The Unfulfilled Promise of Ryan Murphy’s Latest Collaboration

Ryan Murphy is no stranger to pushing boundaries in his television productions. His shows often court controversy and spark heated debate among audiences. So, it’s perhaps surprising that his latest collaboration with Bret Easton Ellis, The Shards, feels like a misfire.

Murphy and Ellis are known for their fascination with the darker aspects of human nature and their willingness to challenge societal norms in their work. However, their synergy is ultimately stifled by the duo’s vastly different creative visions. Murphy’s maximalist approach prioritizes spectacle over substance, while Ellis prefers minimalism, letting characters’ inner worlds speak for themselves.

The Tensions Between Visionary and Provocateur

In The Shards, this tension between styles is palpable. Opulent production design and elaborate set pieces clash with the more subdued, character-driven drama that underpins the story. This is particularly evident in the casting choices, which add a layer of pseudo-incestuous twinge to characters’ relationships.

Kaia Gerber and Homer Gere’s presence serves as both a nostalgic nod to their parents’ past fame and a marketing gimmick. The show’s focus on style over substance undermines the more nuanced character studies that Ellis brings to the table. This is a shame, given The Shards’ potential as a compelling period drama.

A Misunderstood Generation

At its core, The Shards explores the transition from youth to adulthood in the early 80s. However, this theme is constantly at odds with the show’s own indulgent tendencies. The setting – Los Angeles in 1981 – is rich with cultural touchstones and historical significance, from the rise of the video era to the decline of New Hollywood’s auteur-driven heyday.

A Disappointing Collaboration

Ultimately, The Shards feels like a missed opportunity for Murphy and Ellis to create something innovative. Instead, the show is mired in its own contradictions, torn between excess and restraint. This collaboration highlights the increasingly homogenized and self-indulgent nature of modern television, where streaming platforms prioritize churning out content over taking risks.

As audiences eagerly await the next season of Succession or the latest instalment in the Stranger Things saga, it’s worth remembering that even the most tantalizing collaborations can be a recipe for disaster.