Sharp Objects

CW: self-harm, suicideI think it is incredibly telling that this is probably the most mainstream depiction of someone who cuts themselves ever. It's slightly shocking to me that I haven't seen the very obvious parallels drawn between this and Thirteen Reasons Why. Don't get me wrong, suicide is of course more serious than cutting to self-harm, but I firmly believe this does for cutters what Thirteen Reasons Why does for those who are suicidal. This show is the only time I have ever seen cutting scars in mainstream media, and they are portrayed in such a way that is made spectacle. Camille's body is covered in words she has carved into her body over the decades. These words are then the episode titles for series. These words also manifest in fantastical ways throughout the show, for example drawn into the dirt on Camille's car. I think the surreal touches there really sum up how the show treats Camille's body and trauma: as a spectacle for the viewer to indulge in. See Hari Nef's review of Cristiane F. The show also has no problem showing us more creative ways in which an addict cutter will manage to relapse when they are being assisted in staying sober. Sharp Objects as a show has no issue with romanticising cutting yourself. I read the novel back in 2020 and don't have much recollection so can't speak to the book, but this adaptation is ultimately quite disgusting. It does not just romanticise and glamourise cutting yourself but also alcoholism in substitute of cutting yourself. The entire show Camille is drunk, but she rarely appears so. Look, addicts are the best liars and actors, but she rarely seems inhibited at all by her drunkenness which is a lie in itself. She remains a competent reporter. That all said, the show's depiction of complex female family relationships between generations of women is crushing. It is where the show truly excels at times, never shying away from the truthful and the ugly in the lives of the Preaker and Crenell women. Torn on the ending. Fairly shit, but also I can't stop thinking about it and I think that shows how it is an effective way to keep the audience engaged and thoughtful after the show has ended, which is a really wonderful thing.