Critique of 'Emily in Paris' as a misogynist fantasy lacking depth
A review of Netflix's 'Emily in Paris' (2020) contends that it offers a narrow, misogynistic perspective on young women, relegating its main character to mere stereotypes. An American living in Paris, interviewed by BBC Scotland, identified several issues, such as poor writing, uninspired dialogue, and a white-washed, xenophobic depiction of the city. Emily is perceived as relatable solely to young, white viewers, and is criticized for her arrogance and entitlement. The production team is accused of favoring commercial gain over meaningful character development. The critique references Hilary Mantel's 2013 talk on Kate Middleton and Tiqqun's 1999 essay 'Preliminary Materials for a Theory of the Young Girl,' urging for a more nuanced, introspective Emily in the second season.
Key facts
- The Netflix series 'Emily in Paris' premiered in 2020.
- The author is an American living in Paris who critiqued the show for BBC Scotland.
- The show is criticized for misogynist characterizations and poor writing.
- Emily is portrayed as relatable only to young, white, sheltered viewers.
- Producers are accused of prioritizing commercial success over artistic integrity.
- References include Hilary Mantel's 2013 lecture and Tiqqun's 1999 polemic.
- Andrea Long Chu's 2019 book 'Females' is mentioned in the critique.
- A scene in episode 3 shows Emily nearly rejecting the need to be liked before being validated by a male character.
Entities
Artists
- Moyra Davey
- Hilary Mantel
- Andrea Long Chu
- John Bunyan
- Carrie Bradshaw
- Don Draper
- Kate Middleton
- Christian
Institutions
- Netflix
- BBC Scotland
- London Review of Books
- Tiqqun
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Scotland
- Normandy
- London