“Euphoria”: A Perturbing Reality with Rose Colored Glasses

HBO’s “Euphoria” made waves when it debuted in 2019, as a gripping show with haunting imagery, gut-wrenching storylines and some of the biggest breakout names in entertainment. Its focus on drugs, sex and domestic violence gives the show a TV-MA rating. Although extreme, the show never deviates too far from reality.

Following Rue’s addiction, Jules’ identity issues and Nate’s domestic abuse, the audience perceives mentally perturbing issues in a gorgeous aesthetic, which is the show's strength and downfall.

The show is beautiful with chic costuming, trendy makeup and attractive actors. However, the characters’ personalities and actions, along with the plot present a disturbing aesthetic. Mixing beautiful images with grotesque plotlines propose a toxic juxtaposition to the audience, mostly consisting of teenagers and young adults. The show’s beauty masks the vulgar reality of the events within “Euphoria.”

In one aspect, it presents the message that mental illness is romanticised by society. Yet, “Euphoria” struggles to clearly present the criticizing message, as the contrast between the visuals and plotline can be unclear in making a powerful message on not romanticizing mental illness. 

The show’s inability to carry out their intended message, which is deromanticizing the dangerous aspects of mental illness, creates a toxic show that confuses and damages the audience. If perceived correctly, it is a tasteful, clever representation of mental illness. If not, it romanticizes and creates a false narrative that endangers the audience. “Euphoria” is unable to separate these two perceptions strongly enough and has a tendency to glamorize mental illness. There is no need to completely avoid the show, but views must understand that it is the most extreme, beautified version of drug abuse you will ever see. Take each scene with a grain of salt and remember that the camera will never capture the worst of mental illness. “Euphoria” is a well done show, but its struggle with face lifting mental illness is ultimately dangerous and difficult to truly comprehend.