13 Reasons Why: Unpopular opinion of the day.
You know, all I have been hearing is that 13 reasons why should be cancelled. I have heard so much criticism about the violent nature and disturbing scenes, especially in the final episode.
I am not ignorant. I am aware that some people may find triggers within the show, but the writers placed a content warning, the writers asked people to sit and watch this show with loved one or someone who they could talk to. I am also aware that this is not always the case.
In my personal opinion, people don’t like what they can’t understand. Also, some people, in my experience, choose to ignore issues such as those raised in 13 reasons why because they would rather not talk about them and some would rather pretend like these issues didn’t exist in high schools.
But, it’s important. It’s so important. The show is not supposed to be an easy watch, it’s supposed to make you uncomfortable, maybe its even supposed to make you sad. It tries to make the world aware that mental health isn’t just a party trick, that its something that needs to be talked about.
In response to the heavy sexual assault and rape content, it shows that it happens to girls AND boys. By saying ‘we don’t want to see that’ or ‘its disgusting’, its telling victims that what happened to them was disgusting and that people don’t want to hear about it. The show through Jessica’s journey especially shows what it is like for some girls who feel scared and trapped, who feel like they won’t be believed. Which is reinforced by the shott sentenced for Bryce. As for Tyler, I think it was very brave of the show to take that step and highlight male sexual assault.
I love 13 reasons why because it doesn’t shy away from hard topics that other shows cover in fairy dust. I, personally, do not think it fantasises suicide as a lot of posts have said in the press this week. If anything, it shows the effects of suicide on loved ones, and character such as Clay shows that someone does care, you just have to find them. Which is easier said than done, I am aware of that too.
I think this show causes a lot of chaos because its close to home. Whereas shows such as Game of Thrones, which also details rape, is harder to relate too. 13 Reasons why is not for everyone, but I personally believe these issues needed to be talked about, because its shows like these that start a conversation.
#unpopularopinionoftheday