Recently, there has been a mass of controversy flying around Netflix due to the production of the TV series, "13 Reasons Why" and the documentary movie trailer "To the Bone."
One of the reasons for controversy is due to scenes in either production deemed too triggering or for the reported glorification that either production presents. Despite these issues, these productions must be created in order to make any change in the views of these topics in our current society.
Controversy is defined as something that can cause a disagreement or argument when talked about or brought up, in this instance the argument is centered on whether or not Netflix should have these types of productions on their channel where anyone can just watch.
Yet, there is another argument constantly going on, on that is far more important than trigger warnings. There is the argument about bullying, the argument about the legitimacy of a mental illness, the argument about the meat packing industry (I am referring to "Okja", another movie brought out by Netflix); heck there's still an argument about whether it is okay to have a non-binary gender or whether it is okay to be LGBTQA.
The fact is, there should not even be an argument on these topics but there still is. Bullying should not happen anymore, period. Mental illnesses exist, they are real, they are devastating, and the people who suffer from them deserve affordable treatment and help, period.
Any animals within the meat packing district deserve to be free range so that animal can have a good life before being used for food; that animal does not deserve to be stuffed in a cage, or beaten, or abused.
And being anything is okay!. As long as your beliefs and way of life does not hurt others or give them any less right as a human being! This should not still be an argument! But it is, these are still unsolved controversial arguments. This is why it is important for popular sources like Netflix to bring them to light.
Another issue with the Netflix vs. controversial show issues is that many viewers have accused the producers and cast of not doing proper research prior to creating their productions. On the contrary, with "13 Reasons Why," Selena Gomez and the other producers did extensive homework on the hot button issues, ensuring their production would be as accurate as possible.
Moreover, in the Netflix movie "To the Bone", the cast starred Lily Collins, an actress who had personally suffered from anorexia as well as the producers reaching out to a charity for eating disorders prior to writing anything to make sure that the movie would demonstrate how it feels to have an eating disorder and how this type of mental illness can be so emotionally destructive.
Collins herself described the movie's importance in an online article, "There's never been a feature film about eating disorders before and it was a challenging role, but I feel very strongly about doing it" (Collins, Metro.co.uk). Again, bringing these issues to light, it is so important that viewers learn and understand about these matters. Some critics also mention how the shows seem to make light of eating disorders or romanticizing suicide.
For those who don't know what this means, it would be like saying, "I think suicidal people are angels who just want to go home" or wearing a t-shirt with "My life goal is to have a psychiatric disorder named after me", which in case you haven't guessed yet, is not okay.
Mental illnesses aren't fun or beautiful, they are horrible, scary, emotional battlefields that take place in a person's mind, not some cute quirk that makes them interesting or unique. Therefore, it is very important when bringing a subject like mental illness to life on a screen that the writers don't accidentally portray it as something light-hearted.
The producers did not create these productions with the intention of glorifying mental illnesses, that message is clear when shown in the explicit scenes of the series/movie.
Another important aspect is that sources like Netflix, Facebook, YouTube, Snapchat, or Instagram may not appeal to the older generation, but it is one of the best ways to teach millennials and future generations about mental illnesses and eating disorders as well as the signs, warnings, and effects of each.
The truth is, this generation is not going to sit and watch an hour-long TV series documentary about the dangers of anorexia. Even if it is a required assignment, they just aren't. They will read through the quick description and get on with their lives.
However, millennials may be more willing to watch the same series with a story line, lovable characters and a setting all that is relatable to them. This is the best way my generation can create a movement: even if the story is fictional, bullying to the point of suicide still exists and it needs to be changed.
I will agree with one thing, Netflix needs to put a trigger warning on some of its shows. I learned this watching "Okja," great movie, but can be explicit especially for younger viewers (i.e. my dog and little sister).
At times, a description is not enough to forewarn viewers about what they are about to watch. However, as far as watching a series, such as "13 Reasons Why" and knowing prior to watching said series that it could be triggering for you. If it is too much, don't watch it. I have not seen "13 Reasons Why", for that same reason and though I have heard it's a great series, I know I'm missing much, nor am I putting myself in a great deal of danger.
If you do suffer from a mental illness, or have been bullied, or have an eating disorder, or have made an attempt on your life, but you still want to watch the series; I urge you not to watch it alone. Watch it with someone who knows about these issues (friend, family, trustworthy FWB), who understands and is supportive.
If it becomes too triggering, please do not be afraid to turn it off, it's okay! I don't want any of you lovely readers getting upset or hurt because of some good reviews on a TV show.
However, please understand that these issues are real, these issues happen every. Single. Day. And although these shows are full of mixed reviews, Netflix should not stop producing these shows, until the argument gets dissolved and the bullying stops.