal agency and the gradual realization of one's own confinement. The mysteries of Lumon, from the cryptic directives of the company to the strange rituals performed by its employees, are carefully woven into the fabric of the story, creating a sense of constant intrigue and suspense. These mysteries are not merely plot devices; they are integral to the show's exploration of corporate control, psychological manipulation, and the potential for rebellion against an oppressive system. They serve as a constant reminder of the fragility of individual autonomy and the insidious power of institutional control.
The show's ability to create a sense of unease and disorientation is also a key element of its success. The "innie" characters are constantly grappling with the strangeness of their situation, their lives defined by their work and devoid of personal memories or emotional connections. This creates a sense of isolation and detachment, making viewers feel as though they are trapped in the same sterile, controlled environment as the characters. The show's atmosphere is both unsettling and compelling, drawing viewers into its world and making them question the nature of their own reality.
The Weird Office Makes You Feel Uneasy: A Visual Representation of Control
The visual aesthetic of "Severance" is integral to its immersive and unsettling quality. The stark, minimalist design of Lumon's office environment, with its long, sterile corridors, uniform cubicles, and fluorescent lighting, creates a sense of oppressive conformity and dehumanization. The use of color is deliberate and restrained, contributing to the overall sense of unease and isolation. The production design is meticulously crafted, with every detail carefully considered to reinforce the show's themes. The sterile, almost clinical atmosphere of the office serves as a visual representation of the dehumanizing nature of the "severance" procedure, highlighting the erosion of individuality in the pursuit of corporate efficiency. The cinematography further enhances this effect, employing wide shots and static camera movements to emphasize the characters' isolation and the vastness of their confined environment.
The office environment in "Severance" is more than just a setting; it's a character in its own right. It embodies the oppressive power of Lumon Industries, serving as a constant reminder of the company's control over its employees. The sterile, impersonal design of the office creates a sense of detachment, making viewers feel as though they are observing the characters from a distance. This detachment allows us to see the dehumanizing effects of the "severance" procedure more clearly, highlighting the loss of individuality and the erosion of personal agency.
The show's use of visual symbolism is also a key element of its success. The cryptic symbols and slogans of Lumon Industries, the strange rituals performed by its employees, and the meticulously organized office environment all contribute to the show's atmosphere of mystery and unease. These visual cues serve as reminders of the company's power and the characters' lack of control, creating a sense of constant tension and suspense.
Great Actors Make It Real: Bringing Depth to Divided Selves
The actors in "Severance" deliver exceptional performances, bringing depth and nuance to their complex characters. Adam Scott, as Mark Scout, masterfully portrays the emotional turmoil of a man grappling with the loss of his wife and the unsettling reality of his "severed" existence. Patricia Arquette, as Harmony Cobel, embodies the enigmatic and manipulative nature of Lumon's management, delivering a performance that is both chilling and compelling, a masterclass in controlled intensity and subtle menace. John Turturro and Christopher Walken, as Irving Bailiff and Burt Goodman, respectively, bring a poignant and nuanced portrayal of the burgeoning relationship between two "innies" navigating the complexities of their confined world, their performances imbued with a sense of quiet desperation, longing, and a profound understanding of the human need for connection.
The actors' ability to convey the stark contrast between their "innie" and "outie" personas is crucial to the show's success. They create distinct and believable characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. This allows viewers to connect with the characters on a deep and personal level, even as they grapple with the surreal and unsettling circumstances of their existence. The actors' performances are grounded in genuine emotion, making the show more than just a science fiction mystery; it becomes a story about the human experience.
The cast’s commitment to their roles elevates the show from a simple mystery to a profound exploration of the human condition. They bring a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to their characters, making them relatable and compelling. This allows viewers to empathize with the characters' struggles and to question the ethical implications of the "severance" procedure.
Thinking About Work and Control: A Reflection of Modern Anxieties
"Severance" serves as a powerful allegory for the anxieties of modern work, exploring the ever-blurring lines between professional and personal life, the potential dangers of unchecked corporate power, and the erosion of individual autonomy in the face of institutional control. It raises pertinent questions about the ethical implications of technological advancement, the potential for psychological manipulation, and the importance of resisting the dehumanizing forces that seek to control our lives. The show's exploration of these themes is not merely theoretical; it is deeply relevant to the contemporary experience, reflecting the growing concerns about the impact of technology on our lives and the increasing encroachment of work into our personal spaces. "Severance" prompts viewers to reflect on their own relationship with work, challenging them to consider the potential consequences of sacrificing their individuality and personal freedom for the sake of corporate efficiency, for the illusion of stability and security. It serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder of the importance of maintaining our humanity in a world increasingly dominated by technology and corporate control.
The show's exploration of work-life balance is particularly resonant in an age of remote work and constant connectivity. The "severance" procedure, while extreme, represents the ultimate form of compartmentalization, a complete separation of work and personal life. This raises questions about the nature of work itself, asking whether it is possible to truly separate our professional and personal selves. The show also explores the potential for exploitation, as Lumon Industries uses the "severance" procedure to maximize productivity and control its employees. This raises concerns about the ethical implications of using technology to manipulate human behavior and the importance of protecting workers' rights.
"Severance" also delves into the theme of corporate control, exploring the ways in which companies can exert power over their employees. Lumon Industries is portrayed as a powerful and secretive organization, with a cult-like following among its employees. The company's control extends beyond the workplace, as it seeks to influence its employees' personal lives and beliefs. This raises concerns about the dangers of unchecked corporate power and the importance of maintaining a healthy skepticism towards authority. The show also explores the potential for resistance, as the "innies" begin to question their reality and seek to break free from their confinement.
People Talking Online: A Collective Quest for Understanding
The show's ability to generate online discussion and fan theories is a testament to its enduring appeal. The intricate world-building and numerous mysteries within "Severance" provide ample fodder for speculation, creating a vibrant online community of viewers eager to dissect every detail, to unravel every cryptic clue. From deciphering the cryptic symbols and slogans of Lumon to theorizing about the true nature of the company's work, fans have embraced the show's enigmatic nature, contributing to its ongoing cultural impact. This online engagement has helped to keep the show alive between seasons, fostering a sense of shared experience and collective discovery, a testament to the power of storytelling to unite and inspire. The constant stream of theories and interpretations further enriches the viewing experience, adding layers of depth and complexity to the already intricate narrative, transforming viewers from passive consumers to active participants in the unfolding mystery.
The online community provides a space for viewers to share their interpretations, to debate the show's themes, and to collectively grapple with the profound questions it raises. Fans create detailed analyses of each episode, pointing out subtle clues and connections that might have been missed by casual viewers. They also engage in lively discussions about the show's symbolism, its characters' motivations, and its potential implications for the future. This collaborative effort to understand the show's mysteries fosters a sense of community and shared purpose, making the viewing experience more engaging and rewarding.
The online discussions surrounding "Severance" also serve as a platform for exploring the show's broader themes. Viewers share their own experiences with work-life balance, corporate control, and the impact of technology on their lives. They discuss the ethical implications of the "severance" procedure and the potential dangers of unchecked corporate power. This exchange of ideas and perspectives enriches the show's meaning, making it more than just a fictional story; it becomes a catalyst for real-world conversations.
Why "Severance" Is Important: A Lasting Impact on Television and Culture
In conclusion, "Severance" is more than just a television show; it's a cultural phenomenon, a work of art that challenges and provokes, that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. It's a meticulously crafted exploration of the human condition, a thought-provoking commentary on the anxieties of modern work, and a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling. Its unique premise, atmospheric visuals, stellar performances, and profound themes have cemented its place as a modern television masterpiece, a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the depths of the human experience and to spark a profound and lasting conversation about the world we inhabit.
"Severance" has redefined the boundaries of television storytelling, demonstrating the power of slow-burn narratives, intricate world-building, and thought-provoking themes. It has shown that television can be more than just entertainment; it can be a platform for exploring complex ideas and challenging viewers to think critically about their own lives. The show's success has also demonstrated the power of online communities to engage with and interpret television narratives, creating a shared experience that extends beyond the screen.
The show's impact extends beyond the realm of television, as it has sparked conversations about the future of work, the ethics of technology, and the importance of individual autonomy. "Severance" has become a cultural touchstone, a reference point for discussions about the anxieties of modern life. It has shown that television can be a powerful tool for social commentary, raising awareness about important issues and prompting viewers to take action.
Ultimately, "Severance" is a show that stays with you, a show that makes you think, and a show that reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming forces, the human spirit has the power to resist and to seek truth. It’s a compelling piece of art that will be discussed for years to come.
New episodes of Severance release every Friday on Apple TV+, with the final 3 episode of season 2 airing on March 7th, 14th and 21st. Check it out!