BY: Isadora Nicolai
Everyone is watching and everyone is talking about it. “Euphoria” is the new TV show of the moment. Sam Levinson’s creation gives a realistic perspective of adolescence, drug abuse, mental health and other polemic topics. As stated by many viewers, “Euphoria” can be a very triggering show for those who have extreme anxiety, depression or a past with any sort of substance abuse, so you should be cautious while watching it if you’ve dealt with these issues.
The story revolves around the main character Rue, played by Zendaya, and her group of friends while they go through experiences in high school. Rue is a fresh-out-of-rehab recovering drug addict who’s trying to find her path in life when she meets Jules (Hunter Schafer), a new girl that just moved to town. As season one goes, we see their relationship development and involvement with other characters who are presented to us: Nate Jacobs (Jacob Elordi), a jock with anger management issues and insecurities towards his sexuality; Maddy (Alexa Demie), his girlfriend and their extremely toxic relationship; and her friends: Kat (Barbie Ferreira), Cassie (Sydney Sweeney) and Lexi (Maude Apatow), who also face insecurities about their own bodies or personalities. You will also be introduced to lovable drug dealer Fezco (Angus Cloud) and his little brother Ashtray (Javon Walton).
The show promises glitter, crazy scenes that will give you the feeling of being on same the drugs that the characters are using and lots of drama. The difference between “Euphoria” and other teenage high school shows that also revolve around sex, drugs and drama is that “Euphoria” does not romanticize the substance abuse. Instead, Sam Levinson was spot-on in showing the highs and lows of substance abuse with shocking scenes of what drugs really do to you. At the same time that the show will make you want to go on a trip with Rue while she is on a substance high, it will subsequently terrorize you because it shows the consequences of this abuse.
The plot is brilliantly tied up and manages to combine several topics, from the LGBTQ+ community to body image, toxic relationships and drug abuse. Zendaya’s brilliant performance can’t fail to be mentioned- the perfect impersonation of a recovering drug addict that brings depth and a lot of emotion to the show. It is definitely a must-watch.
The show has currently has two seasons with eight episodes each. Season One aired in 2019, and Season Two finished streaming the last episode on February 27. The show has already been confirmed for Season Three, but this next part won’t air until 2024. Meanwhile, all that’s left for the “Euphoria” fans is to theorize what will happen to Rue and her friends, but there’s also enough time to rewatch it all over and over.
