“Euphoria” is a HBOMax television series that has broken down barriers and sparked conversation that has lasted what feels like a lifetime. The show is known for its controversial elements like drug abuse, sexual themes and nudity, all things that have flipped the script and have fans hooked to see what happens next.
Throughout the course of the show, there have been featured topics such as drug abuse, sexual assault, violence, sex and gender dysmorphia. These subjects have made fans witness major character development and horrifying scenes that showcase the raw parts of what the characters have experienced. This allows for uncharted territory in the film industry to finally come alive.
With that being said, season two of the series recently came out which is very exciting because it has been long-awaited for two years due to COVID-19.
The first episode titled, “Trying to Get to Heaven Before They Close the Door,” shines light on main character Rue, played by Zendaya, and her personal struggles with addiction. The episode focuses on different main characters throughout many scenes. However, Rue, particularly in this first episode, is important to witness because we see her try to bounce back from dealing with her relationship with Jules, and her addiction that has her spiraling.
Not to mention, Rue is also the narrator of the series, which plays a huge role when explaining different characters and their backstories. During this episode she narrates the backstory behind character Fez, who is her close friend who supplies her drugs in order for her to fuel her addiction. Fez has a complex life and Rue has somehow managed to tangle her way into his sketchy business ordeals with his little brother.
Her relationship with Fez is important to mention, because there’s a scene that takes place where Rue gets trapped in a drastic situation of life and death. To put it lightly,drug dealers who Fez worked with made everyone in the room strip fully naked because they were forced to follow orders. All the actors stripped naked, some showing full nudity while others the bare minimum.
However, Zendaya’s character did not strip naked at all. In fact, there was an entire other scene of Rue still being harassed but fully clothed. This is mind-blowing and truly powerful because Zendaya made sure in her contract to not show nudity. Considering her incredible acting skills and position as an executive producer it makes sense for her to have this available to her.
Also, to clarify, anyone who wants to show nudity and embrace that side of creativity can, it’s just nice seeing actors who do not, not settle for what is expected but instead what they deserve.
Being observant gave an understanding for fans to realize Zendaya’s presence in the film industry truly matters and it’s not only motivating but remarkable that she stood up for herself and stood her ground.
