‘Succession’ Sticks the Landing

Michael Clark Staff Reporter

There was never any doubt that HBO’s “Succession” would have an excellent series finale. While Jesse Armonstrong’s magnum opus started off a bit slow, once the ball got rolling, it never slowed down. It’s now safe to say there was never a weak episode in the entire series. As Kendall Roy himself would say, it’s “all bangers, all the time.” The series finale is no different, delivering a hauntingly satisfying conclusion to the best show in recent memory. Season 4 as a whole has been a fantastic season of television, properly shaking up the story and taking these characters to places you’d never expect for them to go. While some of these shifts are rather abrupt and jarring, it’s easy to buy into these choices because of how well the actors portray them. Through a series of small expressions on Jeremy Strong’s face, you can perfectly understand some of the shocking decisions he makes in the final episodes.

The standout in terms of acting has to be Kieran Culkin, who gives Roman Roy so much personality and range that it’s unbelievable. He can be cocky and arrogant in one scene and shockingly pitiful in the next. Each and every actor brings their A-game to this series. These are characters you love to hate, but also hate to love. Because deep down, each character is lovable in their own, bizarre way.

Thankfully, the final episode manages to give each character their flowers and the ending they deserve. It’s more bitter than sweet, but it manages to spin that sadness in a way that makes sense for each storyline as a perfectly natural conclusion. There is a twist that may feel contrived, but it makes sense upon rewatch. The final 10 minutes of the episode are perhaps some of the most tense and heartbreaking in recent memory.

“Succession” would not be what it is without its outstanding music and cinematography. Nicholas Britell has orchestrated one of the greatest theme songs of all time, and the score is on point through each and every scene. The cinematography is subtle but worth studying, many shots are loaded with symbolism and gorgeous visuals. For example, whenever a character is losing power in a scene, they may move further away from the camera or go out of focus. Little details like these make the show infinitely rewatchable.

All of this is hardly mentioning that “Succession” is a comedy, and somehow juggles a hearty dose of humor alongside all of its serious and bitter moments. This show is downright laugh-outloud hilarious at times. With brilliant one liners, insults and complicated analogies, when you aren’t at the edge of your seat, you’ll surely be laughing.

At the end of the day, Succession has secured itself as one of the greatest shows of all time. It’s hilarious, harrowing and heartbreaking from start to finish. If you haven’t given it a watch already, this summer break may be the perfect time to check out this fantastic show.