Does Netflix Romanticize Serial Killers In 'YOU'? | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Swoon

Don't Worry If 'YOU' Still Fancy Serial Killer Joe Goldberg — That's The Point Of The Show

Is Joe Goldberg meant to be a sympathetic character?

34
Don't Worry If 'YOU' Still Fancy Serial Killer Joe Goldberg — That's The Point Of The Show
Netflix

SPOILER ALERT!

Those who have seen the show "YOU" can attest to its addictive nature. There is something intriguing about getting into the mind of a serial killer, and seeing how Joe Goldberg is able to manipulate the people around him. Joe is unnervingly skilled at pulling off an innocence even though he's constantly murdering people behind his friends' (and lover's) backs.

Things get even weirder during the second season when he discovers his new love interest is just as bloodthirsty as him, and they continue their Bonnie and Clyde-esque relationship.

Of course, considering the nature of the show, one can wonder whether it, like many other aspects of the media, tends to sensationalize or even romanticize Joe, or stalking in general. And if this is true, it wouldn't be the first time a show or movie has done this.

Often, stalking or other acts that would be seen as creepy in real life are justified in movies as a means of capturing the heart of the one you love.

This show, however, doesn't necessarily seem to follow this path. I think the show is self-aware enough that it wants the audience to understand that Joe's behavior is unhinged and unhealthy, and to some extent, even Joe realizes this. Joe, however, is an unreliable narrator. He will attempt to justify his actions through any means possible if it results in finally being the one he desires. This is why, I think, he will often address his current love interest in his head.

And if at any point you found yourself rooting for Joe to "win," you're definitely not alone. The fact that Joe is seen as a sympathetic character to many is actually a good example of how, in real life, abusers, stalkers, and killers can change the narrative to make them seem like the victim.

We are sympathetic to Joe because we are in his head, following his story, and told things from his warped point of view.

Many people are awaiting the release of the next season, and I for one, am also curious to know who the mysterious woman is that Joe saw through the fence.

Follow Swoon on Instagram.

Report this Content
Does anybody know how to study
Gurl.com

It’s here; that time of year when college students turn into preschoolers again. We cry for our mothers, eat everything in sight, and whine when we don’t get our way. It’s finals, the dreaded time of the semester when we all realize we should have been paying attention in class instead of literally doing anything else but that. Everyone has to take them, and yes, unfortunately, they are inevitable. But just because they are here and inevitable does not mean they’re peaches and cream and full of rainbows. Surviving them is a must, and the following five phases are a reality for all majors from business to art, nursing to history.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

How To Prepare For The Library: Finals Edition

10 ways to prepare for finals week—beginning with getting to the library.

2318
How To Prepare For The Library: Finals Edition
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

It’s that time of year again when college students live at the library all week, cramming for tests that they should have started studying for last month. Preparing to spend all day at the library takes much consideration and planning. Use these tips to help get you through the week while spending an excessive amount of time in a building that no one wants to be in.

Keep Reading...Show less
girl roommates
StableDiffusion

Where do we begin when we start talking about our roommates? You practically spend every moment with them, they become your second family and they deal with you at your best and at your absolute worst. They are there to make you laugh just a little harder, cry a little less and make each day a little better. We often forget to thank them for the little things that they do to make college even a tiny bit easier and more fun. This list of 26 things are what you should thank your roommates for right this minute and every day that you live with them.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

20 Thoughts While Studying For Finals

I may or may not be stressing right now.

2610
Thoughts While Studying For Finals
StableDiffusion


That time of the semester has arrived once again, finals. The worst week ever. Who thought it was a good idea for all your classes to have exams all in the same week? Definitely not me. Here's 20 thoughts you may have studying for finals.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Disney magic for New Year!

The "Happiest Place on Earth" has a lot of characters with some pretty great advice.

7336
Disney magic kingdom castle on new years
StableDiffusion

Disney movies are well known and very popular in today's world. Although many people appreciate the plot and the storyline, not many people appreciate the wisdom these characters possess. Every Disney movie has unique advice that can be applied to everyday life. Here are 11 Disney quotes to help start your New Year off right:

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments