This article contains spoilers for Netflix’s BeefIt is believed that the inclusion of Ali Wong and Steven Yeun as the main characters of a show would result in an explosion of comedy as these two come across as a diabolical duo. that of Netflix Beef achieves just that. It may seem like a simple watch focusing on the daily lives of two Asians in America, but in reality, the show has so much to tell. Of course, anything related to A24 is expected to make the viewers reconsider many things, which is also why their productions have received such rave reviews.
Nothing less than genius can be expected from it Beef. A big reason for this is the way the miniseries focuses on real issues. Yes, the show makes Asianness inherent in its plot and characters, but this doesn’t stop it from tapping into some universal issues. If you’re looking for a show that will get you something important, Beef is a must watch.
Classism
A system of social hierarchy may seem like an archaic social structure, but in reality we all live in a society where the binaries of class prevail. Beef takes this to heart and is not afraid to vividly illustrate this class system we are all part of. The major difference between the two protagonists, Amy Lau (Ali Wong) and Danny (Steven Yeun), is one way in which this is achieved. The first is seemingly so wealthy that she’s obsessed with her house being so perfect.
The latter, on the other hand, has trouble making ends meet. Their homes are a clear example of how different their lives are. So it is very ironic when these two collide. Beef gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “when worlds collide”
Billionaire
Maria Bello’s character, Jordan, takes the forefront in representing this theme. Not only is Jordan a billionaire, but her lifestyle is pretty absurd. Her house is in the middle of nowhere. Her dinners are not only lavish, but they are presented in such a way that you are transported to a whole new world. The show is quite sarcastic about this particular character simply because she comes across as “holier than thou”.
Cultural appropriation
Jordan’s obsession with other foreign cultures, especially those from Asia, is quite disturbing. Her house might even remind you of the British Museum and its “stolen property touras she has a display of stolen artifacts, all headwear from different countries. Funnily enough, she takes this obsession to a whole new level when she marries Naomi (Ashley Park). Her use of Naomi as a mere object is hard to ignore, as she is very ignorant of Naomi’s feelings.
Capitalism
Obviously, when a story revolves around America, the theme of capitalism is hard to ignore. Jordan’s wealth comes from her business, Forsters, as well as Amy’s startup company, which focuses on wealthy people, which are the best examples. What’s interesting about the way Beef approaches this theme is that they use Danny’s character to show the effects of capitalism.
Danny’s struggles with buying a house and running his business show how many small opportunities there are for a certain class of people. “Those who thrive will thrive” seems to be a key message the show focuses on.
childhood trauma
As the show progresses, we get a glimpse of Amy’s childhood. It is then revealed that unlike her husband, George Nakai (Joseph Lee), Amy is not from a wealthy family. She built herself up. The show references her childhood trauma a lot, especially bringing in a strange creature watching Amy.
It’s an interesting reminder of how such childhood traumas can carry over into adulthood and in turn affect one’s life. This shot is accompanied by a bit of sadness, giving the viewers more emotional elements to grapple with.
guns
This may seem like a trivial element of the show, but if you look closely, Beef has a strong statement on the gun debate. At one point, we see Amy pleasing herself with her gun. Even though it might come across as a strange scene, it could indicate people’s obsession with firearms. It’s sad to see something so destructive and violent being handled with such ignorance, which is exactly what Beef shows with Amy’s weird “relationship” with her gun.
Art
Art plays an important role throughout the performance. The title cards act as a hint of what the episodes entail. There is also criticism of “fine art” within the show. The way the Nakai family’s artistic creation affects their lives is quite interesting. On the one hand, George’s vases are criticized, while his father’s legacy of chairs are viewed and appreciated, but never sat on.
Then there are Fumi’s (Patti Yasutake) constant comments about the lack of beauty in Amy’s house. All this points to the fact that art is not the comfort it should be, simply because people have preconceived ideas about what art should be. In reality, art is subjective. Funnily enough, Amy’s images on Danny’s car can also be seen as art, and it gives her more comfort than the Nakai family seats.
“Western therapy doesn’t work for eastern minds”
One of the best lines on the show. Danny points this out to George when they hang out. On the one hand we have Danny who refuses to accept that he is depressed and suicidal and on the other hand we have George, a whitewashed Asian, trying to rely on therapy instead of being honest about his feelings. The show heavily criticizes the way many Asians ignore their mental health. At the same time, the show also emphasizes the difference between East and West.
Facade of a “perfect family”
A24
The Nakai family seems perfect. A happy couple with a beautiful daughter, not to mention extremely wealthy. In reality, however, each has its own issues and there is an obvious lack of communication between Amy and George. It’s like the two are living a double life.
Amy’s “beef” with Danny acts as a source of happiness, while George’s relationship with Mia, Amy’s employee, acts as an escape from the lack of emotions he finds in his relationship. This ultimately causes a huge rift within the family. It’s interesting to see how Beef uses an Asian family to focus on bottling up emotions and hiding the true self.
Loneliness
We’re all lonely, and that’s something Beef trying to tell us. Yes, it’s sad, but in the end it’s the truth. Almost all of the characters on the show have a hard time building real human connections. That is why they end up feigning their happiness and living a double life. However, Danny and Amy appear to have broken this curse by the end of the show.
Their “beef” eventually allows them to develop a genuine bond based simply on their shared experiences and feelings. In a way, Beef‘s beautiful ending reminds us how genuine human connections can help us feel less lonely.