In Succession Season 4 Episode 8, the personal is the political
The latest episode of HBO’s Succession was lauded by its creator as being one the most shocking of the season (yes, including Episode 3). Its implications however, aren’t as expeditious as the fall of the king, rather seeps its sinister claws into us long after the credits have rolled. A "night of good TV indeed".
"America Decides," the much-anticipated eighth episode of Succession's final season, delves deeply into the turbulent realm of American politics and the conniving agendas of the Roys. Against the backdrop of an impending Presidential election, the episode delves into the internal conflicts within the Roy family as they navigate their own personal interests and weigh the decision of publicly endorsing a candidate on ATN.
Marking his fifth directorial work for the series and his second this season, the episode exhibits remarkable storytelling prowess, skillfully guided by director Andrij Parekh, who expertly balances chaos and clarity, allowing the intricate electoral maneuvering to unfold with palpable tension. Well-placed moments of silence amplify pivotal scenes, such as Shiv's calculated confrontation with Greg or Kendall's contemplative response to Shiv's betrayal, leaving a lasting impact amidst the relentless momentum of the exit polls and creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously chilling and captivating.
The performances in "America Decides" are exceptional, featuring standout moments from the entire ensemble. Matthew Macfadyen's seems like he’s finally unhinged Tom beyond any repair, excellently capturing his cruelty and manic anxieties, while Sarah Snook's exudes an increasing vulnerability to Shiv in the aftermath of a number of intense confrontations.
Throughout the episode, the characters wrestle with their conflicting desires. For the very first time this season, Jeremy Strong seems at a complete loss for words for the better part of the episode. Kendall, torn between his loyalty to his family and daughter, his duty to the country, and his personal ambitions, ultimately makes the choice to support the Republican candidate Mencken alongside Roman, solidifying his position as CEO and dealing a devastating blow to Shiv following her painful act of betrayal. The dynamics among the siblings are fraught with tension, each employing their own tactics to influence Kendall's decision.
"Call it." pic.twitter.com/SJIDOjBpmS
— Succession (@succession) May 15, 2023
However, following Shiv’s eventual unmasking and public berating session, it looks like the youngest Roy gets the last laugh (for now), as an absolutely diabolical Kieran Culkin lays Roman bare for the self-serving, sadistic freak that he is. On every level, the math seems to clock for Mencken serving Waystar’s best interests and Roman pounces on it with the frantic desperation of a beast backed into a corner, exemplified with a “Nothing matters, Ken. Nothing f****g matters. Dad’s dead, and the country’s just a big p***y waiting to get f****d.” for effect.
Despite chronicling the fictional tales of how the Roy siblings screwed America over petty squabbles, "America Decides" resonates with the real-world implications of power dynamics and personal agendas in politics. The episode provokes hair-raising thoughts by raising questions about the intersection of family, politics, and individual self-interests, making it not only one of the most compelling episodes this season, but also a biting commentary on the broader socio-political landscape of the West.
The episode's narrative maintains an atmosphere of chaos without veering into incomprehensibility. It effectively underscores the blurred boundaries between Waystar's owners and ATN's editorial team as the Roys assert their opinions, resulting in the volatile atmosphere on the news floor.
Sometimes, Succession makes me feel like Greg munching on bodega sushi while desperately trying to make head or tail of the drama ensuing around him. Jessie Armstrong’s deliberately perplexing dialogue is just the right amount of convoluted to make me feel dumb enough to go back for another listen, while not coming off as condescending. Almost like a curt “You got this buddy” from Tom, only it's genuine and not backhanded.
Succession once again delivers its signature mix of family drama and sharp humor. The characters' personal interests are intricately intertwined with the political landscape, and the Roys find themselves not only (prematurely) calling the next president but also placing bets on how each candidate can serve their selfish ambitions. Even Greg - here, personifying the collective anxieties of us as the viewers - recognizes the magnitude of the power he holds in ATN's decision to call the election in favour of a fascist monster.
They’ll say Jesse Armstrong exaggerated when he called tonight’s #Succession the most shocking. Personally, I see why he said it. Seeing these despicable characters sell their souls to the devil for their ambitions hits close to home. Especially in our current political climate. pic.twitter.com/ixiapfo5ZX
— Edgar Ortega (@edgorteg) May 15, 2023
As pressure mounts and events spiral out of control, Succession continues to captivate audiences with its gripping storytelling, nuanced performances, and astute direction. "America Decides" leaves us horrified at the prospects of the future, albeit in eager anticipation for a much-awaited funeral next week.