The Curse Review: Fielder & Safdie Deliver a Disturbingly Imaginative Satire
The Curse is a brilliantly crafted and thought-provoking satire that pushes the boundaries of imagination, leaving viewers unsettled and craving for more
Article Overview
Emma Stone's return to television in Showtime's "The Curse" showcases her eagerness to challenge herself and explore her capabilities in unique and thought-provoking roles.
"The Curse" addresses various relevant social issues, such as white privilege, gentrification, unemployment, and wealth, using a satirical comedy approach that is both uncomfortable and cringe-inducing.
Through the performances of Stone and Nathan Fielder, the main characters, the show explores the deep dissatisfaction and intricate complexities they face, unveiling multiple layers and evolving dynamics that enhance the storytelling.
Emma Stone's television appearances have been limited, but her recent career decisions showcase her desire to challenge herself and demonstrate her capabilities. Stone returns to the small screen in Showtime's The Curse, a series created by Nathan Fielder and Benny Safdie, in which they also co-star. The Curse is certain to make an impact, as evidenced by its highly engaging pilot episode. Fielder and Safdie have built their careers on projects that blend genres and push the boundaries of audience expectations. The series is the result of the unique creativity of these two individuals and serves as a test of determination. The Curse is a powerful show that tackles various issues, including white privilege, gentrification, unemployment, wealth, and other inequalities, all while delivering an uncomfortable but thought-provoking satirical comedy.
In The Curse, Fielder and Stone portray Asher and Whitney Siegel, an unexpected married couple filming their debut show for HGTV. Their series, "Philanthropy," aims to revitalize the rundown community of Española, New Mexico, which is grappling with increased unemployment and gentrification, leading to the displacement of its primarily Black and brown residents. Despite their obvious wealth and privilege, the couple approaches the show with genuine intentions. However, the series director (Safdie) is determined to sensationalize the entire endeavor, stripping away any sincerity or honesty in the process. In the initial episodes, The Curse satirically explores the popular reality trope of affluent individuals helping those less fortunate. As is typical of Fielder, Safdie, and Stone's recent career choices, the narrative takes unexpected and bizarre twists, exposing the couple's facade of a carefree and well-meaning demeanor.
The Curse, featuring Nathan Fielder and Emma Stone, stands apart from Fielder’s previous television endeavors through its emotionally unsettling and somewhat uncomfortable nature. While an ordinary sitcom about aspirational HGTV stars might resort to mocking the duo, Fielder takes a different approach. He infuses each and every moment, as well as the supporting and ancillary characters, with an intense sense of discomfort. The series effectively conveys its message, skillfully utilizing cringe-worthy moments to an extreme degree. Although The Curse may not resonate with everyone, for its target audience, it is bound to be a hugely successful comedy.
The Curse is a thought-provoking series that delves into a wide range of issues encompassing inequality, such as white privilege, gentrification, unemployment, and wealth. While adopting a satirical comedy approach, it manages to bring to light the discomforting truth behind these problems.
At its core, The Curse centers around Whitney and Asher, who grapple with an underlying dissatisfaction within themselves. Despite their genuine aspirations, their condescending demeanor is impossible to overlook. They inhabit the space where they strive to help marginalized communities, but are also aware of their role as oppressors. Fame and career success depend on offering aid to those in need, yet there lingers a darker aspect concealed beneath their polished exterior.
Fielder and Stone skillfully navigate this delicate line, allowing us to acknowledge their inherent goodness while hinting at a hidden darkness. Stone particularly excels at projecting kindness and consideration, yet there is always a sense that something lies just beneath her radiant smile and piercing gaze. As the show progresses, the dynamics between the characters and the actors evolve before our very eyes, unravelling previously hinted-at layers.
Benny Safdie, Emma Stone, and Nathan Fielder star in The Curse
Barkhad Abdi’s presence in the show is just as compelling and indispensable as the main cast. His performance sheds light on Hollywood’s remarkable failure to fully utilize and appreciate hidden talents – those unique individuals with exceptional abilities and natural charm, yet often overlooked in favor of more conventional Hollywood talent. It is impossible to overstate the extent to which Abdi has been underutilized and undervalued since his breakthrough role in Captain Phillips. Therefore, it is truly gratifying to witness the industry finally recognizing and valuing his contributions to a project. Needless to say, Abdi deserves to be cast in numerous productions, as his exceptional talent deserves to be showcased.
The Curse is a captivating and well-crafted show, albeit slightly lengthy in its episode runtimes. It continuously captivates and surprises its audience, refusing to follow a predictable path. Similar to life itself, the show keeps its viewers on their toes. Fielder and Safdie's work will undoubtedly become the talk of the town as viewers delve into the meanings behind specific sequences, analyze the intricate details of the performances, and contemplate the choices made in its filming and storytelling. It is the exceptional craftsmanship and remarkable performances that will solidify The Curse as one of this year's standout television programs.
Scheduled to premiere on Showtime and Paramount+ on November 10, 2023, The Curse will make its on-air debut on Showtime on November 12. The series consists of ten episodes, airing on a weekly basis.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about "The Curse." On the one hand, I appreciate its originality and willingness to push boundaries. The show's satirical take on white privilege, gentrification, unemployment, and wealth is both uncomfortable and thought-provoking. I also enjoy the performances of Emma Stone and Nathan Fielder, who bring depth and nuance to their characters.
On the other hand, I find "The Curse" to be somewhat disturbing and unsettling. The show's use of cringe-worthy moments and dark humor can be off-putting for some viewers. I also think the show could do a better job of balancing its satirical elements with its more dramatic moments.
Overall, I think "The Curse" is a well-made and thought-provoking show that is worth watching. However, I would caution viewers who are sensitive to dark humor or uncomfortable subject matter to proceed with caution.
