Martin Carr reviews the third episode of The Boys season 1…
If Superman started ripping out body parts rather than locking up criminals people might notice. On the other hand if landlords had their heads burst like a melon, whilst accepting sexual bribes from money strapped female tenants chances are nothing happens. Those and other double standards get an airing in The Boys this episode, as that polished media friendly exterior begins peeling off.
What remains central to this adaptation is still unclear as numerous arenas of society are under fire. Motives are foggy while friendships, old flames and work colleagues are fast becoming the same thing. There is murder, kidnapping and some essential organ disposal which breaks the ice. Vought and their extended family pander to public whims, smile for an ever present camera whilst bickering in private. Their heroes little more than models for merchandising who are filmed fighting crime whilst media outlets wait in the wings.
Elsewhere status brings its own pressures forcing some to enhance an already superhuman foundation. Money, fame and attention is more addictive for others than the methods they use to get there. That this society is stagnant should surprise no one nor the fact that information is doctored, outcomes arranged and rivalries orchestrated. Think WWF with real powers, no conscience and global influence. This cynicism bleeds through every frame layering that bitter truth with sordid sexual snippets, callously self-indulgent characters and a pitch black humour.
Only in the quiet moments between body parts, convention appearances and ludicrous road races do we see a softer side developing. Trapped on the inside and looking out is Vought’s newest recruit who represents a blond, blue eyed American idea of purity. Within minutes of arrival she is already tarnished, disillusioned and looking for an out. Elsewhere a man is crushed by grief, repressing emotional instability and detonating unpleasant examples of enhanced humanity. These two romantics are the least unbalanced amongst a cast of characters with serious problems.
What is most interesting about The Boys three episodes in is not the satire, social commentary or body parts in a blender décor but those shades of grey. These anti-heroes might be wearing red, white and blue in some cases but their darkness is beginning to define them. Manipulated like marionettes these corporate mouthpieces are resentful, resourceful and in some cases royally pissed off. Think of everyone else more or less the same but without the money, support network or borderline nihilism.
Martin Carr
