13 Reasons Why: Proceed with Caution
You've probably caught wind of the latest Netflix original series phenomenon: 13 Reasons Why.
The 13 episode series is based on a young adult novel (a work of fiction), and it's stirring up a lot of controversy and conjuring quite a bit of buzz. Selena Gomez, who has famously spoken out about the importance of learning about mental health issues, was so inspired by the story that she became a producer on the show. After watching, most have recommended "viewer discretion advised." Gruesome scenes as well as sexual violence are present, so sit this one out if that might cause distress for you. And definitely think twice, Ericka Andersen of the Federalist warns, before allowing your child or teen to tune in.
With that important disclaimer in mind, please stop reading this article if you intend to watch the show. A few spoilers are ahead.
Before 17-year-old high school student Hannah Baker takes her own life, she diligently records 13 tapes explaining why she did so. Each tape addresses a particular person in her life who she believes pushed her to the edge and caused her to carry out the gruesome act. When the tapes are distributed, the 13 individuals accused are desperate to keep them under wraps.
The typical ingredients for teen hardships are all there: rejection from her crush, friends stabbing her in the back, bullying and made up tales about her sexuality. This standard teenage drama builds and builds until eventually several more serious traumatic events occur, surrounding Hannah in a cloud of self-doubt and a grim new outlook on life. Feeling as though no one is on her side or cares enough to save her life, she goes through with slitting her wrists.
The show is clearly based on the fact that Hannah blames everyone else for her suicide, never really admitting that she too could have saved herself rather than waiting to be saved. Many viewers are convinced that the message of the show is cut and dry: if you do not see the signs and intervene, you are to blame when someone ends their life. Others say that this is not the takeaway, and that the author and producers are simply trying to get people to pay better attention, watch for signs, and help someone when you can.
“It’s a message against bullying, spreading rumors, and certainly, against rape.”
Please share your thoughts in the comments section below. What do you think the show hopes to achieve?