Last week, the introductory episode of Coven did a pretty
strong job at easing us in to this new anthological era. Characters were
introduced, the tone and thematics teased and the perils of witchcraft and
voodoo were merely suggested. This week Boy Parts delves a little deeper and in the process highlights the pros and cons of the shows' characterisation.
As of last week we were introduced to Madison, Zoe, Queenie
and Nan. These four young witches, each with an individual power, are housed at
Miss Robichaux’s School for Exceptional Young Ladies, supervised by Cordelia
and her mother Fiona, otherwise known as the ‘Supreme’. Following the death of multiple frat boys, of which Madison and Zoe are accountable, police investigation is rife, in addition to the witchly resurrection of a murdered frat boy named Kyle (Evan Peters). Elsewhere Fiona questions the immortality of
previously buried Madame LaLaurie, only to discover it was a
punishment from the powerful voodoo Priestess, Marie Laveau (Angela Bassett).
Structurally speaking, narrative developments are progressed
rather well this week, specifically through strategic flashbacks and detailed
dialogue. These intermittent moments increasingly reveal the confrontational
history between Marie, LaLaurie, witchcraft and voodoo. Yet, this well thought
out narrativisation is partly undermined by one or two interjectory moments, that fragment the whole episodic experience. Cordelia’s issues with fertility (in
addition to the snake-and-fire-pit love scene) felt totally out of place and Misty’s
(Lily Rabe) connection to the story was a little forced. Similarly the
resurrection of Kyle, whilst undoubtedly paving a parable regarding the dangers
of supernaturally inducing life, fell flat and underwhelming. No amount of gore
and dismembered body parts could make the scene as exciting as it was no doubt
intended. For this, I have to posit a somewhat
damning theory. As it stands, the young witches are not compelling and likable
characters. Their youthful sensibility renders a demure quality which
ultimately sacrifices interest. Nor does it help, that they are overshadowed by
what has to be Boy Parts’ biggest feat – one that will no doubt remain
throughout the entirety of this series.
I am of course referring to the three powerhouse females of
Fiona, LaLaurie and Laveau. Given the unfolding history between
witchcraft and voodoo practices, hinted at throughout Boy Parts, the beginning of a compelling dynamic is formed. Pulling each performance out of the bag, Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates and Bassett render
these strong characters immediately likable. Their confrontational histories,
strong personalities and latent desires for revenge, immortality and the welfare
of their families, center the dynamic. This teamed with magnificently dark,
bitchy but comical demeanours (credit also due here to the shows’
scriptwriters) creates a wonderful chemistry that overshadows any sense of
pubescent teen-drama.
Over time, the young witches may develop into something
more. Until then, Boy Parts - whilst a little fractured and shedding unkind truths
on our young protagonists – foregrounds the beginning of an almighty trio that
is sure to cast a spell on any viewer.
What are your thoughts on this week's episode? Do you agree with my thoughts on the younger characters of the show? Post a comment!
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