"Miss Succession: The Righteous Gemstones - An Epic Feuding Family Drama"

"The Righteous Gemstones" and "Succession" may seem different, but they both tackle generational trauma and sibling rivalry. Gemstones is Succession in a funhouse mirror.

If you're looking for a prime example of the battle between form and content, just turn your attention to the TV shows The Righteous Gemstones and Succession. At first glance, these two shows couldn't be more different. Succession, which concluded its momentous run earlier this year and received critical acclaim, was known for its erudite and sophisticated storytelling. It was a trailblazer in the industry and a favorite among award shows. On the other hand, Gemstones, which just got renewed for a fourth season, is often seen as crass, puerile, and not taken seriously by major awards bodies. However, Gemstones has managed to find success in the US, with an average of 5.1 million viewers per episode in its second season, putting it in the same league as Succession. Despite their apparent differences, both shows tackle similar themes such as generational trauma, sibling rivalry, and the corrosive effects of capitalism. In a way, Gemstones can be seen as Succession reflected through a distorted funhouse mirror.

While Succession focuses on the venal and squabbling Roy family, Gemstones follows the equally venal and squabbling Gemstones - a wealthy family of televangelists based in the American South. The stern and inscrutable patriarch, Eli Gemstone (played by John Goodman), is at the helm, while his obnoxious adult children, portrayed by Edi Patterson, Adam DeVine, and Danny McBride (who also created the series), add to the chaos. Gemstones can be seen as a natural progression of McBride's previous collaborations with producer-director Jody Hill, which include the cult TV hits Eastbound & Down and Vice Principals.

What sets Gemstones apart from its predecessors is its ambitious storytelling and the incredible comedic talent on display. The lead actors deliver outstanding performances, fearlessly taking risks in their portrayals. The supporting cast, including the scene-stealing Walton Goggins as the flamboyant preacher "Baby Billy" Freeman, is equally exceptional. This is another aspect Gemstones shares with Jesse Armstrong's Succession - a stellar ensemble cast. In terms of tone, Gemstones couldn't be further from the verbose and pretentious dialogue of Succession. Its characters speak in brash and sexually explicit outbursts. However, if you dig deeper, you'll find common ground beneath the surface.

Both shows delve into the complex dynamics of dysfunctional families and the corrupting influence of wealth and power. They explore the dark underbelly of society, exposing the flaws and contradictions within. While Succession may take a more refined and intellectual approach, Gemstones opts for a more outrageous and irreverent style. Yet, both manage to captivate audiences with their compelling storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

In conclusion, The Righteous Gemstones and Succession may seem like polar opposites, but they share a common thread in their exploration of profound societal issues. Gemstones may be the wilder and more audacious sibling, but it holds its own against the critically acclaimed Succession. Both shows offer a unique and engaging viewing experience, leaving audiences pondering the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power.