Succession: Binging the 1% of the Top 1%
Money, Power, Greed. Succession encompasses all these aspects of society that draw our attention. An HBO series immaculately produced, written, and executed by a riveting cast; Succession gives the viewer a window to society’s “elites”. In essence it is a series that displays and dramatizes the inner workings of a global conglomerate, Waystar Royco. The viewer will be tossed into the dark side of business and witness a fight for corporate supremacy. Comical relief will be experienced, accompanied by uncomfortable awkwardness, and a multitude of tension all encompassed and vying for space in an emotional jigsaw puzzle.
Who represents such a world best is none other than Logan Roy, played by the imposing Brian Cox. Demagogue like CEO and founder, Logan Roy is the embodiment of what comes to mind when the average person envisions the “1% of the top 1%”. Ruthless in all aspects of life, he is a man who has a “take no prisoners” attitude. This is easily seen through his corporate relationships and from those close to him. He is feared, respected, and at times hated. The viewer will also be introduced to Logan’s disciples, his children. Each one of the Roys have shown traits of their father, although not to his extremes, thus making it harder to choose a successor. There is Kendal Roy, played by Jeremy Strong. A bright and ambitious man who knows the ins and out of Waystar Royco. However, he is erratic, easily misguided and fiends for affection. Kieran Calkin plays Roman Roy, a self-centred jester trying to prove his worth to his father. Roman scoffs at those he sees to be beneath him and has no respect for anyone other than the all powerful Logan. Shevaun “Shiv” Roy is portrayed by Sarah Snook, the sibling with an actual moral compass — for a Roy. Shiv is often standing at a crossroads and torn between her more progressive nature and the desire to run a murky corporation like Waystar. Then there is the eldest child, Connor Roy who is played by Alan Ruck. He is the sibling stationed at the peripheries of the family business. He is oblivious to his coddled and privileged life, and a self-anointed man of the people. Succession even provides the viewer with their own character representation. Cousin Greg, played by the wonderful Nicholas Braun, acts as the common man’s eyes and ears. He portrays how the average person will feel and react when tossed into the world of private jets, standby chauffeurs and coat holding butlers. He shows sheer fascination and glee at the uber rich bubble of the Roys’ while also shocked and frightened at the lack of empathy displayed.
Succession flirts with the human tendency of being fascinated and drawn to power. Unwritten rules between government and corporations are shown, and the spheres of influence put on display. Vague thoughts are held when it comes to powerful corporations, the back door deals made and their influence on politics. Succession visualises these thoughts and displays them for all to enjoy.
