One of the greats: ‘Succession’ finale marks the end of a brilliant era

KARACHI:

Succession, the Emmy-winning TV drama that revolves around the power struggle within the Roy family, has concluded its fourth season with an ending that has left everyone gasping for breath. The finale showcases the brilliance of the writing, infusing the narrative with elements of comedy, tragedy, unexpected twists, and top-rate dialogue. Writer Jesse Armstrong adeptly crafts a script that navigates the complex dynamics of the Roy family.

The themes of ambition, family dynamics, and the corrupting influence of power are intricately woven throughout the series and reach their peak in the finale. Succession serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of swimming with sharks, as the Roy children indulge in a pleasant swim together only to realize the devastating consequences that await them.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Tom Wambsgans’ ascent

Tom (Matthew Macfayden) emerges as the victor in the power struggle, transforming from a man driven by social capital to a formidable contender. The separation from Siobhan 'Shiv' Roy (Sarah Snook) allows him to forge his own path, becoming Logan Roy's (Brian Cox) right-hand man, only to be left behind in a world without Logan. Despite a strained relationship with his wife, Tom rises to prominence and is ultimately crowned the new CEO of Waystar Royco under the GoJo deal. This rags-to-riches journey showcases Tom's resilience and ambition.

The relationship between Tom and Gregory Hirsch (Nicholas Braun) also takes on a new facet. From Greg's humble beginnings as the kid who once vomited in his costume, he rises to the "bottom of the top" by striking a deal with the devil and aligning himself with Tom to betray. However, the friction between the two culminates in a physical altercation during the finale. Even so, after emerging victorious Tom's act of marking Greg with Conner's earlier distributed sticker symbolises his support and his awareness of the loneliness that accompanies his ascent. It also indicates that Tom sees potential in Greg, who reminds him of his own journey, yet simultaneously marks him as a target.

Shiv’s transformation

Positioned as a woman within one of America's most influential families, Shiv comprehends the necessity of a male counterpart to navigate the treacherous waters of power. Her attempts to uplift the men in her orbit as a means to advance her own aspirations invariably backfire, leaving her bitter and disheartened. Shiv carries within her womb the progeny of Tom, which becomes a potent leverage in cementing her position as a privileged consort to the chief executive officer of her father's empire.

Snook's compelling portrayal of Shiv, coupled with Macfayden's riveting performance, emanates an electrifying chemistry that thrills and moves audiences. Their toxic coupling underscores the intricate dance of power dynamics. Succession illuminates the sacrifices demanded of women in patriarchal spheres through Shiv. Her ascent necessitates a compromise of her own agency, as she becomes entangled in a cycle of perpetuating the same oppressive systems she once sought to transcend.

Kendall Roy’s downfall

Kendall (Jeremy Strong), the "eldest boy" in the Roy dynasty (a factually inaccurate but thematically pertinent declaration, given that Connor, essayed by Alan Ruck, is constantly overlooked), loses everything.

His spouse and children are casualties of a struggle that eludes his comprehension. Among his offspring, Sophie Roy (Swayam Bhatia), bears the weight of her own ethnicity, while Rava Roy (Natalie Gold) serves as a conduit for conveying this harrowing reality to Kendall. Succession astutely refrains from depicting Sophie's own tribulations, relegating them to the periphery of a world where her racial identity holds little significance. Roman's dismissive reference to Kendall's offspring as mere "randos" further underscores their exclusion from the family.

Logan's departure - the very father who, at the tender age of seven, orchestrated Kendall's predestined ascendance to the helm of the Roy empire - comes as a devastating blow. This encounter, imprinted upon Kendall's psyche, shapes the trajectory of his life. With Logan's passing, Kendall confronts the absence of the guiding force and cause for rebellion in his life.

Kendall also loses his siblings, his own descent into violence against them during a climactic moment severing the fragile bonds that once connected them. The culmination of his downfall manifests in the loss of his professional standing, with Tom usurping his coveted position.

Strong's nuanced portrayal captures Kendall's profound sense of purposelessness. His aimless wanderings through the cityscape serve as a visual metaphor for his hapless state. One wonders whether Shiv's actions have truly salvaged Kendall from himself or cast him into a life bereft of meaning.

Roman Roy’s peace

Roman (Kieran Culkin) emerges as a figure seemingly untethered from the tribulations that engulf his siblings. As the tumult subsides, a subtle smile graces his countenance, hinting at a newfound state of liberation. Roman, now unshackled from familial expectations, stands as a symbol of emancipation, having willingly relinquished the cursed crown that accompanies his lineage.

Unlike his siblings, Roman never truly harboured an innate yearning for the mantle of CEO. It was a self-fulfilling prophecy perpetrated by Logan, a mechanism employed to mould his children according to his own designs. Yet, Roman attains a revelatory clarity, recognizing the hollowness of the promised throne.

Culkin's tour de force portrayal of Roman throughout the season merits thunderous applause. His performance delves into the realm of the extraordinary, with Culkin deftly capturing the essence of Roman's internal struggles.

One of a kind

With its turbulent twists, stunning cinematography, and exceptional writing, Succession transcends the boundaries of traditional television. Top-notch performances, including standout portrayals by Culkin, Strong, Snook, and Macfayeden enhance the impact of the characters' journeys.

Succession will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most pivotal pieces of art in television history. Its ability to make us mourn for and laugh with privileged billionaires is as remarkable as it is worth applauding. With all that the show has achieved over four seasons, one opinion rises to the top to cement itself as a fact: there will never be another show like Succession.

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