Does Netflix Romanticize Serial Killers In 'YOU'?
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Swoon

Don't Worry If 'YOU' Still Fancy Serial Killer Joe Goldberg — That's The Point Of The Show

Is Joe Goldberg meant to be a sympathetic character?

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Don't Worry If 'YOU' Still Fancy Serial Killer Joe Goldberg — That's The Point Of The Show
Netflix

SPOILER ALERT!

Those who have seen the show "YOU" can attest to its addictive nature. There is something intriguing about getting into the mind of a serial killer, and seeing how Joe Goldberg is able to manipulate the people around him. Joe is unnervingly skilled at pulling off an innocence even though he's constantly murdering people behind his friends' (and lover's) backs.

Things get even weirder during the second season when he discovers his new love interest is just as bloodthirsty as him, and they continue their Bonnie and Clyde-esque relationship.

Of course, considering the nature of the show, one can wonder whether it, like many other aspects of the media, tends to sensationalize or even romanticize Joe, or stalking in general. And if this is true, it wouldn't be the first time a show or movie has done this.

Often, stalking or other acts that would be seen as creepy in real life are justified in movies as a means of capturing the heart of the one you love.

This show, however, doesn't necessarily seem to follow this path. I think the show is self-aware enough that it wants the audience to understand that Joe's behavior is unhinged and unhealthy, and to some extent, even Joe realizes this. Joe, however, is an unreliable narrator. He will attempt to justify his actions through any means possible if it results in finally being the one he desires. This is why, I think, he will often address his current love interest in his head.

And if at any point you found yourself rooting for Joe to "win," you're definitely not alone. The fact that Joe is seen as a sympathetic character to many is actually a good example of how, in real life, abusers, stalkers, and killers can change the narrative to make them seem like the victim.

We are sympathetic to Joe because we are in his head, following his story, and told things from his warped point of view.

Many people are awaiting the release of the next season, and I for one, am also curious to know who the mysterious woman is that Joe saw through the fence.

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