Unpacking the Intrigue of Ryan Murphy’s The Beauty
Ryan Murphy’s new series, The Beauty, arrived with a whirlwind of expectations. Initially skeptical, I questioned whether it could deliver anything fresh or insightful, especially with a trailer that seemed underwhelming. Yet, after diving into the first three episodes, my doubts began to shift.
The Beauty premiered on January 21 on FX, a familiar platform for many of Murphy’s previous works like Pose, American Horror Story, and Feud. This series, co-written by Murphy and Matt Hodgson, is inspired by a comic by Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley. It revolves around two FBI agents investigating a series of strange deaths linked to a peculiar illness dubbed “the beauty.” Initially, this virus makes its victims stunningly attractive, resembling runway models, only to ultimately result in their explosive demise.
As the agents trace the origins and spread of this disease, a sinister group seeks to control the outbreak by pursuing the infected. In a disturbing twist, unscrupulous plastic surgeons offer the disease to those desperate to enhance their appeal. But be warned: the affliction spreads through intimate contact, making it nearly impossible to resist the allure of its bearers.
The cast is an impressive lineup, featuring familiar faces from the Ryan Murphy Cinematic Universe, including Evan Peters, Anthony Ramos, and Ashton Kutcher, with Bella Hadid making her acting debut in a pivotal role.
A Chaotic Narrative
In the first episode, viewers are bombarded with wild plot developments: from exploding models to an incel-led mass shooting, and a love affair between FBI agents. Much like typical Ryan Murphy fare, it is a dizzying array of storylines filled with absurdity that keeps viewers guessing at every turn.
For horror enthusiasts, The Beauty invites comparisons to other genre-defining works. The sexually transmitted nature of the illness might remind you of It Follows, while the graphic depictions of violence echo the chilling visuals in Ready or Not. It’s clear that the creators drew from a rich tapestry of horror elements.
A Commentary on Beauty Standards
At its core, The Beauty strives to critique society’s fixation on Eurocentric beauty ideals while showcasing empathy for those feeling the burden of these standards. With conversations around stars using weight-loss medications and the rise of cosmetic enhancements, the series attempts to start an important dialogue. However, how effectively it does so remains up for debate.
A pivotal discussion between agents Cooper Madsen (Peters) and Jordan Bennett (Rebecca Hall) captures how the show tries to navigate this topic. While Bennett’s reflections on her insecurities lead to an opportunity for deeper conversation, Madsen’s response veers into overly simplistic territory. This could have been a poignant commentary on the different pressures surrounding beauty but ultimately feels insufficient.
The Balancing Act
The show’s attempt at a balance—wanting to comment on societal pressures without alienating audiences—sometimes leads to superficial humor. Although it occasionally dips into self-satire, many moments could benefit from a greater depth. Yet, amid the chaos, The Beauty sometimes strikes the right chord. For example, Jeremy (Jeremy Pope) opens up about the hardships faced as a marginalized individual, shedding light on how societal norms can profoundly impact mental health and self-worth.
Conclusion
Although The Beauty may not reach the artistic heights of some of its contemporaries, it delivers an enjoyable mix of absurdity and moments of genuine reflection. With its unpredictable storylines, striking visuals, and underlying commentary on beauty norms, the show proves to be just engaging enough to keep viewers coming back for more, despite its flaws.
In a landscape filled with complex themes, The Beauty navigates a unique space that leaves audiences both entertained and contemplative—a balance that, in itself, holds a certain charm.
