There are several ways in which one can analyze an artifact. Today, I will be discussing the Netflix series, and using generic criticism. This will allow me to explore the genre and its restrictions, constraints, and expectations.
To summarize, You is a psychological thriller series. Joe Goldberg, the main character, is a serial killer who claims to kill for love. His character has gained mass popularity recently. Many fans sympathize with Joe, despite the horrible crimes he continuously commits. The support to this specific genre is notable, as we are living in a society where stories such as these are the harsh realities. This is seen via gun violence, rape, abuse, etc. that is constantly being portrayed and demonized in the media.
Psychological thrillers are a popular genre among many people. Movies and shows such as Bates Motel, Dexter, Gone girl, etc. have gained popularity over the years. Their plots emphasize the instabilities or psychological weaknesses of important characters, while showing how their personalities contribute to the unpredictable plots. Characters are expected to be unstable and erratic. They are constrained by their own mental states or restrictive situations that they find themselves in. Furthermore, they are expected to act, react, think, and feel in an unconventional way that makes the audience think critically and feel unexpected emotions.
In terms of you, all of these factors are seen. Joe is unable to escape his twisted, unhealthy mentality, which is integral to the plot, as it drives all of his actions. Throughout the show, everyday situations are displayed, but Joe puts a twist on everything. He is able to think, feel, and perceive things in a way that the average person does not. While doing this, he is simultaneously justifying his actions through manipulative and coercive thoughts that are shared with the audience. For instance, he stalks one of his love interests on social media, which is something that most people can familiarize himself with. However, Joe goes as far to steal the victim’s phone and keep it for himself in order to spy on her personal life. Although this seems like a serious violation to the average person, Joe then goes on to rationalize by saying he will do anything for love, which is what sets him apart from the average person. He almost makes his faults and shortcomings seem like misunderstood strengths.
Finally, You can be analyzed using generic criticism, as it is a psychological thriller series. Joe is restricted to his own lack of mental sanity which constrains him to acting in an immoral, dangerous, and sporadic ways. This leaves characters with expectations of the same repeating behaviors that allow the plot to keep advancing. It is important to understand the genre of any artifact in order for one to see the restrictions, constraints and expectations that ensue. (467 words)
Rhetorical Theory & Criticism 