Netflix has revolutionized how we consume television, offering everything from lighthearted comedies to heavy-hitting dramas and documentaries. But some of its most talked-about shows have sparked intense debates—drawing criticism for their content, themes, or depictions of sensitive issues. Yet despite their controversial nature, these series continue to captivate audiences around the world.
In this blog post, we dive into some of the most polarizing Netflix series—13 Reasons Why, The Politician, Cuties, and Elite—and explore why, despite the backlash, they remain important pieces of pop culture. Spoiler alert: These shows aren't just scandalous; they might actually offer something worth your time.
1. 13 Reasons Why: The Dark Side of Teen Suicide
When 13 Reasons Why debuted in 2017, it became an instant sensation—and a lightning rod for controversy. Based on Jay Asher’s novel, the show follows the aftermath of Hannah Baker’s suicide, which she explains in a series of recorded cassette tapes sent to people she blames for her death.
Why it’s controversial:
13 Reasons Why sparked a nationwide conversation about mental health, bullying, and suicide, but not all of it was positive. Critics argued that the series romanticized suicide and may have been triggering for vulnerable viewers, particularly teenagers. The graphic depiction of Hannah’s suicide in the season 1 finale generated widespread concern that it could lead to copycat behaviors, especially among impressionable youth.
Why it’s still worth watching:
Despite the backlash, 13 Reasons Why offers a raw and unfiltered look at the complexities of mental health. It doesn't shy away from the painful realities of bullying, sexual assault, and isolation. For many viewers, the series sparked vital conversations about mental health in schools, homes, and beyond. It’s a dark show, but it serves as a conversation starter—reminding us that these difficult topics deserve attention.
2. The Politician: A Satirical Deep Dive into Power and Ambition
Ryan Murphy’s The Politician is as over-the-top as you would expect from the mind behind Glee and American Horror Story. This dark comedy follows Payton Hobart (Ben Platt), an ambitious high school student who’s dead set on becoming president of the United States—eventually. The show explores his early political career, the cutthroat world of high school elections, and the murky ethics of ambition.
Why it’s controversial:
From its over-the-top performances to its scathing satire of American politics and social issues, The Politician never holds back. The show critiques everything from toxic masculinity and privilege to the lengths people will go to maintain power. It’s unapologetically bold, and some critics found its cynicism and high-level farce uncomfortable. Others called out its portrayal of privilege, questioning whether it was too critical or simply reflecting a reality many don’t want to confront.
Why it’s still worth watching:
The Politician is more than just a satirical romp through the political landscape—it’s a clever commentary on the moral compromises people are willing to make for success. If you can get past the absurdity, the show is a brilliant exploration of ambition, privilege, and identity. The exaggerated performances only serve to highlight the often ridiculous nature of politics, making the show an insightful, albeit dark, social commentary.
3. Cuties: The Movie That Divided the Internet
Released in 2020, Cuties (French: Mignonnes) caused an uproar online before many even had a chance to watch it. The French film, directed by Maïmouna Doucouré, follows an 11-year-old girl named Amy as she joins a dance troupe to rebel against her conservative upbringing. The film tackles issues of sexuality, identity, and the pressures of modern culture on young girls.
Why it’s controversial:
The controversy surrounding Cuties stemmed from the film’s promotional materials, which some perceived as exploitative of young girls. Critics accused the film of sexualizing minors by showcasing overly sexualized dance routines. Many took to social media to condemn the film without even watching it, calling it child exploitation.
Why it’s still worth watching:
Despite the controversy, Cuties is an undeniably powerful film. It does not glorify the sexualization of children; rather, it critiques the hypersexualization that exists in modern media, especially when it comes to how young girls are portrayed. The film is a nuanced exploration of cultural expectations, social media, and growing up in a world where self-worth is often tied to appearance. While the film's approach may be uncomfortable at times, it’s a bold commentary on the pressures young girls face today. For those who can look beyond the initial shock value, Cuties is a complex, thought-provoking piece of cinema.
4. Elite: High School Drama with a Dark Edge
Why it’s controversial:
Elite has often been criticized for its portrayal of sex, violence, and the complicated relationships between the students. It regularly pushes the boundaries of what’s acceptable on-screen, with explicit depictions of everything from drug use to sexual assault. The show also deals with themes of class disparity, homophobia, and misogyny—topics that can make some viewers uncomfortable.
Why it’s still worth watching:
Though Elite can be provocative, it also provides a sharp critique of societal divisions, privilege, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The drama is more than just a flashy teen soap opera; it’s a nuanced look at how far people will go to maintain their social standing and get what they want. The characters, while often morally gray, are multi-dimensional, and the plot twists keep viewers on the edge of their seats. For fans of addictive teen dramas with a dark twist, Elite is hard to beat.
Conclusion: Art, Culture, and the Power of Controversy
What ties all of these controversial Netflix series together is their ability to provoke conversation. Whether they explore taboo subjects like suicide, identity, or sexualization, or they simply satirize the world of politics and privilege, these shows are more than just entertainment—they’re cultural touchstones. They challenge us to question societal norms, reflect on our values, and grapple with uncomfortable truths.
While it’s easy to dismiss controversial shows as scandalous or exploitative, it's important to remember that art—whether in the form of TV shows, movies, or books—often serves to push boundaries, reflect societal issues, and provoke deeper thought. These Netflix series, despite their flaws, offer powerful commentary on modern life, making them worth watching for those who can approach them with an open mind.
At the end of the day, controversial media forces us to confront hard topics, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need to move forward.
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